Italian independent Gianni set to open office in Abu Dhabi as launch licence is approved

Italy's Gianni Origoni Grippo & Partners is set to launch in Abu Dhabi next year following the recent approval of the firm's licence.

Real estate partner Riccardo Sensi will relocate to the region to head up the office alongside counsel Francesca Cesca, senior associate Gianluca Grillo and three further associates.

Cesca is head of the firm's 'Chindia' desk, overseeing its operations in China and India, and will develop the firm's profile in these regions from Abu Dhabi.

Gianni's co-head of real estate Domenico Tulli and co-head of private equity Renato Giallombardo will also work closely with the Abu Dhabi office from Italy.

Tulli (pictured) said: "Dubai used to be the real landing post for everyone coming from Europe. In recent times Abu Dhabi has experienced an increase in activity from investors and has shown much more resilience to the crisis.

"Abu Dhabi is also the political capital of the Emirates and so it makes sense for us to be there in order to access the whole area. The office will also give us close proximity to India, which is an integral part of our strategy."

The office is forecast to open in January 2011 and will operate a full-service practice with a particular focus on corporate, real estate and infrastructure. The firm is also looking to use the office as a springboard to attract work from North Africa.

News of Gianni's launch comes after US firm Dewey & LeBoeuf ramped up its Middle East presence, opening an office in Abu Dhabi earlier this month. London corporate finance partner Stephen Jurgenson relocated to head up the firm's fourth Middle Eastern office. Other firms looking at the United Arab region include Bird & Bird, which applied for a licence in May this year.