Ed Crosse to head Simmons & Simmons’ Middle East disputes and investigations practice in Dubai

Simmons & Simmons has announced that Ed Crosse, a highly experienced Disputes and Investigations partner has moved from London to Dubai to lead the Middle East Disputes and Investigations team, further strengthening the firm’s presence and capabilities in the region.

Crosse’s appointment marks a significant milestone in Simmons & Simmons’ Middle East expansion plans, aligning with the firm’s strategic objectives to enhance its market position and deliver exceptional service to clients across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and the wider region.

With three decades of experience, Crosse has built a reputation as a client-focused and technically excellent litigator, specialising in complex financial services litigation, international arbitration, and investigations. He acts for clients across a range of sectors and has particular expertise in commercial and civil fraud claims arising from or into the UAE, Switzerland, and Eastern Europe.

He succeeds Payam Beheshti, who has successfully led the Middle East Disputes and Investigations team for five years. Under Beheshti’s leadership, the practice has built a strong reputation for advising on complex disputes, regulatory and corporate investigations across the region. Beheshti will continue to focus on his practice and will work closely with Crosse to ensure continuity and excellence in delivering first-class service to clients as the team enters its next phase of growth.

Ed Crosse, partner, commented, “I am thrilled to be moving to Dubai to lead our Middle East Disputes and Investigations team. This underscores Simmons & Simmons’ commitment to deliver world-class legal services to our clients. I look forward to supporting our clients in dealing with their most complex challenges. The Middle East is a dynamic and rapidly evolving market, and I am excited to contribute to its growth.”

Muneer Khan, Middle East regional head, added, “Ed’s appointment in Dubai will play a key role in strengthening our disputes and investigations offering in the region. This move is central to our wider strategy of continually deepening our presence in the Middle East, ensuring that we are well-positioned to support our clients with the highest level of expertise and service. Ed’s outstanding track record and client-focused approach will be a tremendous asset to our clients and our team.”

Payam Beheshti, partner, commented, “After five years leading the Disputes & Investigations practice in the Middle East, I’m delighted to hand over the reins to Ed for the next chapter of our journey. Having worked alongside Ed since the early stages of my career in 2006, I’ve seen first-hand what an outstanding disputes lawyer he is. I have no doubt that his arrival will be a catalyst for major growth across the region, particularly as demand for highly skilled complex disputes lawyers continues to rise. I’m genuinely excited about the opportunities that lie ahead.”

The new appointment enables Simmons to meet the growing demand for its integrated services in the UAE and the wider region, particularly in the areas of Banking, Financial Services, Asset Management, Investment Funds and commercial claims involving allegations of civil fraud.

Crosse’s appointment follows the firm’s recent announcement in July of plans to set up a new office in the ADGM, Abu Dhabi, following the official opening in June of its new office in Riyadh.