Skadden opens first Middle East Office in Abu Dhabi

Global law firm Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom has announced the opening of its first office in the Middle East, located in Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), the financial centre in the UAE’s capital. The new office will be led by Michael Hilton, a seasoned corporate transactional lawyer with over 20 years of experience, including a decade focusing on the Middle East.

Hilton, who was previously regional managing partner at a Magic Circle firm, specializes in cross-border private and public M&A, joint ventures, and financial sponsor work. He advises clients across sectors such as private equity, infrastructure, energy, financial services, telecom, and technology.

“Establishing our Abu Dhabi office reflects Skadden’s commitment to supporting clients with their most sophisticated legal needs in key markets,” said Jeremy London, Skadden’s Executive Partner.

Andrea Spadacini (pictured), Partner at Skadden, commented: “The move from London to Abu Dhabi represents an exciting new chapter for both myself and Skadden, strengthening our proximity to clients and building on the decades of results our firm has already achieved in the region. Abu Dhabi’s growing strategic importance will allow us to fortify existing relationships with our clients while further developing our network. This expansion, driven by the dynamic opportunities in Abu Dhabi and the wider Middle East, will also benefit our clients in Italy and Europe and their strategic ambitions. We aim to be a key reference point across the Middle East for high-profile investors, sovereign funds, and multinational corporations, offering the first-rate quality and expertise that have always distinguished Skadden.”

Lorenzo Corte, global head of Skadden’s transactions practices, highlighted the firm’s extensive experience advising corporations, financial institutions, and sovereign wealth funds in the Middle East, noting that Hilton’s expertise will be integral to expanding these connections.

The move underscores Skadden’s strategic growth and positions it to provide top-tier legal services to regional and international clients across M&A, financing, litigation, and other key areas.