Norton Rose Fulbright Granted Foreign Law Firm License by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Justice

RIYADH, December 2023 – Global law firm Norton Rose Fulbright has been granted a foreign law firm license by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Justice, in line with the country’s new operating regulations. This license will enable the international law firm to continue providing a full business law service to its clients across Saudi Arabia.

The new office, named Norton Rose Fulbright PLLC, is a joint venture with The Company of Mohammed A. Altammami for Legal Services (LOMAT). The firm announced this new association in April 2023.

The inaugural Riyadh-based partners are Mohammed Altammami, Anwar Ouazzani, Abdulkhaliq Elshayyal, and David Johnston. Supported by 16 lawyers and staff, the firm now has over 110 personnel based in the Middle East.

The foreign law firm license permits the practice of Saudi law, in addition to wider international law capabilities. The Riyadh office comprises bilingual English and Arabic lawyers who are both Saudi and internationally qualified.

Mohammed Paracha, Head of Middle East at Norton Rose Fulbright, commented on the milestone, stating that it marks a new chapter for their wider Middle East practice. He emphasized the importance of this development as Saudi Arabia continues to work towards Vision 2030, introducing a range of government legislative reforms and undertaking its pioneering Giga Projects.

Mohammed Altammami anticipates immense development and increased commercial activity in Saudi Arabia and the wider Middle East region. He expressed confidence in their new joint venture and combined capabilities to support clients on complex domestic and cross-border transactions and disputes. He also expressed eagerness to continue supporting the goals of both the public and private sectors as the country makes fast progress towards Vision 2030.