Hadef & Partners Company Profile

Background

Founded in 1980 by Dr. Hadef Al Dhaheri, Hadef & Partners is a leading independent law firm in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). With over 40 years of experience, the firm has grown alongside the UAE, providing comprehensive legal services to local, regional, and international clients, including government entities. The firm's mission is to promote progress, advance ambition, and create confidence by delivering bespoke legal advice that ensures clients remain one step ahead. Hadef & Partners is recognized for its deep understanding of the UAE's legal landscape, traditions, and business environment, making it a trusted advisor in the region.

Key Strategic Focus

Hadef & Partners offers a full spectrum of legal services across various sectors, including banking and finance, corporate and commercial, dispute resolution, employment, engineering and construction, intellectual property, maritime, transport and trade, real estate, regulatory and government advisory, and corporate tax. The firm's strategic focus is on providing highly specialized legal advice tailored to the dynamic UAE market. By maintaining offices exclusively in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, Hadef & Partners ensures localized expertise while offering a broad perspective on the UAE's legal landscape. The firm is often entrusted with advising on pioneering, complex, and strategic projects, transactions, and cases, reflecting its commitment to excellence and innovation.

Financials and Funding

As a privately held law firm, Hadef & Partners does not publicly disclose its financial information or funding history. The firm's growth and expansion over the past four decades indicate a strong financial foundation and a successful business model.

Pipeline Development

Hadef & Partners has been involved in several landmark projects and legal developments in the UAE, including:

First Initial Public Offering (IPO): Advised on the incorporation of Abu Dhabi Ship Building PJSC and its IPO, marking the first of its kind in the UAE.

Establishment of the First Islamic Bank: Assisted in the creation of Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank PJSC through a public offering.

First Offset Project: Provided counsel on the UAE Armed Forces' Offset Programme, creating economic opportunities in the private sector.

First Independent Water and Power Plant (IWPP): Acted on the Fujairah 1 IWPP, one of the largest operating hybrid desalination plants globally.

Reclassification of Saadiyat Island: Advised the Abu Dhabi government on transforming Saadiyat Island into a cultural and residential hub.

Drafting of UAE Space Law: Contributed to the creation of the UAE Space Law, the first of its kind in the Middle East.

Introduction of Corporate Tax System: Assisted in drafting the UAE Corporate Taxation Legal Framework, leading to the implementation of a federal corporate tax on business profits.

These milestones underscore the firm's role in shaping the UAE's legal and economic landscape.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Hadef & Partners leverages its deep understanding of the UAE's legal system and its commitment to innovation to provide cutting-edge legal solutions. The firm's diverse team of lawyers, trained and practiced in both Western and Middle Eastern jurisdictions, brings a wealth of experience and perspectives. This diversity enables the firm to employ a range of scientific methodologies and proprietary technologies tailored to the unique needs of their clients. While specific technological platforms are not publicly disclosed, the firm's consistent recognition and involvement in complex projects suggest a strong emphasis on innovation and technological advancement.

Leadership Team

Hadef & Partners' leadership comprises seasoned professionals with extensive experience:

Dr. Hadef Al Dhaheri, Founding Partner: Established the firm in 1980 and served as the UAE's Minister of Justice from 2008 to 2014.

Dr. Faraj Ahnish, Founding Partner: Responsible for a wide range of matters, including government and commercial work, as well as selective commercial litigation and arbitration.

Sadiq Jafar, Managing Partner: Brings extensive corporate and commercial law experience, particularly in inward investment, joint ventures, banking and finance, energy and infrastructure, and mergers and acquisitions.

Their combined expertise and leadership have been instrumental in the firm's growth and success.

Leadership Changes

In 2023, Hadef & Partners unveiled an enhanced brand identity to reflect the firm's evolution and reaffirm its commitment to excellence. This strategic move was led by the firm's leadership, including Dr. Faraj Ahnish and Sadiq Jafar, signaling a new era for the firm while maintaining its core values.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The UAE's legal market is characterized by a mix of international law firms and strong local firms. Hadef & Partners, as the largest UAE-only firm, holds a significant position in this competitive landscape. The firm's deep local knowledge and comprehensive service offerings provide a competitive edge in the market.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors include international law firms with a presence in the UAE, such as Allen & Overy, Clifford Chance, and Baker McKenzie. These firms offer a broad range of services and have extensive global networks. However, Hadef & Partners' deep-rooted presence in the UAE and its understanding of local laws and customs position it uniquely to serve clients seeking specialized local expertise.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Hadef & Partners collaborates with various international law firms and professional service providers to offer seamless services across jurisdictions. These collaborations enable the firm to provide comprehensive legal solutions to clients with cross-border needs, ensuring a cohesive approach to complex legal matters.