Norton Rose Fulbright Middle East has expanded its Dubai banking and projects teams with the addition of a partner from Stephenson Harwood.

Nicholas Robinson, who has been based in Dubai since 2010, rejoins the firm after a year with Stephenson Harwood. He first joined Norton Rose in Dubai in 2010.

Robinson advises regional and international financial institutions and corporates on secured lending transactions and has particular expertise in development and project finance on both a conventional finance and Islamic finance basis, the firm said in a statement.

Robinson's practice covers real estate finance, export credit agency-backed finance, acquisition finance, asset finance and trade finance. He also advises on restructuring and insolvency matters, which have seen a COVID-19-related uptick in the UAE.

"We are delighted to welcome Nick back to Norton Rose Fulbright as a partner, further expanding the team following the appointment of Nick Kramer as projects and construction partner earlier this year," said Deirdre Walker, head of Middle East at Norton Rose.

Robinson's in-depth experience with UAE law will expand upon the firm's capability as a local law provider, she said, adding that it also strengthens the full-service offering of the banking team.

Prior to moving to the Middle East, Robinson was as an associate with Allen & Overy in London for five years and then with Osborne Clarke for three years.