Alexander Malahias Joins Akin To Co-Lead Riyadh Office Launch

Alexander Malahias Joins Akin To Co-Lead Riyadh Office Launch

Akin has announced that Alexander Malahias has joined the firm’s corporate practice to co-lead the launch of its upcoming Riyadh office. Until the firm receives final regulatory approvals, Malahias will be based in Akin’s Abu Dhabi office.

Malahias is a seasoned project finance lawyer, advising government entities, financial institutions, corporate clients, and sponsors on high-profile transactions across Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and the broader Middle East. His experience spans key sectors, including energy transition projects, large-scale tourism and real estate, oil & gas, petrochemicals, power & utilities, and infrastructure. His addition also strengthens Akin’s energy transition team, enhancing the firm’s offerings in this evolving sector.

Abid Qureshi, Akin’s co-chair elect, highlighted the importance of the firm’s expansion in Saudi Arabia: “Our upcoming launch in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is a critical piece of our long-term growth strategy. We continue to see sustained, long-term growth in the Middle East, and this is the next step in building out our capabilities in the region. Our clients are seeking trusted advisors with deep local insight.”

Malahias has built strong client relationships, particularly with Red Sea Global and NEOM, aligning with Akin’s practice strengths and reinforcing the firm’s presence in the Middle East.

Sebastian Rice, Partner-in-Charge of Akin’s international markets, said: “Alex is a dealmaker with a keen understanding of the Middle East legal landscape, and his extensive experience will be a great asset as we continue to grow our presence in the region. His presence in Saudi Arabia will allow us to provide seamless support to our clients across key jurisdictions.”

Expressing his excitement about the move, Malahias said: “I am thrilled to join Akin at such a dynamic time for the firm and the Middle East market. Akin’s ambitious plans in the region, its market-leading project finance practice, and its forward-thinking approach present a unique opportunity to drive meaningful impact for our clients. The firm is deeply committed to the region and building its presence in the Kingdom, and I look forward to contributing to its continued success there.”