Awatif Mohammad Shoqi Advocates & Legal Consultancy
Global Guide 2025
Awatif Mohammad Shoqi Advocates & Legal Consultancy
www.alrowaad.aeEmail address
[email protected]Contact number
+971 4 355 8000Share profile
About
Chairman: Awatif Khouri
Number of partners: 3
Number of lawyers: 11
Languages: Arabic, English, Farsi, French, Hindi, Russian, Tagalog, Urdu
Firm Overview:
Awatif Mohammad Shoqi Advocates & Legal Consultancy is a premier full-service law firm in the UAE. It is dedicated to offering insightful advice and legal solutions to its clients, addressing their most challenging and significant concerns.
Founded in 2003 under Advocates Without Frontiers, the firm has undergone substantial growth and transformation, culminating in its recent rebranding to bear the name of its esteemed license owner, Awatif Mohammad Shoqi. With a rich history and a deep understanding of the legal landscape in the UAE, the firm stands as a pillar of strength and guidance for both local and international clients based in the UAE.
Our headquarters, situated in Dubai, enables us to remain at the forefront of the constantly changing legal landscape in the region. Licensed to provide a comprehensive range of legal services and advocacy in the UAE, Awatif Mohammad Shoqi Advocates & Legal Consultancy is your trusted partner in navigating complex legal matters with judiciousness and expertise.
Main Areas of Practice:
Licensed to offer a broad array of legal services in the UAE, the full-service firm specializes in areas including family and civil law, criminal defence, and corporate law. The team of experienced lawyers and advisors provide transparent and tailored legal solutions, with notable expertise in assisting expatriates in divorce and family law matters, including representation through English courts.
The firm offers clear and straightforward advice and dispute resolution through various avenues such as litigation, negotiation, and arbitration, establishing itself as a reliable partner for both individuals and companies in the UAE.
Key Clients: Habib Bank AG Zurich, Shell Petroleum, French Consulate in Dubai, Emirates NBD Bank
Criminal: Fraud/Breach of Trust:
■ Successfully defended an individual against prosecution for fraud involving the sum of $6m
Key Clients: Individuals and corporations
Contact: Dr. Hassan Elhais
Tel: +971 4325 4000
Email: [email protected]
Criminal: Extradition:
■ Represented an individual to successfully prevent his extradition to the USA Key
Clients: Individuals
Contact: Dr. Hassan Elhais
Tel: +971 4325 4000
Email: [email protected]
Criminal: Drug Trafficking:
■ Acted for an individual on an appeal case to the Supreme Court of the UAE, significantly reducing his sentence
Key Clients: Individuals
Contact: Mrs. Awatif Khouri
Tel: +971 4325 4000
Email: [email protected]
Real Estate:
■ Represented a High Net Worth Russian individual to successfully recover his investment of $7m from Abu Dhabi Investment Centre LLC and others
Key Clients: Multinational individuals
Contact: Mrs. Awatif Khouri
Tel: +971 4325 4000
Email: [email protected]
Contract:
■ Represented a major UAE advertising agency on a claim for breach of contract. Successfully recovered compensation for breach, future loss and interest.
Key Clients: Individuals, international and local companies
Contact: Dr. Hassan Elhais
Tel: +971 4325 4000
Email: [email protected]
Intellectual Property:
■ Successfully represented an individual in defending a trademark protection case against a large international corporation
Key Clients: Individuals and companies
Contact: Mrs. Awatif Khouri
Tel: +971 4325 4000
Email: [email protected]
Enforcement:
■ Successfully obtained a Mirror Order of an English Children Act order, enabling the future enforcement of the order in the UAE courts Key Clients: Individuals and instructions from foreign law firms on behalf of their clients
Contact: Dr. Hassan Elhais
Tel: +971 4325 4000
Email: [email protected]
Expert Reports:
■ Advised the High Court of England and parties involved on Sharia and UAE laws required during English Children Act proceedings
Key Clients: Individuals and instructions from foreign law firms on behalf of their clients
Contact: Dr. Hassan Elhais
Tel: +971 4325 4000
Email: [email protected]
Arbitration:
■ Successfully represented a group of investors through the arbitration process, resulting in the recovery of their significant investments in a Sharjah-based construction company
Key Clients: Companies and individuals
Contact: Dr. Hassan Elhais
Tel: +971 4325 4000
Email: [email protected]
Family Law: Ancillary Relief:
■ Successfully represented a wife on an emergency application for a worldwide freezing order to prevent dissipation of matrimonial assets by her husband
Key Clients: High net-worth individuals (British expatriates)
Contact: Dr. Hassan Elhais
Tel: +971 4325 4000
Email: [email protected]
Family Law: Child Abduction:
■ Represented the father of children who had been abducted from the UAE and taking steps to obtain their safe return
Key Clients: Expatriates in the UAE
Contact: Dr. Hassan Elhais
Tel: +971 4325 4000
Email: [email protected]
International Work:
Awatif Mohammad Shoqi Advocates & Legal Consultancy assists UAE-based British expatriates with family law matters directly through the English courts. The firm has a strong reputation in this field and is often asked to provide expert written advice in Sharia and UAE law matters within international court proceedings. The firm has worked with international firms to ensure the successful recovery of debts for debtors fleeing to and from the UAE.
Ranked Offices
Provided by Awatif Mohammad Shoqi Advocates & Legal Consultancy
- DubaiThe H Hotel Office Tower 29th Floor Sheikh Zayed Road PO Box 40073, Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Web: www.alrowaad.ae
- Tel: +971 4 355 8000
Contributions
Latest contributions provided by Awatif Mohammad Shoqi Advocates & Legal Consultancy
Articles, highlights and press releases
649 items provided by Awatif Mohammad Shoqi Advocates & Legal Consultancy
Mandatory Advertiser Permit Required for Promotional Activities on Social Media
The Media Council of UAE has mandated that all social media content creators who publish promotional, whether for a fee or for free, must now do so with an advertiser permit.
What Does the Company Owe You When You Lose Your Job?
Sudden dismissals from employments, or mass lay-offs by companies are unfortunately a common occurrence across the world. In the United Arab Emirates, the government has issued certain regulations to protect the rights of the employees involved in such scenarios.
Digital Deception: How UAE Laws Combat Fraud in the Cyberworld
Cybercrimes are a growing concern around the world. It is a challenging aspect of criminal law due to it ever-evolving nature. Criminals engage in sophisticated methods to carry out fraudulent crimes, preying on unsuspecting individuals.
Obligations of Landlords and Tenants under the Dubai Tenancy Law
The Dubai tenancy law is stipulated under Dubai Law No. 26/2007 on the Organisation of the Relationship between the Lessors and Tenants in the Emirate of Dubai (“Tenancy Law”). The law lays down the rights and responsibilities of both the landlord and the tenant involved in a tenancy contract.
Risks and Remedies Involved in Investing in Off-Plan Projects
The United Arab Emirates has a vibrant real estate market. It has been experiencing consistent growth, and attracting international investment, particularly in the emirate of Dubai.
The Extradition Process Between Ireland and the UAE
Extradition is the process of handing over a person, accused of a particular crime, to the jurisdiction where the crime was undertaken. The agreement on extradition between UAE and Ireland (“Extradition Treaty”) came into force on 18th May, 2025. Let us look into the main terms under this Treaty.
Gifts and Dowry under the UAE Law
In the UAE, family law is stipulated under three main regulations, namely, the Federal Decree Law No.41 of 2024 on the Issuance on the Personal Status Law, governing Muslims across the country, the Federal Decree Law No.41 of 2022, governing non-Muslims in the UAE, except in the emirate of Abu Dhabi
“NARCOTICS IS A DIRTY BUSINESS” Legal consequences of drug trafficking in the UAE
Drug trafficking refers to the international trade of drugs. It involves production, manufacture, packaging, transportation and regional distribution of drugs, sometimes carried out by organised criminal groups.
Can a Woman Regain Custody of Children After Forfeiture of Custody Rights?
In the UAE, custody of children is governed by the UAE family law, consisting of Federal Decree Law No. 41 of 2024 on the issuance of the Personal Status Law which governs Muslims in the UAE
DIVORCE AND DIRHAMS - The Legal Framework of Alimony under Abu Dhabi Law
In a recent development, a woman filed an application for a landmark divorce settlement of AED 1 billion, before the Abu Dhabi Civil Family Court. This follows after the same court awarded an American woman in the UAE more than AED 100 million in a divorce settlement, making it a record settlement i
Executing A Foreign Will In The UAE
The UAE has established a comprehensive system of laws and registries for the draft and execution of Wills. This has been done for the benefit of the large expatriate community in the UAE who own movable and immovable assets in the country.
“RECONCILIATION IS BETTER” An Initiative to Simplify Legal Proceedings and Promote Amicable Dispute
The Dubai public prosecution has launched an initiative to improve the dispute resolution process in the Emirate. The “Reconciliation is Better” initiative has been introduced in order to promote the resolution of disputes through amicable ways.
Car Ownership in the UAE Obligations Under the UAE Law
The UAE traffic laws are governed by Federal Decree Law No. 14 of 2024 on Traffic Regulation (“Law”).
Are abortions legal in the UAE?
Abortion is the termination of a pregnancy by the removal or expulsion of the embryo or the fetus.
New UAE Law Regulates Finfluencers and Financial Information Provided on Social Media
In the recent years, there has been a boom in social media users who provide financial information to their followers.
Legal Repercussions of Posting Insults on Social Media or Making Derogatory Statements on WhatsApp
With the rise in social media usage and the comfort with which people are expressing their thoughts and views on social media, many users do not realize the real-life implications of their online activities.
Threatening a Wife with Polygamous Cohabitation Legal Consequences
A recent ruling by a UAE court determined that persistent threats by a husband about polygamous cohabitation will be considered to be psychological or mental harm to his wife.
Can a child report abusive parents to the police?
Parents are the foremost guardians in a child’s life, nourishing and protecting them during the most vulnerable stages. Parents are expected to be loving, kind and understanding of their children’s needs.
Towards a Green Future How UAE Government’s New Policies to Combat Climate Change Will Impact Busine
Joining efforts to combat climate change, the UAE has recently published Federal Decree-Law No. 11 of 2024 On Limiting the Impact of Climate Change (“Law”).
The New Personal Status Law in the UAE : Parental Rights, Divorce and its implications
In the UAE, laws governing marriage, divorce, child custody, inheritance etc. are known as personal status laws. Until April 2025, these laws were regulated by Federal Decree Law No. 28 of 2005 (“Old Law”).
The UAE Implemented New VAT Regulations for Precious Metals and Jewellery
The UAE implemented new VAT regulations under Cabinet Decision No. 127/2024 concerning the implementation of the reverse charge mechanism on precious metals and gemstones among VAT-registered businesses in the state.
Are apartment partitions allowed under UAE law?
With an enormous population of expatriates in the UAE, a large number of people choose to live in co-living spaces as they are an economical option.
The UAE traffic laws are stipulated under Federal Decree Law No. 14 of 2024. These laws are applicable throughout the UAE, across the seven Emirates.
Is divorce through WhatsApp valid under UAE Law?
In the UAE, divorce and related matters are governed by the UAE family Law. Due to the presence of various communities coexisting in the country, the UAE government has enacted separate laws for Muslim and non-Muslim citizens and residents.
Medical negligence and it's liabilities under UAE Law
Medical practitioners form one of the most important professions in the world. The significance of this profession results in a high number of responsibilities on individuals in the medical field.
Dubai Introduces A New Law for the Protection of the Emblems
The New Dubai Emblem Law (Law No. (1) of 2025) was implemented by the government of Dubai to regulate the use of emblems for the Emirate of Dubai and the government of Dubai.
Understanding the New Public Health Law in Dubai
The government of Dubai enacted the new public health law, Dubai Law No. 5 of 2025, to promote public health in the emirate.
How does the UAE laws address the issue of defaulting on a bank loan?
Loan defaults are considered as serious legal issue in the UAE.
Dying without a Will: Risks and Remedies
A will is a legal document that contains instructions regarding the disposal of assets, after a person’s death (“Will”).
Federal Decree Law No. 41/2024 and its changes to the Personal Status Law for Muslims in the UAE
In the UAE, laws governing marriage, divorce, child custody, inheritance etc. are known as personal status laws.
Mandatory Advertiser Permit Required for Promotional Activities on Social Media
The Media Council of UAE has mandated that all social media content creators who publish promotional, whether for a fee or for free, must now do so with an advertiser permit.
What Does the Company Owe You When You Lose Your Job?
Sudden dismissals from employments, or mass lay-offs by companies are unfortunately a common occurrence across the world. In the United Arab Emirates, the government has issued certain regulations to protect the rights of the employees involved in such scenarios.
Digital Deception: How UAE Laws Combat Fraud in the Cyberworld
Cybercrimes are a growing concern around the world. It is a challenging aspect of criminal law due to it ever-evolving nature. Criminals engage in sophisticated methods to carry out fraudulent crimes, preying on unsuspecting individuals.
Obligations of Landlords and Tenants under the Dubai Tenancy Law
The Dubai tenancy law is stipulated under Dubai Law No. 26/2007 on the Organisation of the Relationship between the Lessors and Tenants in the Emirate of Dubai (“Tenancy Law”). The law lays down the rights and responsibilities of both the landlord and the tenant involved in a tenancy contract.
Risks and Remedies Involved in Investing in Off-Plan Projects
The United Arab Emirates has a vibrant real estate market. It has been experiencing consistent growth, and attracting international investment, particularly in the emirate of Dubai.
The Extradition Process Between Ireland and the UAE
Extradition is the process of handing over a person, accused of a particular crime, to the jurisdiction where the crime was undertaken. The agreement on extradition between UAE and Ireland (“Extradition Treaty”) came into force on 18th May, 2025. Let us look into the main terms under this Treaty.
Gifts and Dowry under the UAE Law
In the UAE, family law is stipulated under three main regulations, namely, the Federal Decree Law No.41 of 2024 on the Issuance on the Personal Status Law, governing Muslims across the country, the Federal Decree Law No.41 of 2022, governing non-Muslims in the UAE, except in the emirate of Abu Dhabi
“NARCOTICS IS A DIRTY BUSINESS” Legal consequences of drug trafficking in the UAE
Drug trafficking refers to the international trade of drugs. It involves production, manufacture, packaging, transportation and regional distribution of drugs, sometimes carried out by organised criminal groups.
Can a Woman Regain Custody of Children After Forfeiture of Custody Rights?
In the UAE, custody of children is governed by the UAE family law, consisting of Federal Decree Law No. 41 of 2024 on the issuance of the Personal Status Law which governs Muslims in the UAE
DIVORCE AND DIRHAMS - The Legal Framework of Alimony under Abu Dhabi Law
In a recent development, a woman filed an application for a landmark divorce settlement of AED 1 billion, before the Abu Dhabi Civil Family Court. This follows after the same court awarded an American woman in the UAE more than AED 100 million in a divorce settlement, making it a record settlement i
Executing A Foreign Will In The UAE
The UAE has established a comprehensive system of laws and registries for the draft and execution of Wills. This has been done for the benefit of the large expatriate community in the UAE who own movable and immovable assets in the country.
“RECONCILIATION IS BETTER” An Initiative to Simplify Legal Proceedings and Promote Amicable Dispute
The Dubai public prosecution has launched an initiative to improve the dispute resolution process in the Emirate. The “Reconciliation is Better” initiative has been introduced in order to promote the resolution of disputes through amicable ways.
Car Ownership in the UAE Obligations Under the UAE Law
The UAE traffic laws are governed by Federal Decree Law No. 14 of 2024 on Traffic Regulation (“Law”).
Are abortions legal in the UAE?
Abortion is the termination of a pregnancy by the removal or expulsion of the embryo or the fetus.
New UAE Law Regulates Finfluencers and Financial Information Provided on Social Media
In the recent years, there has been a boom in social media users who provide financial information to their followers.
Legal Repercussions of Posting Insults on Social Media or Making Derogatory Statements on WhatsApp
With the rise in social media usage and the comfort with which people are expressing their thoughts and views on social media, many users do not realize the real-life implications of their online activities.
Threatening a Wife with Polygamous Cohabitation Legal Consequences
A recent ruling by a UAE court determined that persistent threats by a husband about polygamous cohabitation will be considered to be psychological or mental harm to his wife.
Can a child report abusive parents to the police?
Parents are the foremost guardians in a child’s life, nourishing and protecting them during the most vulnerable stages. Parents are expected to be loving, kind and understanding of their children’s needs.
Towards a Green Future How UAE Government’s New Policies to Combat Climate Change Will Impact Busine
Joining efforts to combat climate change, the UAE has recently published Federal Decree-Law No. 11 of 2024 On Limiting the Impact of Climate Change (“Law”).
The New Personal Status Law in the UAE : Parental Rights, Divorce and its implications
In the UAE, laws governing marriage, divorce, child custody, inheritance etc. are known as personal status laws. Until April 2025, these laws were regulated by Federal Decree Law No. 28 of 2005 (“Old Law”).
The UAE Implemented New VAT Regulations for Precious Metals and Jewellery
The UAE implemented new VAT regulations under Cabinet Decision No. 127/2024 concerning the implementation of the reverse charge mechanism on precious metals and gemstones among VAT-registered businesses in the state.
Are apartment partitions allowed under UAE law?
With an enormous population of expatriates in the UAE, a large number of people choose to live in co-living spaces as they are an economical option.
The UAE traffic laws are stipulated under Federal Decree Law No. 14 of 2024. These laws are applicable throughout the UAE, across the seven Emirates.
Is divorce through WhatsApp valid under UAE Law?
In the UAE, divorce and related matters are governed by the UAE family Law. Due to the presence of various communities coexisting in the country, the UAE government has enacted separate laws for Muslim and non-Muslim citizens and residents.
Medical negligence and it's liabilities under UAE Law
Medical practitioners form one of the most important professions in the world. The significance of this profession results in a high number of responsibilities on individuals in the medical field.
Dubai Introduces A New Law for the Protection of the Emblems
The New Dubai Emblem Law (Law No. (1) of 2025) was implemented by the government of Dubai to regulate the use of emblems for the Emirate of Dubai and the government of Dubai.
Understanding the New Public Health Law in Dubai
The government of Dubai enacted the new public health law, Dubai Law No. 5 of 2025, to promote public health in the emirate.
How does the UAE laws address the issue of defaulting on a bank loan?
Loan defaults are considered as serious legal issue in the UAE.
Dying without a Will: Risks and Remedies
A will is a legal document that contains instructions regarding the disposal of assets, after a person’s death (“Will”).
Federal Decree Law No. 41/2024 and its changes to the Personal Status Law for Muslims in the UAE
In the UAE, laws governing marriage, divorce, child custody, inheritance etc. are known as personal status laws.