Safeguard your business operations with our specialized services

Expertise

Comprehensive legal and corporate solutions, specializing in business structuring, regulatory compliance, and strategic growth.

OUR EXPERTISE

Areas of Legal Expertise

We offer a comprehensive range of legal, corporate, compliance, and risk management solutions tailored to safeguard your business and enhance operational efficiency. Our team of experts ensures that your company remains compliant, protected, and well-positioned for growth.

Corporate and Commercial

Our Corporate and Commercial practice delivers sophisticated legal solutions across the full spectrum of business operations. We provide comprehensive counsel on corporate structuring, commercial contracts, shareholder agreements, and corporate governance frameworks. Our expertise encompasses company formations, corporate restructuring, commercial agency agreements, and strategic business transactions. We assist clients in navigating complex regulatory requirements while ensuring operational efficiency and legal compliance across jurisdictions. Our practice emphasizes risk mitigation strategies and commercial solutions tailored to each client’s business objectives.

Franchises

Our Franchise practice delivers sophisticated legal solutions for both franchisors and franchisees. We provide comprehensive counsel on franchise agreement structuring, brand protection strategies, and regulatory compliance frameworks. Our expertise includes trademark protection, territory development agreements, master franchise arrangements, and dispute resolution mechanisms. We ensure all the legal compliances while protecting our clients’ intellectual property rights and commercial interests across multiple jurisdictions.

Joint Ventures

Our Joint Venture practice provides comprehensive legal support for complex cross-border partnerships and strategic alliances. We guide clients through all aspects of joint venture formation, including structure optimization, risk allocation, management control, and exit strategies. Our expertise encompasses local ownership requirements, profit-sharing arrangements, and operational control mechanisms. We ensure joint venture agreements align with both commercial objectives and regulatory requirements while protecting our clients’ interests throughout the venture lifecycle.

Litigation Management

Our Litigation Management practice provides sophisticated guidance on complex legal proceedings across multiple jurisdictions. We develop comprehensive litigation strategies, manage court proceedings, and coordinate with local counsel. Our expertise includes commercial litigation, regulatory proceedings, and enforcement actions. We ensure litigation strategies align with commercial objectives while protecting our clients’ interests throughout the legal process.

Distributorships

Our Distributorship practice offers extensive expertise in structuring and negotiating distribution arrangements across various industry sectors. We provide comprehensive legal guidance on exclusive and non-exclusive distribution agreements, territory management, performance obligations, and termination provisions. Our services include protecting intellectual property rights, ensuring compliance with local and international distribution laws, and managing complex cross-border distribution networks. We assist in developing strategic frameworks for market entry and expansion while ensuring compliance with the relevant provisions.

Mergers & Acquisitions

Our M&A practice delivers sophisticated legal counsel across all aspects of corporate transactions. We guide clients through complex due diligence processes, transaction structuring, negotiation strategies, and post-merger integration. Our expertise includes share purchase agreements, asset acquisitions, corporate restructuring, and regulatory approvals. We ensure transactions comply with UAE and international regulations while maximizing value and minimizing risk for our clients.

FinTech

In the rapidly evolving world of financial technology, we offer expert legal services designed to meet the unique needs of FinTech companies, startups, and investors. Our services encompass regulatory compliance, licensing, data protection, intellectual property management, and contract drafting to ensure smooth and secure business operations. We also provide legal guidance on blockchain technology, cryptocurrencies, smart contracts, and digital payment systems. Whether navigating complex regulatory frameworks or resolving disputes, our goal is to safeguard innovation and facilitate growth in this dynamic sector.

Virtual Assets

As the virtual assets industry continues to expand, businesses face increasing regulatory challenges and cybersecurity risks. We provide comprehensive legal support, ensuring compliance with evolving regulations, securing necessary licenses, and implementing strong data protection measures. Our expertise covers cryptocurrency exchanges, token offerings, decentralized finance (DeFi), and non-fungible tokens (NFTs). From contract drafting to intellectual property management and dispute resolution, we help clients operate confidently in this cutting-edge and high-stakes industry.

Venture Capital Funds and Private Equity

We specialize in providing bespoke legal solutions for Venture Capital (VC) and Private Equity (PE) firms, enabling seamless investment transactions and long-term success. Our services include regulatory compliance, investment structuring, due diligence, risk assessment, contract negotiation, and portfolio oversight. Whether facilitating fund formation, managing exits, or handling dispute resolution, we provide strategic legal counsel to help investors and fund managers navigate the complexities of the financial landscape.

Banking and Finance

Our Banking and Finance practice delivers expert legal counsel on complex financial transactions and regulatory matters. We provide comprehensive guidance on lending structures, security arrangements, and regulatory compliance. Our expertise includes project finance, syndicated lending, and structured finance products. We ensure financial transactions align with both commercial objectives and regulatory requirements while protecting our clients’ interests.

Islamic Finance

Our Islamic Finance practice offers specialized expertise in Shariah-compliant financial structures and products. We provide comprehensive guidance on Islamic banking products, Sukuk issuances, and Islamic investment vehicles. Our expertise includes structuring Shariah-compliant transactions, regulatory compliance, and documentation requirements. We ensure Islamic financial products align with both Shariah principles and regulatory requirements.

Governance & Compliance

Drawing from extensive experience at the highest corporate levels, our Governance and Compliance practice provides sophisticated guidance on establishing and maintaining robust corporate governance frameworks. We assist in developing board structures, committee charters, and compliance policies aligned with international best practices and regulations. Our services encompass risk management frameworks, internal controls, regulatory reporting mechanisms, and corporate secretary services. We ensure organizations maintain the highest standards of corporate governance while meeting their regulatory obligations.

Family and Personal Law

Our Family and Personal Law practice provides discrete and professional handling of sensitive personal matters. We offer comprehensive guidance on succession planning, wealth management, and personal status laws. Our expertise includes inheritance matters, family business structuring, and personal wealth protection. We ensure family matters are handled with the utmost confidentiality.

Wills, Trusts & Probate Services

A Will is a crucial legal document that ensures your assets are distributed according to your wishes and allows you to appoint guardians for minor children. Without a valid Will, your estate may not be inherited as you intended.

Our services include Drafting legally sound Wills, Establishing Trusts for asset protection, Probate assistance for estate administration, appointing executors and guardians, Advising on inheritance and distribution.

We provide expert guidance to ensure your estate planning is clear, legally secure, and aligned with your intentions.

With an extensive background spanning decades, we provide comprehensive assistance in trademark and copyright registration, intellectual property protection, and enforcement across various industries.Our services include: Trademark Registration – Protecting brand names, logos, and slogans; Copyright Protection – Securing rights for books, music, films, software, and other creative works; Enforcement & Legal Support – Assisting in copyright disputes, infringement cases, and licensing agreements.

We help safeguard your intellectual property, ensuring legal security and exclusive rights over your creative and brand assets.

Private Equity and Venture Capital

Our Private Equity and Venture Capital practice provides comprehensive legal support for investment transactions and fund formations. We guide clients through fund structuring, investment strategies, shareholder agreements, and exit mechanisms. Our expertise includes regulatory compliance, investment protection, and governance frameworks. We ensure investment structures align with both commercial objectives and regulatory requirements while protecting investor interests throughout the investment lifecycle.

Regulatory Compliance

Leveraging extensive experience in the banking sector, our Regulatory Compliance practice provides sophisticated guidance on complex regulatory frameworks. We assist clients in developing comprehensive compliance programs, risk assessment methodologies, and monitoring systems. Our expertise encompasses anti-money laundering regulations, consumer protection laws, and financial services compliance. We ensure organizations maintain robust compliance frameworks while meeting their business objectives.

Tax & Capital Markets

Our Tax and Capital Markets practice provides sophisticated counsel on tax implications and capital market transactions. We guide clients through tax planning strategies, regulatory compliance, and capital raising initiatives. Our expertise includes securities regulations, tax optimization structures, and regulatory reporting requirements. We ensure tax and capital market activities align with both commercial objectives and regulatory requirements.

Dispute Resolution

Our Dispute Resolution practice delivers strategic guidance across various forums and jurisdictions. We provide comprehensive support in mediation, arbitration, and negotiation processes. Our expertise encompasses commercial disputes, shareholder conflicts, and contractual disagreements. We ensure dispute resolution strategies align with commercial objectives while protecting our clients’ interests throughout the process.

Construction

Our Construction practice delivers expert legal counsel on complex construction projects and developments. We provide comprehensive guidance on construction contracts, project documentation, and risk management strategies. Our expertise includes FIDIC contracts, construction disputes, and project delivery methods. We ensure construction projects proceed efficiently while protecting our clients’ interests throughout the project lifecycle.

Energy

Our Energy practice provides sophisticated legal counsel for energy sector projects and transactions. We guide clients through regulatory compliance, project development, and operational frameworks. Our expertise includes power generation, renewable energy, and energy infrastructure projects. We ensure energy sector activities align with both commercial objectives and regulatory requirements.

Infrastructure and Projects

Our Infrastructure and Projects practice delivers comprehensive legal support for complex development initiatives. We guide clients through project structuring, financing arrangements, and regulatory compliance. Our expertise includes public-private partnerships, project finance, and infrastructure development frameworks. We ensure infrastructure projects align with both commercial objectives and regulatory requirements while managing associated risks effectively.

Industrial, Manufacturing, and Resources

Our Industrial and Manufacturing practice delivers sophisticated legal counsel for industrial operations and resource management. We provide comprehensive guidance on operational frameworks, regulatory compliance, and risk management strategies. Our expertise includes manufacturing regulations, industrial licensing, and resource allocation frameworks. We ensure industrial operations align with both commercial objectives and regulatory requirements.

Shipping, Aviation, and Transport

Our Transport sector practice provides expert legal counsel across maritime, aviation, and land transport operations. We guide clients through regulatory compliance, operational frameworks, and risk management strategies. Our expertise includes maritime law, aviation regulations, and transport sector compliance. We ensure transport operations align with both commercial objectives and regulatory requirements.

Healthcare and Education

Our Healthcare and Education practice delivers comprehensive legal support for institutional operations and regulatory compliance. We provide sophisticated guidance on operational frameworks, licensing requirements, and compliance strategies. Our expertise includes healthcare regulations, educational institution governance, and sector-specific compliance requirements. We ensure institutional operations align with both operational objectives and regulatory requirements.

Insurance and Risk Management

Our Insurance and Risk Management practice provides expert counsel on insurance products, regulatory compliance, and risk mitigation strategies. We guide clients through policy frameworks, coverage analysis, and claims management processes. Our expertise includes insurance regulations, policy structuring, and risk transfer mechanisms. We ensure insurance arrangements effectively protect our clients’ interests while meeting regulatory requirements.

International Trade and Sanctions

Our International Trade practice delivers sophisticated guidance on cross-border commercial operations and sanctions compliance. We provide comprehensive counsel on trade regulations, customs requirements, and sanctions frameworks. Our expertise includes export controls, trade finance, and sanctions compliance programs. We ensure international trade activities align with both commercial objectives and regulatory requirements.

Real Estate and Property Law

Our Real Estate practice provides comprehensive legal support for property transactions and developments. We guide clients through acquisition strategies, development projects, and property management frameworks. Our expertise includes property laws, development regulations, and real estate financing structures. We ensure real estate activities align with both commercial objectives and regulatory requirements.

Retail, Hospitality, and Leisure

Our Retail and Hospitality practice delivers sophisticated legal counsel for sector-specific operations and compliance requirements. We provide comprehensive guidance on licensing frameworks, operational requirements, and risk management strategies. Our expertise includes retail regulations, hospitality licensing, and sector-specific compliance and regulatory requirements.

Employment and Labor Law

Our Employment Law practice provides expert counsel on workforce management and labor relations. We guide clients through employment frameworks, regulatory compliance, and dispute resolution processes. Our expertise includes labor laws, employment contracts, and workplace policies. We ensure employment practices align with both operational objectives and regulatory requirements.

Restructuring, Insolvency, and Bankruptcy Law

Our Restructuring and Insolvency practice delivers comprehensive legal support for financial distress situations. We provide expert guidance on restructuring strategies, insolvency proceedings, and creditor negotiations. Our expertise includes bankruptcy laws, corporate restructuring, and debt restructuring frameworks. We ensure restructuring processes protect our clients’ interests while meeting regulatory requirements.

Tele Communications, Media, and Technology

Our TMT practice provides expert legal counsel for technology sector operations and digital transformation initiatives. We guide clients through regulatory compliance, operational frameworks, and risk management strategies. Our expertise encompasses digital governance, cybersecurity regulations, data protection, intellectual property rights, and emerging technology frameworks. We create innovative legal solutions that empower technological advancement while ensuring comprehensive regulatory compliance and risk mitigation.

Comprehensive Legal, Compliance and Risk Management Solutions

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© 2025 · UL Associates Consultancy LLC · All Rights Reserved

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© 2025 · UL Associates Consultancy LLC · All Rights Reserved

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A. Backer Ali

Backer Ali, Senior Partner at Universal Legal Associates (UL Associates), brings over 35 years of distinguished experience in the legal, banking, and corporate sectors. His career is marked significant achievements, including a notable tenure of three decades as Group Legal Advisor and Vice President at Mashreqbank psc, where he provided strategic legal guidance and advises, managed high-stakes litigation, and led corporate governance initiatives.

A strategic legal expert, he has successfully navigated complex legal and regulatory frameworks while fostering relationships with key stakeholders, including top government officials and business leaders. His expertise in legal counsel, compliance, and corporate governance has positioned him as a trusted advisor to major corporations and institutions. He has played a critical role in structuring legal frameworks that align with evolving international regulations, particularly in banking, compliance, and consumer protection.

As an advisor in the Corporate Secretariat and Governance to the Board of Directors of Mashreqbank psc, he also spearheaded governance frameworks that ensured transparency, accountability, and compliance while facilitating informed decision-making at the highest levels.

Known for his skilled negotiation abilities, he has been instrumental in high-value transactions and strategic partnerships, ensuring favorable outcomes for clients. His keen understanding of regulatory requirements and governance structures enables these organizations to thrive while maintaining strict adherence to legal and ethical guidelines.

Backer Ali’s strategic foresight and extensive legal acumen continue to drive impactful results for businesses across the region. His commitment to excellence and ability to deliver comprehensive legal solutions make him a key asset to UL Associates and the clients he serves.

Skills & Expertise:

  1. Corporate and Commercial
  2. Distributorships
  3. Franchises
  4. Governance and Compliance
  5. Joint Ventures
  6. Mergers and Acquisitions
  7. Private Equity and Venture Capital
  8. Regulatory Compliance
  9. Banking and Finance
  10. Islamic Finance
  11. Tax and Capital Markets
  12. Dispute Resolution
  13. Litigation Management
  14. Construction
  15. Energy
  16. Infrastructure and Projects
  17. Family and Personal Law
  18. Industrial, Manufacturing, and Resources
  19. Shipping, Aviation, and Transport
  20. Healthcare and Education
  21. Insurance and Risk Management
  22. International Trade and Sanctions
  23. Real Estate and Property Law
  24. Retail, Hospitality, and Leisure
  25. Employment and Labor Law
  26. Restructuring, Insolvency, and Bankruptcy Law
  27. Telecommunications, Media, and Technology

Adv. Hashik T.K.

With over 27 years of experience in the UAE, Adv. Hashik Thayikandi is a legal expert specializing in commercial litigation, family law, dispute resolution, and cross-border advisory. As Senior Partner at Universal Legal Associates and Senior Legal Consultant at Abdul Rahman Al Mutawa Advocates and Legal Consultant, Dubai, he delivers tailored legal solutions across the UAE, India, and GCC.

Skills & Expertise:

  • Commercial Litigation: Handles complex disputes in construction, real estate, financial services, labor law, employee relations, and compliance for businesses and individuals.
  • Cross-Border Advisory: Ensures compliance with local and international regulations in diverse legal contexts.
  • Dispute Resolution: Skilled in arbitration, mediation, and negotiation to achieve amicable solutions.
  • Family Law: Manages personal status cases for Muslims and non-Muslims in Shari’a and Personal Status Courts, focusing on financial and sensitive issues.
  • Criminal Investigations: Assists with cases in collaboration with police and public prosecution authorities.

Adv. Hashik is known for his strong relationships with government officials and industry leaders across the UAE, GCC, and India. He collaborates with local counsel in UAE Courts, representing Indian expatriates and multinational corporations to navigate complex legal systems seamlessly.

Shahzad Ahmed A

Shahzad Ahmed is a dynamic legal professional with a Master’s Degree in Law from Birmingham University, UK. Specializing in international commercial law, financial crime, trade law, and arbitration, Shahzad brings fresh perspectives to the firm. His expertise spans corporate law, intellectual property, cyber law, and real estate, delivering strategic legal solutions. He also holds certifications in Cyber Security Virtual Experience Program, Mergers & Acquisitions, and Business and Human Rights.

Born and raised in the UAE, Shahzad’s deep understanding of local and international legal systems enables him to navigate complex legal issues effectively.

Skills & Expertise:
  • Conducts comprehensive legal research, drafting, and analysis to support cases and provide informed legal advice.
  • Skilled in contract review, regulatory compliance, and strategic client counseling across diverse legal matters.
  • Experienced in litigation support and corporate advisory services, safeguarding clients’ legal interests.

Shahzad’s professional journey includes trainee roles at Mashreqbank’s Legal Department, Clifford Chance, and other leading UAE firms, honing his skills in corporate law, banking regulations, and risk management. His adaptability and commitment to continuous learning drive his passion for achieving positive legal outcomes for clients.

Mithun Beeru

Mithun Beeru is a seasoned Business Growth Strategist and Digital Transformation Expert, serving as a key Business Consultant with Universal Legal Associates.

With deep expertise in business leadership, SME coaching, and digital strategy, Mithun supports our clients in aligning their business operations with legal and commercial best practices. He brings a strategic edge to our advisory services by helping businesses overcome operational bottlenecks, streamline workflows, and build scalable, system-driven models that drive sustainable growth.

Having worked across diverse industries, Mithun’s practical experience in enterprise-level transformation and strategic coaching complements our firm’s commitment to holistic, business-centric legal solutions. His approach enables clients not just to protect their businesses legally—but to grow them efficiently.

Mithun plays a pivotal role in empowering our SME clients to shift from reactive firefighting to proactive leadership—ensuring their businesses are not only compliant but also future-ready.

Nasir Ali Anakkot

TEAM Nasir Ali Anakkot brings over 20 years of expertise in corporate law, employment law, and litigation across the UAE, India, and the UK. A seasoned consultant, he delivers strategic counsel, ensuring compliance and facilitating business growth.

Core Competencies:
  • Corporate governance, M&A, and employment law.
  • Contract negotiation, legal audits, and regulatory compliance.
  • Cross-border transactions and joint ventures.

As a Registered Foreign Lawyer in the UK, he provides unmatched insights into international corporate law, ensuring seamless legal navigation for clients worldwide. Nasir’s experience spans leadership roles at prestigious organizations.

Hassan Kutty

Hassan Kutty brings decades of expertise in criminal, civil, corporate, and family law. With extensive experience representing clients in District Courts and High Courts, as well as the Supreme Court of India, he is known for his sharp analytical skills and commitment to securing favorable outcomes.

Skills and Expertise:
  • Skilled in criminal defense, civil and commercial disputes, and family law matters.
  • Extensive experience in managing cases related to the execution of foreign judgments, particularly UAE-India cross-border enforcement.
  • Proficient in bridging Indian and Dubai legal frameworks, providing expert cross-jurisdictional advice.
  • Strategic in crafting practical, results-oriented legal strategies addressing both immediate challenges and long-term objectives.

Kutty’s strong advocacy skills and deep understanding of cross-border legal landscapes make him a vital asset to Universal Legal Associates, ensuring clients receive tailored and effective solutions to complex legal challenges.

Yusaff TM

Yusaff TM specializes in legal matters related to the insurance industry. With over four decades of experience, including a distinguished career in Oman, he brings unparalleled expertise in insurance operations, risk management, and client relations.

Skills and Expertise:
  • Proficient in handling complex insurance-related litigations, policy structuring, risk assessment, and claims management.
  • Extensive litigation experience, representing clients in high-profile cases before the High Court and district courts.
  • Expertise in fostering business growth, enhancing operational efficiency, and building long-term client relationships.
  • Dedicated to delivering results-oriented legal solutions with a strong focus on professional integrity and client satisfaction.

Yusaff’s leadership and deep understanding of insurance law continue to reinforce the firm’s reputation for excellence, ensuring comprehensive and effective legal services for its clients.

M. Anwar Abdul Jabar

Mr. Anwar is a Senior Consultant with over 30 years of experience in Islamic Banking. He has a proven track record in setting up Islamic finance institutions, product development, and regulatory compliance, making him a trusted advisor for clients navigating Islamic finance complexities.

Skills and Expertise:
  • Extensive experience in overseeing Islamic Banking operations, particularly in designing and implementing Shariah-compliant financial contracts and structures, supporting leading institutions across the region.
  • Sixteen years at QIB, where he implemented Shariah-compliant products and services, helping establish QIB as a prominent Islamic financial institution.
  • A decade at ADIB, significantly contributing to Islamic finance growth by streamlining internal processes and enhancing product offerings.
  • Four years at ADCB Islamic Window, focusing on developing Shariah-compliant banking services and products.
  • Expertise in reviewing and improving banking processes, developing standard operating procedures to enhance operational efficiency.
  • Practical experience in integrating automation and IT solutions, optimizing retail operations, cheque end-to-end (E2E) processes, and payments.
  • Skilled in advising on product structuring and risk management within the Islamic banking sector.

Mr. Anwar’s leadership and extensive experience across major regional banks make him an invaluable asset to the firm.

Aishwarya Agarwal

Aishwarya Agarwal brings a robust foundation in criminal and corporate law. Since beginning her legal practice in 2019, she has earned a reputation for sharp analytical skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to achieving favorable outcomes for clients.

Professional Experience:

  • Represented clients in high-profile cases before the High Court and Supreme Court of India, honing litigation skills and expertise in criminal defense and corporate disputes.
  • Extensive experience handling regulatory investigations, risk mitigation, and corporate governance.
  • Bridges international legal practices with expertise in both Indian and Dubai legal systems, ensuring cross-jurisdictional compliance and tailored advisory services.

Aishwarya’s approach combines a client-first philosophy with a pragmatic mindset, ensuring actionable legal solutions that address immediate concerns and align with long-term goals. Her strong advocacy and strategic thinking make her a valuable asset in navigating complex legal challenges.

Reya Anu Sony

Reya Anu Sony brings a robust academic background and diverse legal exposure across the UAE and India. Specializing in corporate law, family law, and international law, she contributes to ULA’s reputation for delivering client-focused legal solutions.

Skills and Expertise:
  • Proficient in UAE corporate, labor, and family law, with experience in drafting legal notices, managing case schedules, and conducting in-depth legal research.
  • Strong research capabilities in cyber laws and privacy acts, with certifications in Genomics for Law, Fundamental Privacy Acts, and Cybersecurity.
  • Gained diverse legal exposure through internships at Bilahari & Associates, N. Krishnan Kutty’s Law Chambers, and Vestralex, an online legal platform.
  • Active participant in high-stakes corporate and litigation matters, assisting in client counseling and delivering tailored legal solutions.

Reya’s dedication and expertise align seamlessly with ULA’s core values, making her an integral part of the firm’s mission to provide unparalleled legal services.