Akin Gump and Addleshaw Goddard Expand Middle East Presence with New Riyadh and Abu Dhabi Offices

Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld is set to expand its Middle Eastern footprint by opening a new office in Riyadh, marking its third location in the region. The firm has hired Alexander Malahias and Jennifer Riddle, former partners from White & Case, to spearhead this venture, aiming to offer extensive legal services in regulatory, corporate finance, and energy sectors. Meanwhile, Addleshaw Goddard has broadened its presence in the United Arab Emirates with a new office in the Abu Dhabi Global Market, enhancing its capability in serving clients across financial services, energy, and technology sectors. These developments underscore the increasing emphasis on the region amid competitive dynamics catalyzed by Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 plan.