Vinson & Elkins closes Abu Dhabi office

Vinson & Elkins has become the latest firm to close in Abu Dhabi, with all staff set to relocate to its Dubai office.

Vinson & Elkins has stated in a release that following a strategic review, the Management Committee has voted to consolidate the firm’s Middle East practice into two offices in Dubai and Riyadh and to close the Abu Dhabi office at the end of March. The firm further added, “ We consistently monitor all of the markets we serve to ensure that our practices are in alignment with client needs and the firm’s overall strategic goals. The Middle East remains a key part of our international practice, and we expect this consolidation will have minimal impact on our ability to serve clients in the region.” All staff in Abu Dhabi, including partner Rob Patterson, will move to Dubai.

The firm follows other international law firms such as Simmons & Simmons, Latham & Watkins, Herbert Smith Freehills and Baker Botts who have retreated from the capital over the past 12 months.