Hakim Joins Paul Hastings to Strengthen Abu Dhabi Practice
Advisor - People | May 06, 2025 | Paul Hasting
Paul Hastings LLP has further strengthened its international energy and infrastructure team with the hiring of Ibaad Hakim as a partner in its Abu Dhabi office. Hakim, who joins from White & Case, brings a wealth of experience in major oil and gas, infrastructure, and power projects, notably those that are project financed. His recruitment aligns with Paul Hastings' strategy to expand its practice in the UAE, Europe, and Asia, complementing its already established U.S. operations. The new team, which includes recent hires in London and Paris, is poised to advise on transformative projects across diverse jurisdictions and procurement models. This move is part of the firm's broader initiative to build a top-tier global energy and infrastructure platform.
Sectors
- Legal Services
- Energy and Infrastructure
Geography
- United Arab Emirates – The new partner Ibaad Hakim is based in the UAE, specifically Abu Dhabi, where Paul Hastings is strengthening its regional hub.
- United Kingdom – Hakim is dual-qualified in England & Wales, and his expertise is relevant across diverse jurisdictions, including the UK.
- France – Paris is included as part of the strategic expansion of Paul Hastings' energy and infrastructure practice in Europe.
Industry
- Legal Services – Paul Hastings is expanding its legal services by strengthening its energy and infrastructure team with a new partner in Abu Dhabi.
- Energy and Infrastructure – The article focuses on Paul Hastings' efforts to expand its practice in the energy and infrastructure sectors with expertise in oil, gas, and project financing.
Financials
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paul Hastings LLP | Legal Firm | Company | A premier global law firm expanding its energy and infrastructure practice. |
| Ibaad Hakim | New Partner | Person | An experienced lawyer in energy and infrastructure projects, joining from White & Case. |
| White & Case | Previous Employer of Ibaad Hakim | Company | A prominent international law firm where Hakim previously worked. |
| Rob Freedman | Co-chair of Energy and Infrastructure Practice | Person | Responsible for leading the energy and infrastructure initiatives at Paul Hastings. |
| Din Eshanov | Co-head of Abu Dhabi Office | Person | Overseeing Paul Hastings' Abu Dhabi operations and its strategic growth. |
| George Kazakov | Co-head of Abu Dhabi Office | Person | Supporting the leadership in Abu Dhabi for Paul Hastings. |
| Xavier Petet | Paris-based Partner | Person | Part of the international team strengthening Paul Hastings' practice. |