Galadari aims to strengthen GCC-Asia relations

The development of the legal and financial framework of Dubai has been crucial in opening the market to the rest of the world. Among the champions of this cause is law firm Galadari, whose new challenge is to fulfil a bigger vision - help strengthen the UAE-Asia trade relations.

"The UAE has always been in the business of business. Long before the union of the Emirates in 1971, this area of the Arabian Peninsula has always been a centre for trade and commerce," says the firm's chairman Ziad Galadari. "It has an indelible history of merchant commerce and entrepreneurship. It is therefore of no surprise that the country continues to develop its trade links and treaties with international partners."

Galadari went against the grain when he established the law firm in 1981. In addition to pursuing the Galadari Group's legacy in businesses spanning industries from engineering to tourism, he aspired to contribute more to Dubai's development by making a difference in the legal system.

Galadari has risen among the Middle East's oldest and largest law firms. Leveraging its position as a part of the Galadari family, which helped shape the commercial development of the peninsula for centuries, it provides in-depth understanding of the region's legal policies and issues.

Led by a team of more than 70 lawyers, Galadari delivers services to local and international clients across corporate, banking, construction, maritime and other sectors. It is trusted by government entities and has provided Dubai legal and financial counsel through sovereign bond and development of the free zones among other issues. It also advised the government on the restructuring of aviation and port facilities, which progressed to become the Dubai World Central project.

"Dubai is always looking for alternative means to develop the city with sustainability and longevity," says Rosanna Chopra, Galadari business development director. "Ziad Galadari and the firm have a critical role in making developments such as Dubai World Central happen, having the legal perspective that guides decision makers."