Ajmal Khan Nadakkal
Managing Partner
UAE
+971 2 445 9075 / +971 50 451 7950
ajmal@abspartners.ae
COUNTRY OF ADMISSION
UAE
CITY
Abudabi
LOCATION
First Floor, Sama Tower - Office No. 109 - Electra Street - Al Danah - Zone 1 - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Professional Experience
With over 27 years of distinguished legal experience spanning India and the UAE, Mr. Ajmal Khan is a seasoned legal professional widely recognized for his expertise in corporate structuring, commercial dispute resolution, investment advisory, and the emerging fields of blockchain, cryptocurrency, and regulatory compliance.
He began his legal career in India, where he spent eight years building a strong foundation in corporate and commercial litigation. Subsequently, he transitioned to Dubai, where he expanded his expertise in international legal practice and established himself as a trusted figure in the UAE’s legal community. Mr. Khan has a proven track record of successfully resolving complex disputes involving commodity derivative trading, investments, forex, and gold and bullion trading.
His in-depth knowledge of business structuring and strategic advisory has been instrumental in supporting startups in the region, enabling them to access various investment vehicles and funds. Additionally, he has facilitated the entry of numerous foreign startups into the UAE market. Leveraging his extensive experience, Mr. Khan also specializes in providing legal guidance on blockchain technologies, cryptocurrency regulations, and compliance frameworks, helping businesses navigate the evolving legal landscape of digital assets. Beyond dispute resolution,
Mr. Khan is highly sought after for his legal counsel in corporate structuring and restructuring, succession and business continuity planning, and the establishment of trusts and foundations for wealth management and succession planning. Whether navigating intricate legal challenges or crafting forward-looking strategies, Mr. Ajmal Khan continues to be a trusted and reliable legal advisor in the UAE.
Banking & Finance
Represented a UAE-based bank in structuring and documenting a syndicated loan worth USD 300 million for the development of an infrastructure project in the GCC. Advised a leading Islamic bank on creating Sharia-compliant financial products, including Sukuk and Murabaha financing arrangements, tailored for corporate clients. Assisted a fintech company in securing regulatory approval and drafting agreements for a blockchain-based cross-border payment platform in the UAE.
Mergers & Acquisitions
Advised a UAE-based logistics company on acquiring a 60% stake in an Indian e-commerce startup, including due diligence, negotiation, and transaction documentation. Represented an international hospitality group in its acquisition of a boutique hotel chain in the UAE, involving regulatory clearances and complex asset transfers. Assisted a UAE-based energy company in acquiring a controlling stake in a South Asian renewable energy provider, including negotiating shareholder agreements and conducting legal due diligence.
Private Equity & Venture Capital
Advised a sovereign wealth fund based in the UAE on its USD 500 million investment in a series of renewable energy projects across Asia. Guided a private equity fund in structuring a USD 200 million investment in a fintech startup in the MENA region, including regulatory compliance and transaction documentation. Assisted a high-net-worth individual in negotiating and executing a joint venture agreement for a USD 100 million luxury real estate development in Dubai.
Arbitration
Successfully represented a UAE-based commodities trader in a USD 50 million dispute involving derivatives trading contracts with an international counterparty. Mediated a high-stakes commercial dispute between two regional financial institutions, ensuring an amicable resolution that preserved both parties’ business relationships. Defended a global gold trading company in an arbitration case involving allegations of contractual breaches, resulting in a favorable settlement for the client.
Corporate & Commercial
Advised a multinational conglomerate on restructuring its UAE operations into a holding company structure, optimizing for tax efficiency and compliance with local regulations. Assisted a leading Indian technology firm in setting up its regional headquarters in Dubai, structuring its business operations to comply with UAE’s free zone and mainland regulations. Guided a Middle Eastern family office in establishing a diversified investment holding company across the GCC and India, including drafting shareholder agreements and governance frameworks.