The appointment further strengthens Reed Smith’s corporate offering across the Middle East and reflects the firm’s continued investment in building integrated capabilities across the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Basama’s hire enhances the firm’s bench strength in cross-border M&A, private equity and complex corporate transactions, with a particular focus on growth opportunities across Saudi Arabia.

Basama has developed a market-leading practice advising sovereign wealth funds, family offices, private equity funds and corporates on complex cross-border M&A, joint ventures, reorganisations and corporate governance matters throughout the region.

He brings strong regional insight and well-established relationships across both the UAE and Saudi markets, with extensive experience advising leading regional investors and corporates.

Basama’s arrival reflects the firm’s continued focus on scaling its Middle East corporate platform and capturing increased inbound deal flow across the Gulf, particularly in Saudi Arabia.

Mike Young, EME co-chair of the firm’s Global Corporate Group, said:

"Mohammed's appointment continues the strong momentum we are building across our Corporate practice in Europe and the Middle East. He brings significant experience across complex cross-border M&A and private equity transactions, and importantly, has a well-established track record advising on Saudi-related mandates alongside his UAE practice. As demand continues to grow for sophisticated cross-border advice across the Gulf, his profile, relationships and regional expertise will strengthen both our Middle East offering and our ability to deliver seamlessly for clients across our international platform."

Anders Nilsson, Middle East Managing Partner, said:

“We are very pleased to welcome Mohammed to the firm. As our Saudi Arabia offering continues to expand, his relationships, market understanding and track record of advising leading regional investors will further strengthen the connectivity between our UAE and Riyadh platforms and enhance our ability to serve clients across the GCC.”

Mohammed Basama said:

“I am delighted to be joining Reed Smith at a time of real momentum across its Middle East platform. The firm’s integrated regional approach, combined with its global reach, creates a strong platform for clients with interests across both the UAE and Saudi Arabia. I look forward to working with colleagues in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Riyadh to continue building a market-leading corporate practice in the region.”

Basama joins Reed Smith from King & Spalding.