DWS throws energy head into Dubai equation

Denton Wilde Sapte (DWS) is continuing its expansion in Dubai after relocating former energy head David Courtenay-Hatcher to the growing office. London partner Ian Hodgson has been drafted in to replace Courtenay-Hatcher in the head of energy role.

Courtenay-Hatcher is relocating to Dubai to take up the firm's newly-created post of head of construction and engineering for the Middle East. He is expected to take up his new role formally in September.

The move comes just months after the Dubai office acquired senior dispute resolution capability for the first time, following the relocation of arbitration and litigation partner Michael Kerr from London.

Dubai's radical economic growth, particularly in the real estate and infrastructure markets, has provided rich pickings for UK firms. DWS is currently advising the developers on the $1.1bn (£600m) mixed-use resort development on the Palm Jumeirah, as well as acting for Nymex on the establishment of a Dubai energy and metals futures exchange.

DWS's eight-partner Dubai office has grown dramatically since 2001, from nine lawyers to 28 today. Earlier this year, the firm expanded its office space in Dubai by a third in response to the growth.