Charles Russell LLP, one of the premier full service law firms in the Middle East and a leading international law firm in Bahrain, has expanded its operations with a new office in Qatar launched at a reception in Doha last night. The office will provide clients with specialisms in the real estate, construction, banking and sports sectors, advice and representation in litigation and arbitration, advice on intellectual property in the region, corporate work and private client counsel to serve the Qatari and international community.

Qatar has been one of the fastest growing economies in the world. According to IMF, it has proved to be the most resilient in the GCC region during the global recession, largely due to government initiatives designed to spur the financial sector.

As host nation of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, the Qatari government has announced plans to invest approximately $225 billion by 2016. World Cup related preparations are likely to reach an estimated $80 billion. The potential of Qatar’s growth story has attracted a wealth of investors to the country. The increased activity will generate numerous jobs and continues to help position Qatar as a major global economic force.

Simon Green, partner and head of Qatar at Charles Russell said: “I am delighted to announce that we have opened an office in Qatar to serve our expanding client base in this important GCC market. A key specialism of our Qatari office will be real estate development and construction work where we offer our clients some of the most experienced legal advisers in the region.”

Patrick Gearon, partner and head of Middle East at Charles Russell, added: “Opening our office in Qatar, our second office in the GCC, is testament to the firm’s continuing strong commitment to the Middle East region.”