Forsters LLP expands into the Middle East with new Abu Dhabi Global Market base
Leading London law firm Forsters LLP has announced its entry into the Middle East with the launch of a base in Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM). This strategic move marks a significant milestone in the firm’s international growth and reflects its commitment to serving the evolving needs of global private wealth clients.
The expansion will be spearheaded by Private Wealth Partner James Brockhurst, a recognised expert in succession planning, tax, family governance and cryptoassets. James has long advised high net worth individuals, family offices, entrepreneurs and trustees across the Middle East, and is known for his technical expertise and empathetic approach. His frequent travel to the region over many years and understanding of private wealth issues internationally make him ideally placed to lead Forsters’ new offering in the region. James will be supported by a cross-practice Middle East team made up of private wealth, corporate, dispute resolution and real estate specialists.
“Forsters has always taken pride in building close, trusted relationships with our clients,” said James Brockhurst. “Establishing a presence in ADGM allows us to be even closer to our Middle Eastern clients as well as those with interests in the Middle East and to support them with the full breadth of our private wealth expertise, including cross-border planning, family governance and cryptoasset advisory. Our longstanding commitment to the region has given us a deep understanding of the cultural and local dynamics at play, including Sharia principles, which informs our advice.”
Emily Exton, Managing Partner at Forsters, added: “Our move into ADGM is about more than geography – it’s about anticipating the future of private wealth. As families and businesses become increasingly global, we are committed to being where our clients need us most. This expansion positions Forsters at the heart of a thriving international financial centre and reinforces our ambition to deliver world-class advice across borders.”
The new office will focus on delivering bespoke advice across the private wealth spectrum with a particular emphasis on advising individuals, families and businesses on succession planning, family governance, cross-border planning and structuring for Middle Eastern families and investors.
This expansion builds on Forsters’ reputation as a leading advisor in the private wealth space and underscores its commitment to delivering exceptional, globally oriented client service.
ADGM has rapidly emerged as a premier international financial centre, attracting a surge of legal and financial entities due to its English common law framework, favourable tax environment and strategic location.
