Simmons & Simmons Hires Umera Ali As Partner To Lead Middle East Banking Practice Across KSA And UAE
International law firm Simmons & Simmons has appointed Umera Ali as a partner, enhancing its banking capabilities across the Middle East, particularly in Saudi Arabia (KSA) and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
With over 20 years of experience, Ms. Ali joins Simmons from a US-headquartered multinational law firm, where she led its KSA banking practice. She advises on both conventional and Islamic finance matters and has a strong track record in complex financial instruments, structures, and major transactions. Her practice spans general bank lending, project finance, trade finance, acquisition finance, development and construction finance, and property finance.
Ms. Ali brings deep expertise in the Saudi market, including an advanced understanding of the region’s evolving regulatory environment and economic landscape. In her new role, she will split her time between Simmons’ Dubai office and its upcoming Riyadh office, scheduled to open in summer 2025. From these locations, she will support national and international clients across KSA, UAE, and the broader Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region.
Commenting on the hire, Muneer Khan, Middle East Head, said,
“Umera is a first-rate banking lawyer and we’re very pleased to have secured her as a partner. Her track record, client relationships and deep understanding of regulatory environments across the Middle East – especially in the KSA – are a huge asset. Umera will play an integral role leading our banking offering in the wider region, supporting our growth ambitions.”
On joining Simmons, Ms. Ali said,
“It’s great to have joined Simmons as partner ahead of the firm’s further expansion in the Middle East. Simmons has a strong presence in the region, supported by an extensive global network, which is a fantastic fit for my banking practice. I’m looking forward to winning mandates across the wider region, supporting clients’ complex needs from both the KSA and the UAE.”
She said,
“Excited to start a new chapter! I’m thrilled to share that I’ve joined Simmons & Simmons as Partner and Head of Banking & Finance – Middle East, dividing my time between Dubai and Riyadh. After nearly two decades advising across the GCC, I’m looking forward to growing a practice that supports financial institutions, infrastructure, and energy clients with clarity and purpose. A heartfelt thank you to the colleagues, clients, and mentors who’ve shaped my journey so far—your support has been invaluable.”
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