Izdihar Acquires GEMS Dubai Real Estate with Baker McKenzie's Guidance
Deal News | Jun 06, 2025 | Legal Community MENA
Baker McKenzie has played a pivotal role in advising Bank Muscat’s Izdihar Real Estate Fund on its latest acquisition, the real estate of GEMS School of Research and Innovation located in Dubai. This acquisition sets the stage for the inauguration of a new British Curriculum school, slated to commence operations in September 2025. The school's ambitious infrastructure plans include an elevated football field, an auditorium, and an Olympic-size swimming pool, signaling a commitment to providing modern and comprehensive educational facilities. Key members from Baker McKenzie's team leading this advisory effort included Partner Keri Watkins and Senior Associate Patrick McGregor, among others. Their efforts were complemented by Eversheds Sutherland, who provided legal advisory services to GEMS Education.
Sectors
- Real Estate
- Education
- Legal Advisory
Geography
- United Arab Emirates – The real estate acquisition and planned school construction are located in Dubai, UAE.
- United Kingdom – Some Baker McKenzie team members involved in the transaction are based in London, UK.
Industry
- Real Estate – This transaction involves the acquisition of real estate assets, specifically for the development of a new educational facility.
- Education – The target property is associated with the GEMS School of Research and Innovation, highlighting a focus on the education sector.
- Legal Advisory – Both Baker McKenzie and Eversheds Sutherland are key legal advisors in this transaction.
Financials
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Baker McKenzie | Legal Advisor | Company | Provided legal advisory services to Izdihar on the acquisition. |
| Bank Muscat’s Izdihar Real Estate Fund | Buyer | Company | Acquired the real estate of the GEMS School of Research and Innovation. |
| GEMS Education | Target Company | Company | Owner of the GEMS School of Research and Innovation, whose real estate was acquired. |
| Eversheds Sutherland | Legal Advisor | Company | Provided legal advisory services to GEMS Education. |