The Architect who Reshaped the In-House Legal Landscape in the Middle East

written by Dr. Mohamed Elmogy – General Counsel

In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, the role of the in-house lawyer in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region has grown increasingly multifaceted. No longer confined to traditional legal advisory, these professionals are expected to demonstrate not only legal expertise but also sharp strategic business acumen. Despite the growing demands, there has long been an absence of a comprehensive platform where in-house counsel could collaborate, learn, and exchange ideas on a regional scale.

Recognising this gap, Dr. Mogy—a visionary and respected leader in the region’s legal community—took it upon himself to foster a supportive, dynamic ecosystem tailored to the unique needs of in-house legal professionals. His motivation was rooted in a genuine commitment to uplifting the in-house community, rather than personal gain, and his efforts have catalysed a remarkable transformation in the sector.

Building Bridges Across MENA

Dr. Mogy’s passion for connectivity and collaboration is evident in the impressive networks he has established. In 2017, he launched the In-House Legal Counsel Platform in Egypt. What began as a modest initiative has since flourished into a thriving community with over 600 in-house lawyers, representing many of the nation’s leading companies. Building on this momentum, he subsequently founded the In-House Legal Counsel Group in the UAE. Today, this group has grown to nearly 500 members and continues to welcome new voices, further strengthening the region’s legal fraternity.

Together, these platforms unite more than 1,100 in-house legal professionals across the MENA region, underscoring the critical need for such forums. These groups not only facilitate professional development and knowledge sharing but also foster a sense of belonging and collective purpose.

Pioneering Leadership: ACC MENA Success

Beyond his groundbreaking work in community building, Dr. Mogy made history as the first Egyptian to be elected President of the ACC MENA Chapter. Under his stewardship, and in close collaboration with the ACC MENA Board of Directors, the Chapter has achieved remarkable milestones. Notably, they have doubled the number of followers on the ACC MENA page, significantly raising the Chapter’s profile and influence throughout the region.

Dr. Mogy’s journey exemplifies the profound impact that dedicated leadership, and a spirit of service can have on the professional community. His work not only empowers in-house lawyers but also sets a new standard for legal collaboration and excellence across the MENA region.