In a notable shift within the Middle Eastern legal sector, Riyadh has experienced a significant growth spurt in lawyer head count, marking a 68% increase over the past year. This rapid expansion has allowed the Saudi capital to overtake Abu Dhabi, becoming the second largest legal hub in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region behind Dubai. While Dubai remains a key player with 57% of the largest law firms’ lawyers, its legal market has seen a 2% decline in numbers according to Law.com International.
Riyadh’s ascension is propelled by a series of large-scale projects and legislative changes enhancing the appeal for international law firms. These include NEOM public-private partnerships, energy ventures, and comprehensive infrastructure projects. Moreover, Saudi Arabia’s Regional Headquarters Programme has incentivized foreign firms looking to secure government contracts. As a result, Riyadh has become a prime destination for international legal expertise in sectors like M&A, project finance, and dispute resolution.
The shift underscores Saudi Arabia’s burgeoning importance in the GCC’s legal landscape, which has historically been dominated by the UAE. For more on this development, you can read the full article on Law.com International.