Our Team

Zayed Al Shamsi

Owner and Founder

Zayed Saeed Saif Al Shamsi is a distinguished figure in the legal realm, revered not only for his academic excellence but also for his exceptional contributions to the field of human rights, legal consultancy, and journalism in the Arab world. Through the progression of his career, Mr. Al Shamsi has seamlessly blended his advocacy for human rights with a solid foundation in the legal domain, creating a lasting impact on the Emirates and beyond.

Education and Early Life

Zayed’s commitment to the field of law was evident from his early academic pursuits. He graduated with a BA in Law and Police Sciences in the academic year 1990/1991 from the reputable Dubai Police Academy.

Professional Career

After graduating, Zayed’s professional journey commenced as a Deputy Public Prosecutor in Dubai, where he served from 1992 to 1998. With an entrepreneurial spirit, he then established his own firm in 1998, Zayed Al Shamsi Advocates and Legal Consultants, solidifying his presence in the Emirates’ legal scene.

His leadership qualities and dedication led him to serve as the Chairman of the Emirates Association of Lawyers and Legal for over a decade. He also held the esteemed position of the 2nd President of the World Jurist Association (WJA).

In the realm of journalism, Mr. Al Shamsi’s voice resonated across Arab news stations and local newspapers, bringing to the fore his expertise as a legal journalist and political analyst.

Accolades and Recognitions

Among the many laurels bestowed upon him, Zayed was honored with The Middle East Excellence Award for the 20 leading executives in 2020, a testament to his exceptional contribution to the legal and human rights field.

Memberships and Affiliations

Zayed’s dedication has seen him affiliate with multiple esteemed organizations:

• President of the Emirates Centre for Human Rights Studies
• Member of the Board of Directors of the Gulf Lawyers Union
• Membership in the International Bar Association (IBA), the Arab Lawyers Union (ALU), the American Bar Association (ABA), and the International Federation of Electronic Media UNIEM, to name a few.

His commitment to education is evident from his memberships in the Scientific Councils of institutions like the American University in the Emirates, University of Sharjah, and Ajman University of Science and Technology.

Certifications and Arbitration Expertise

A recognized authority in the realm of arbitration, Zayed holds certifications from numerous centers including Sharjah International Commercial Arbitration Centre, Abu Dhabi Centre for Conciliation and Commercial Arbitration, and Qatar International Centre for Conciliation and Arbitration.

Zayed’s contributions to the legal domain are vast. His participation in numerous courses, symposiums, and conferences showcases his relentless pursuit of knowledge and dedication to his profession. He’s been honored for his efforts by numerous organizations, including the Emirates Society for Human Rights, the Government of Dubai Legal Affairs Department, and the Dubai Police General Headquarters.

Zayed Saeed Saif Al Shamsi’s journey from a young law graduate to a prominent figure in the legal community is nothing short of inspirational. His tireless efforts, dedication, and commitment to human rights and the legal profession have rightfully earned him a place of honor in the annals of the Emirates’ history. His story serves as a beacon for aspiring lawyers and human rights advocates around the world.

Dr. Mohammed bin Hammad

Lawyer and Legal Consultant

 A lawyer and legal consultant holding of a several academic degrees in the legal field, Bachelor Degree of Law, MA in Criminal Law, MA in Public Law, and a PhD in Public Law, in addition to a Diploma in International Arbitration.

Hired previously as a senior legal counsel for one of the state institutions, then established private office in the Emirate of Dubai, and continued to burnish his expertise and legal skills through his participation in several courses and seminars related to the legal field and human rights in various GCC countries.

In addition to his scientific and dynamic experiences, has published a several books, namely: The Claiming by the Civil Right before the Criminal Court, and Rights and Guarantees of the Accused in the Stages of the Criminal Case.

He believes that perfection, specialization and team spirit at work are the pivot of the success  and excellency.

Sameer Zakarneh

Head of Operations

He joined Zayed Al Shamsi Law Firm in the year 2009. He is the Head of the Cases and Operations Follow-up Section in the firm, as well as the Personnel Affairs Officer. He has extensive experience and capabilities in all litigation procedures of all types of cases. During his career, he achieved honorable and impressive results and is characterized by high-level skills in dealing with all types of issues and legal procedures, with a leadership personality, capable of managing and developing work using the advancement professional techniques and holds advanced courses in all legal fields.

He also has wide experience in arbitration procedures in all emirates of the country, and he was among the practical training cedar of the students of the American University in Dubai and Ajman University on the practical applications of the legal profession.

He believes that science and specialized and accurate knowledge, in addition to an in-depth analytical vision of issues, and a broad culture, are among the most important weapons that a man of law must possess in his continuous pursuit of self-development, foreseeing the future, and building a leading and distinguished legal personality, capable of undertaking the burdens of the message of truth and justice, and devoting toward respecting of the laws.

Dr. David Gallo

Legal Consultant

Seasoned CEO, international commercial transactions lawyer, and global growth leader with M&A, corporate finance, capital markets, and supply chain experience. 20-year GE veteran in managing director, corporate counsel, compliance, and senior business development roles. Licensed US lawyer (active; UAE attested); JD, MBA, and BA degrees; GE Six Sigma Business Excellence certified.

Proven record for globalizing companies, developing business platforms, establishing strategic ventures, and executing major commercial transactions. Worked in multiple jurisdictions, with project assignments in the US, UK, Sweden, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kazakhstan, Brazil, Chile, China, Korea and Thailand. Prior to joining GE, worked in large private law firm as general corporate and healthcare lawyer; and, as in-house corporate finance lawyer for American Electric Power, the second largest US investor-owned electric utility.

Recent role as Director for the Academy of Law, Dubai International Financial Center (DIFC) focused on globalizing legal education, developing the Middle East legal system, facilitating cross-border commerce, collaborating with public and private sector institutions, and promoting constructive public policy development and geopolitical relations. Winner: InHouse Legal Department of the Year Innovation Award, 2016 (Association of Corporate Counsel). Winner: Legal Department of the Year–Government Department, Agency or Public Body, 2018 (Association of Corporate Counsel). Winner: Legal Support Services of the Year, 2018 (The Oath Magazine). Currently providing business advisory services in the areas of international trade and economic development, business and legal education, and strategic business development.

Muslim Hassan

Senior Legal Consultant

Born with a passion for justice, Muslim Hassan began his academic journey at the University of Basra, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Law in 1970. He furthered his education with a Higher Diploma in Judicial Sciences from the Iraqi Judicial Institute in 1979.

For over three and a half decades, Muslim Hassan’s career in the judiciary was marked by distinction. He served as the President of the Criminal Court in Baghdad and contributed his expertise as a member of the Cassation and Appellate Commission in Karkh and Rusafa, until the pivotal year of 2003.

Subsequently, he embarked on a journey as a practicing lawyer in Iraq for several years. His prowess in the field caught international attention, leading him to work as a legal advisor in various esteemed establishments in the United Arab Emirates starting 2004.

In 2005, Muslim Hassan became an integral part of Zayed Al Shamsi Law Firm and Legal Consultations, taking on the mantle of Senior Consultant. Here, he showcased his proficiency in civil, commercial, and real estate cases, solidifying his reputation as an adept legal professional.

What sets Muslim Hassan apart is not just his extensive experience in drafting memos, contracts, and high-caliber legal studies but also his innovative solutions to cases, often showcasing creative flair. He firmly believes in fostering teamwork, understanding client issues holistically, and staying abreast of developments in jurisprudence. To Muslim Hassan, upholding the sacred trust inherent in the legal profession isn’t just a responsibility—it’s a calling.

Dr. Elyes Ben Letaifa

Legal Consultant

Elyes Ben Letaifa, a co-founder of Juris International Lawyers Network since 2003, has left an indelible mark on the global legal stage. Working hand in hand with his correspondent and abroad associate, Corinne GIUDICELLI-JAHN from the Paris Bar, he has bridged continents, connecting top-tier law offices in Europe, Africa, and Asia through hundreds of flights.

Elyes plays pivotal roles in various associations, such as serving as the Vice President of the Association of European Attorney and being a dedicated member of the Union International des Avocats and the International Association of Entertainment Law. Furthermore, he was a former “Of Council” in International public relations for FIRVEST I.C.X (France-United States).

His networking prowess spurred the inception of Juris International, Public Relation LLP. Registered in Dubai, this venture focuses on cultivating connections between lawyers and international financial standards, all underpinned by rigorous ethics. Today, Zayed Al Shamsi, ex-President of the Emirati Lawyers Association and the official representative of the Lawyers Bar in Emirates, stands at the helm of Juris International.

With two decades of international law practice under his belt, Elyes has been involved in a myriad of significant legal endeavors. This includes handling probate and realization of international inheritance cases for notable Middle Eastern royal families with institutions like UBS Bank in Switzerland, AHLI UNITED Bank, and EFG Bank. His expertise also stretches into wealth and real estate management for individuals from Libya, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Great Britain in the Europe and MENA region. Elyes has collaborated with esteemed firms such as Withers Worldwide LLP and Farrer & Co on projects valued between 1MD to 30MD.

Elyes has also showcased his legal acumen in other arenas: assisting in debt recovery in the MENA region, working on international transactions related to multinational offshoring and onshoring, optimizing private equity for international families, and even diving deep into historical cases involving lost and expropriated funds from ex-colonies.

Adding to his extensive experience, Elyes is academically accomplished. He earned a Master’s Degree from Orleans University in 2001 and pursued doctoral studies focusing on Criminal Financial Law, specifically “insider Trading on comparative Law”. To further hone his skills, Elyes received certification from UNIDROIT in International Commercial & Investment Arbitration in Rome. He’s also well-versed in aviation law, having secured numerous IATA diplomas from cities such as Geneva, Madrid, and more.

Elyes Ben Letaifa’s journey, marked by determination, expertise, and a global perspective, has truly redefined the contours of international law.

Dr. Ghassan Arnous

Legal Consultant

Graduating from Damascus University’s Faculty of Law in 1995, Dr. Ghassan Arnous continued his pursuit of knowledge by securing a diploma in administrative specialization in 1998. He furthered his studies by earning a master’s in administrative and financial law in 2003, and culminating his academic journey with a Ph.D. in constitutional law and political systems in 2012, again from Damascus University.

Launching his legal career in 1995, Dr. Arnous holds a professorship from the Syrian Bar Association. His expertise found him serving as an arbitrator in commercial disputes within Syria. Simultaneously, he imparted knowledge as a lecturer at esteemed institutions such as Al-Baath University and Damascus University in Syria, as well as Al-Zaytoonah University and Zarqa University in Jordan.

Joining Zayed Al Shamsi Law Firm in 2019, Dr. Arnous took charge of various sectors, including Penal, Labor, Sharia, and State Security Cases. His commitment and expertise have led to commendable results in most cases under his stewardship.

An accomplished author, Dr. Arnous has contributed numerous books, legal research papers, and in-depth studies, particularly in constitutional law, human rights, administrative law, and legal philosophy. Beyond his written work, he’s been an active voice in human rights, having delivered lectures and participated in workshops with the Emirates Association of Lawyers and Legal. He’s also shared his wisdom with students at the American University in Dubai and Ajman University, offering insights into the intricacies of the legal profession.

Dr. Arnous firmly believes that a lawyer’s arsenal should be equipped with precise knowledge, a keen analytical perspective, and a vast cultural understanding. In his view, these tools are paramount for a legal professional’s ongoing growth, envisioning the future, and crafting a leading legal persona that embodies truth, justice, and a deep reverence for the law.

Ahmed Mohamed Shandab

He graduates in law from the Lebanese University, and a master’s degree in leadership skills from the American University. A practitioner lawyer member of   the Bar Association in Tripoli since the year 1994. Owner of Shandab and Derbas Law Firm in Tripoli, Lebanon since 1998, who supervised the graduation of many lawyers in all jurisdictions.

He held the position of Assistant Secretary General of the Arab Lawyers Union from 2015 to 2019.

Co-founder of the Mediterranean Lawyers Union in Napoli, Italy.

He holds a trainer certificate in the field of continuing training for lawyers with the American Bar Association (ABA).

Member of the Board of Directors of the Lebanese International Centre for Lawyers and Training.

Specializing in criminal cases, cybercrime and maritime law. He held the position of Head of the Arbitration Centre at the Arab Lawyers Union.

He supervised and participated in organizing many training courses in the field of cybercrime and human development.

He believes that perfection, specialization and team spirit at work are the basis for success.

Safaa Al-Khatib

Legal Consultant

Safaa is a Syrian lawyer, after her graduation, she joined Al-Khatib Law Firm as a trainee and continued to work for them as a lawyer for 6 years. During her practice of the legal profession in Syria, she was responsible for providing legal services, consulting, and appearing before the courts.

In 2007, Safaa moved to the UAE and joined the Al Shaali & Partners Law Firm, which is a pioneer law firm in Dubai. Safaa also obtained two years of experience in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi while working as a legal consultant  at Al Seif Law Firm. In 2020, Safaa joined the work team of Zayed Al Shamsi Law Firm as a main consultant.

18 years of experience gave Safaa deep-rooted, a high-level experience and knowledge in legal practice. She can provide professional services in several legal aspects such as real estate, commercial, maritime law, financial crimes, electronic crimes, family status, wage committees, intellectual property and labor disputes.

She has professional experience in drafting and revision of contracts, and she has drafted and reviewed contracts for well-known companies in the fields of electronic commerce, real estate, and hotels.

Safaa is also an independent arbitrator  and has conducted arbitration as a sole arbitrator  and as a member of arbitral tribunals. In addition to her experience in resolving disputes by alternative means, she was able to avoid litigation, which saved time and costs for her clients.

Safaa believes that specialization in the field of legal services is fital, but the lawyer must have knowledge in the various fields of law, because any dispute may involve several legal sectors.

Ghenaa Masoud Al-Matri

Legal Researcher

Ghenaa Masoud Al-Matri, Legal Researcher at Zayed Al Shamsi Advocates and Legal Consultants, PhD Researcher in Criminal Law at Cairo University – Egypt and PhD Researcher in Sharia and Judiciary at the University of Islamic Sciences – Malaysia, holds a master’s degree in Public Law from Ajman University by distinction grade with honors and a bachelor’s degree in Law and Economics from Al Jazeera University in Dubai by distinction grade with honors. She joined Dubai Customs at the Sector of Policy and Legislation with customs experience extends to18 years of. She is a certified Arbitrator at the Commercial Arbitration Center of the Gulf Cooperation Council, an affiliate member of the Emirates Association for Lawyers and Legal, and a member of the Emirates Intellectual Property Association. She holds a Diploma in Customs Investigation from the Dubai Judicial Institute, and Electronic Diploma in Strategic Planning to Combat Drugs from the Dubai Police. She is also a Training of Trainer T.O.T certified by Knowledge and Human Development Authority in Dubai.

She has many publications, including the book (The Jurisdiction of the Security Council Pursuant to the Statute of the International Criminal Court), as well as the book (Intellectual Property Rights Protection in UAE Law)

She participated in many international conferences, the most important thereof was participating in a research paper entitled (The Role of International Organizations in Achieving Sustainable Development) – United Arab Emirates as a Model, at the Fifth International Conference of Legal Entrepreneurs, sponsored by the Gulf International Center, which was held in Cairo on 24/02/2022 and won the first three places.

She also participated with a research paper entitled (Intellectual Property Rights Legal Protection in UAE Legislation – Dubai Customs as a Model) at the conference on the Role of Sharia, Law and Sharia Science in Facing the Challenges of the Digital Revolution Era, which was held at the University of Islamic Sciences in Malaysia on 22/11/2023 and won the Golden Research Award.

She has extensive knowledge of UAE legislation and laws, preparing and drafting contracts, agreements and conclusions, as well as conducting the necessary in-depth studies on all legal files that would help in understanding the issues properly.

She has the skill to use search systems that contain information and legal sources, good technical skills, and information technology and databases management. She holds a certificate in the Integrated Digital Transformation Program from the Institute of Languages ​​and Translation at Cairo University. She also has good writing skills, excellent research skills, the ability to withstand work pressure, time management, and is fluent in Arabic and English, writing, speaking, and reading.

Dr. Waseem Mahdi

Legal Consultant

Ebraam Youssry

Head of Finance

He graduated from the Faculty of Commerce, Department of Accounting, Assiut University, Egypt, in 2011, which is considered one of the most important internationally universities recognizable in most countries of the world. He obtained a certificate from the English study division of the American University in Cairo in 2013. He also obtained the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) from the American University in Cairo in 2014. In addition to the International Computer Driving License (ICDL) certificate.

He started practicing in the field of accounts since 2012 and has more than 10 years of experience in the field of public accounting, preparation of final financial reports, accounting auditing and taxes.

He started working in an accounting audit office in Egypt from 2012 to 2014. Then he moved to work in a food and beverage company from 2014 to 2021 as a general accountant.

He joined Zayed Al Shamsi Law Firm in 2022 as the Director of the Accounts Department. And responsible for all accounting transactions (customer accounts – supplier accounts – bank and cash accounts – corporate accounts – value added tax – corporate tax – preparing financial statements)

He could make administrative and financial decisions that help the firm to ensure the stability of cash flows, which is the basis for the continuity and survival of companies in accordance with international accounting standards.

He believes that science, the pursuit of knowledge, scientific research, and self-advancement are the basis for reaching the top and professional success.

Mahmoud Atta

Translation Manager

Armed with a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science and an advanced Diploma in Business Administration, Mahmoud Atta has carved a niche for himself in the realm of translation and legal interpretation.

His early career saw him serving as a translator at the General Conference of the Over All National Strategy in Sudan. This laid the foundation for his role at the Sudanese News Agency (SUNA), where he honed his skills as an editor-translator. In this capacity, Mahmoud covered a vast array of subjects, from politics and economics to science and sports, and showcased his expertise in simultaneous translations for various media events.

Broadening his horizons, Mahmoud then aligned with the Comelys Translation Office, specializing in translating legal and economic research, feasibility studies, and books. His journey took a turn towards sports when he contributed to the Sultanate of Oman’s Organizing Committee for the 2nd Asian Beach Games in Muscat. His meticulous translations encompassed everything from daily correspondence and game manuals to contracts, sports regulations, and ceremonial speeches.

2016 marked a significant milestone as Mahmoud transitioned to Zayed Law Firm and Legal Consultations in Dubai. Here, he seamlessly integrated translation into the legal realm, interpreting client meetings, correspondences, legal notices, contracts, and more.

Mahmoud firmly believes in the symbiotic relationship between translation and legal work. He sees translation as an indispensable tool, particularly in the multicultural landscape of the United Arab Emirates, ensuring legal processes are comprehensive and accessible to all.

Mohammad Salama

Rental Dispute Manager

Mohamed Emad Salameh earned his law degree from Tanta University in 2012. Upon graduating, he embarked on a distinguished legal career in Egypt, serving in advocacy roles for five years. This journey led him to prestigious positions at the High Court of Appeal and the State Council.

His aspirations took him to the United Arab Emirates, where he furthered his experience over another five years. Mohamed began this phase at Nasser Al Shamsi Law Firm and Legal Consultations, later transitioning to Zayed Al Shamsi Law Firm. Born into a family deeply rooted in the legal profession, Mohamed was naturally equipped with a robust set of legal skills. His proficiency in his domain, paired with attributes like honesty, commitment, initiative, and keen intelligence, set him apart as a noteworthy jurist.

Currently, he leads the rental cases division at Zayed Al Shamsi. While his expertise extends to inheritance, family, commercial, and real estate cases, he possesses a distinct aptitude for drafting complaints, managing criminal cases, and overseeing the enforcement of commercial judgments and cheque executions.

Sara Abdullah

Execution Case Manager

Born with a penchant for legal intricacies, Sara Abdullah embarked on her academic journey at Mansoura University in the Arab Republic of Egypt. By 2014, she had earned her Bachelor’s degree in Law. Her insatiable thirst for knowledge saw her furthering her studies, obtaining a Higher Diploma in Public Law by 2016 and a Master’s degree in Criminal Law a year later, both from Mansoura University.

Since 2014, Sara’s legal journey has spanned multiple esteemed law firms in Egypt, allowing her to gather an eclectic range of experiences. Her skills then found a platform in the United Arab Emirates, where she served as a legal researcher in various law firms and legal consultations for over six years. Here, Sara refined her expertise in case follow-ups, client communications, liaising with government departments, and ensuring tasks were seen through to completion.

Her association with Zayed Al Shamsi Law Firm and Legal Consultations marked another significant chapter in her career. Serving as a legal researcher, Sara managed all executive cases and actively followed up on a plethora of civil, commercial, and rental cases.

Sara’s dedication extends beyond practical work. She has contributed numerous studies and research, primarily focusing on the broader realm of law and zooming into the specifics of criminal law. Currently, she stands on the precipice of another academic achievement, gearing up to pursue her PhD in Criminal Law.

What sets Sara apart is her meticulous approach to each case. She stays updated with the ever-evolving world of remote litigation and electronic courts, ensuring she is always a step ahead. Sara deeply believes that honesty, dedication, and hard work, grounded in robust scientific principles, are pivotal in navigating the rapidly progressing contemporary world. Her mantra? Success lies in the details and relentless pursuit of knowledge.