Bird & Bird Expands to Riyadh, Targeting Tech Sector

International law firm Bird & Bird has announced the opening of its first office in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, marking its third presence in the Middle East alongside offices in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. This move aligns with the firm's five-year strategy to expand its global footprint and reach €1 billion in revenue by 2029. 

The Riyadh office will focus on technology, intellectual property (IP), and corporate law, sectors that are pivotal to Saudi Arabia's economic diversification efforts under Vision 2030.

Leadership and Expertise

The Riyadh office will be led by Anders Nilsson, Head of Region for the Middle East, operating from Abu Dhabi. 

The resident partners include:

• Raya Alkhatib: A corporate law expert with experience in company formations, mergers and acquisitions, and initial public offerings. Previously, she served as General Counsel at American Express Saudi Arabia. 

• Nick O’Connell: A technology and data specialist, recognised as a leading IT lawyer in Saudi Arabia. He brings extensive experience in regulatory advisory on technology, cloud, data, media, and telecommunications issues. 

• Simon Shooter: A seasoned commercial and technology partner, founder of Bird & Bird’s cybersecurity practice, with a history of advising on tech and IP matters in the region.

The team will be supported by a group of Saudi associate lawyers, ensuring compliance with local regulations that require 70% of a firm's lawyers to be Saudi nationals. 

Aligning with Vision 2030

Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 aims to diversify the economy and develop public service sectors such as health, education, infrastructure, recreation, and tourism. The government's focus on technology and innovation has led to significant investments, including the launch of HUMAIN, a state-backed AI company under the Public Investment Fund. 

Bird & Bird's expertise in technology and IP law positions the firm to support both local and international clients navigating the Kingdom's evolving legal landscape. The firm's global experience, combined with local knowledge, aims to bridge the legal services gap in the rapidly growing tech sector.

Expert Insight

Sunil Ambalavelil, Chairman of Kaden Boriss and an award-winning IP Lawyer in the UAE, commented:

“Bird & Bird's entry into Saudi Arabia is a strategic move. Their focus on technology and IP law can help clients navigate the regulatory landscape and leverage emerging opportunities.”

The Bottom Line

Bird & Bird's establishment of a Riyadh office underscores the firm's commitment to supporting Saudi Arabia's ambitious economic transformation. With a focus on technology, IP, and corporate law, the firm aims to provide comprehensive legal services that align with the Kingdom's Vision 2030 objectives.

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