Ashurst wins Middle East M and A Deal of Year

Ashurst's Middle East corporate and finance teams advised Damas on all aspects of this complex transaction.

As one of the largest public M&A deals to date, it was a key M&A transaction for the Middle East region and followed Damas's Dhs3bn debt restructuring, on which Ashurst also advised.

The team was led by head of corporate, partner Alastair Holland, supported by senior associate Chris Young. Partner Martyn Rogers and senior associate Aaron Lee provided advice on finance aspects.

Commenting on the win, partner Alastair Holland, said, "We are delighted that our work has been recognised in this way. The Damas takeover was an important and innovative M&A transaction in the region, and a particular highlight in the DIFC, as well as a complex deal involving multiple stakeholders and interests. It was a pleasure to work with the various parties involved."

Head of Middle East, Joss Dare, said, "I am delighted for Alastair and his team, who thoroughly deserve this award. Our corporate team continues to undertake some impressive work and is one of our stand out practices. It is no surprise that they were also shortlisted for M&A Team of the Year."

Ashurst's Middle East team was also nominated for Project Finance Deal of the Year for their work on the Muharraq wastewater project in Bahrain.