DLA Piper made its first ever mid-year partner promotions last month, making up seven lawyers in the United Arab Emirates.

The promotions take the number of partners in the firm's United Arab Emirates offices to 31, with each of its key practice areas represented in the latest round. The appointments come as the firm moves to bulk up in the Middle East through lateral hires and partner relocations. This month it sends London real estate partner Duncan Pickering to Abu Dhabi, with a corporate partner set to follow in October.

Middle East managing partner David Church said: "Our Middle East practice has consolidated its position as a leading provider of business-led legal services and these promotions have been made in recognition of the huge contribution that each person has made to our achievements."