As regularly noted here, the law firm's expansion into the Gulf region is part of a wider trend of such businesses eyeing the opportunities it sees in this area.

London law firm Forsters has announced its entry into the Middle East with the launch of a base in Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM). 

The expansion will be led by private wealth partner James Brockhurst, a recognised expert in succession planning, tax, family governance and crypto assets. 

Brockhurst, who advises high net worth individuals, family offices, entrepreneurs and trustees across the Middle East, is known for his technical expertise and empathetic approach. 

“Establishing a presence in ADGM allows us to be even closer to our Middle Eastern clients as well as those with interests in the Middle East and to support them with the full breadth of our private wealth expertise, including cross-border planning, family governance and crypto asset advisory,” Brockhurst said.

Emily Exton, managing partner at Forsters, added: “Our move into ADGM is about more than geography – it’s about anticipating the future of private wealth. As families and businesses become increasingly global, we are committed to being where our clients need us most.”

Focusing on the private wealth sector, the new office will be advising individuals, families and businesses on succession planning, family governance, cross-border planning and structuring for Middle Eastern families and investors.