Herbert Smith applies for licence to secure third Mid East outpost

Herbert Smith has become the latest City law firm to target the Qatar market as the firm gears up for the launch of a new office in Doha.

The firm began the licence application process last month, with a view to opening in Doha at the end of the year if the launch is approved.

Middle East head Neil Brimson will relocate to Doha to oversee the new office, accompanied by three or four associates. The base will focus on energy and infrastructure, M&A, finance, construction and dispute resolution.

Brimson commented: "We have been thinking about opening in Qatar for some time. Qatar is one of the key markets for our practice in the Middle East and it has become quite apparent that, in order to provide our clients with the best possible service, we have to be on the ground in Doha.

"We already handle substantial work for Qatari clients and our aim is to continue to service those clients with their outbound investments, as well as acting for both local and international clients in relation to work in the region."

A Doha launch would mark Herbert Smith's third Middle East base, alongside existing offices in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The firm also has a foothold in the Jeddah, Riyadh and Dammam markets through an exclusive association with Saudi Arabian firm Al-Ghazzawi Professional Association.

News of the firm's plans comes after Clifford Chance announced in January this year that it had applied for a licence in Doha. McGrigors opened its first Middle East base with a Qatar launch in March 2011, while Allen & Overy set up in the region in February last year with the relocation of City real estate partner Robert Porter.