Blake Cassels sets up Middle East outposts

The firm has agreed a ­formal alliance with local Saudi Arabian firm Saudi Al-Amari in Al-Khobar as well as launching in Bahrain. Both offices will open their doors in autumn this year.

Dan Fournier, a partner in the firm’s energy and finance practice, will be leading the firm’s initiative in the region.

Blake Cassels chairman Brock Gibson said: “The Middle East is a growing area of opportunity for our Canadian clients.”

The firm will focus on energy, infrastructure, ­corporate, banking and technology in its Middle East offices.

Focusing on serving its Canadian client base, Blake Cassels has launched ­several ­international offices in recent years.

The firm has had an office in London since 1986 an in 2004 became the first ­Canadian firm to launch in Chicago.

Gibson said: “Our offices in the US, China and the UK and our ongoing efforts in India and Europe have ­contributed to our ability to help clients capitalise on emerging markets in the international arena.”