With 25 years of unmatched experience, our lawyers possess unparalleled local, regional, and international expertise. Licensed to appear in all courts, we offer exceptional counsel in commercial, civil, and criminal litigation. Our extensive knowledge of the UAE court system and strong relationships with experts, regulators, and judges enable us to shape the local legal landscape and achieve outstanding results. Additionally, as pioneers of arbitration in the UAE, we have a reputation for representing clients insignificant disputes under DIAC, arbitrateAD (formerly ADCCAC), ICC, SCCA, IICRA and LCIA among others.
The Horizons Difference
Embodying the spirit of leader Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Horizons & Co. is a testament to the visionary leadership that defines the UAE.
Founded in 1999, our firm is rooted in the principles of excellence, innovation, and diversity, driven by an unwavering commitment to delivering results and creating opportunities for our clients where others may see obstacles.
Over time, we have cultivated a significant regional and international client base and established ourselves as leaders in the legal field. We work with corporate institutions, international law firms, family businesses, government and semi-government entities, and high-net-worth individuals and UHNWI, guiding them through the intricacies of UAE law to ensure their commercial aims are achieved.
Born local, we are proud ambassadors of the UAE’s juridical landscape, committed to guiding clients to success and furthering the development of UAE law, including its alignment with international law and its promotion on the global stage.
Our vision is simple - to provide exceptional client service, enriched with cultural diversity while upholding international standards. We work alongside key stakeholders within our clients' businesses, enabling them to realise their strategic goals and supporting them proactively in their growth as they look to the future.
Founder and Managing Partner’s Message
Adv. Ali Al Zarooni is the Founder and Managing Partner of Horizons & Co. Ali graduated from The University of the United Arab Emirates with a degree in Sharia Law in 1997, founding the firm two years later.
Originating as a small firm of three lawyers, Horizons & Co. now employs over 75+ staff, with our lawyers admitted to the bar of multiple jurisdictions around the world, including England & Wales, Australia and New York.
We continuously grow and strive for excellence, seeking to create a better future for our clients, employees, and our community. Our firm is internationally recognised as a market leader for dispute resolution in the UAE, by our peers, clients, and the leading legal directories.
Our core values
Our values reflect our history, shape our distinctive culture, and are a fundamental factor in why clients choose us. They capture the ethos of our firm and enable us to deliver on the promises we make to our clients and our people.
Our core values are
- Integrity
- Openness and transparency
- Excellence
- Service orientation
- Innovation
- Tolerance and inclusivity
- Forward-thinking approach
- Collaboration
Integrity and Impact
- Expertise
- Trusted partners
Placing our clients at the forefront of our practice means we intimately understand their perspectives, priorities, and challenges. As more than just legal advisors, we act as strategic partners, guiding them through intricate legal and business terrains. We foster enduring relationships by gaining a deep understanding our clients’ strategic objectives, and anticipating industry and regulatory change to ensure they remain ahead of the competition.
- Global Vision, Local Roots
Founded in the UAE and united by diverse nationalities, Horizons & Co. has always been global, providing expert counsel on UAE and international law. Our diverse team holds licences to practise in multiple jurisdictions, to the benefit of our wide-ranging international client base. Embracing inclusivity, tolerance, and collaboration, we champion a unified approach that fosters innovation, flexibility, and responsiveness. This one-firm approach cultivates an environment conducive to the success of both our employees and clients.
- Transparent Value, Results-Driven
Recognising the significance of transparent communication, we prioritise keeping our clients informed of all legal and financial developments throughout the course of their matters. Our commitment is to consistently deliver exceptional value and bespoke services tailored to each client's requirements. Grounded in a thorough comprehension of our clients' businesses and their respective markets, our approach is driven by a focused perspective from the outset. As outcome-driven firm who take a value-add approach, we are dedicated to forging a successful future for our clients.
Awards & Recognition
Case studies
Explore our detailed case studies, demonstrating how we have supported our clients in complex, intricate, and high-value matters.
Case Study
Read moreA group of individuals being sought for extradition by the government of the United Kingdom
Our extradition experts, led by our Managing Partner Ali Al Zarooni, were chosen to defend of a group of individuals, three brothers, accused of various financial-related crimes against an extradition request lodged by the Government of the United Kingdom.
Case Study
Read moreDubai Islamic Bank in a dispute relating to the financial facility agreement for the financing of a construction project
We are representing Dubai Islamic Bank, as a claimant, in a dispute arising out of the execution of a financial facility agreement for the financing of a construction project.
Case Study
Read moreHorizon Gulf Electromechanical Services LLC as a subcontractor on a construction project that has become the source of an almost AED 240 million dispute
We acted for Horizon Gulf Electromechanical Services LLC as a subcontractor on a construction project that has become the source of an almost AED 240 million dispute. Our client is the claimant before the Dubai Courts, in relation to the construction of Al Jalila Children’s Specialty Hospital.
Timeline
2024
Horizons & Co. celebrates it's 25 anniversary and wins UAE Law Firm of the Year for Disputes: Domestic at the Chambers Middle East Awards. Founder and Managing Partner Ali Al Zarooni wins Expert of the Year at the Lexis Nexis Middle East Awards and the firm achieves Honourable Mention in the Case of the Year Category. Additionally, the Firm signs a Collaboration Agreement with leading full-service Omani firm Dr. Saif Al Rawahi Advocates, Advisors, and Corporate Consultants (DSA), increasing its regional offering for clients.
2023
The firms partnership grows and the employee count increases to over 75.
2022
Dr. Mohamed Mahrous, a long-term litigation legal consultant at the firm, is promoted to partner.
2019
Receives recognition in Chambers & Partners and Legal 500 directories
2018
Managing Partner Ali Al Zarooni becomes the first UAE lawyer to cultivate a focused extradition practice, handling numerous high-profile cases.
2016
Dual-qualified Partner Areen Jayousi brings further dispute resolution and arbitration expertise to the senior management team.
2015
Relocates to Burj Al Salam in Dubai’s World Trade Center, undergoes a rebranding, and expands to over 50 employees. Initiates an Arbitration practice and hires an in-house English and Wales qualified barrister.
2010 - 2011
Expands and moves into larger offices in Dubai and opens a second office in Abu Dhabi.
2008 - 2009
Horizons relocates its offices to Burjuman, continuing its upward growth trajectory, aligning with international law practices, pioneering specific expertise levels. The firm initiates a longstanding relationship with the University of Sharjah for hiring and supporting law graduates.
2007
Adv. Ali Al Zarooni becomes the sole Managing Partner, Mahiyar Jehangir joins as senior partner to spearhead technological advancements and further professionalisation of the firm.
2004
The firm doubles in size and initiates partnerships with international law firms to provide local UAE legal support, a practice integral to our current operations.
8th August 1999
Founded with support from the UAE government, the firm numbers six employees in total.
At Horizon’s & Co, we recognise that the role of a modern law firm extends beyond resolving disputes—it involves fostering ethical practices, promoting fairness and contributing to a more sustainable future. As global challenges such as climate change, social inequality, and economic shifts continue to shape the legal landscape, we are committed to driving responsible change within our industry.
- Diversity & Inclusion
At Horizon’s & Co, we believe that diversity and inclusion are fundamental to delivering meaningful legal solutions and driving innovation in dispute resolution. We recognise that the strength of our firm lies in the unique backgrounds, perspectives and experiences of our team members.
We are committed to fostering a culture where everyone—regardless of race, gender, age, nationality, religion, disability or socioeconomic background—feels valued, respected and empowered to contribute their best work.
- Social Responsibility
We encourage our team to engage in pro bono work, offering legal expertise to support community initiatives, access to justice and non-profit organisations focused on social equity. We focus on initiatives that support underserved communities and amplify the voices of those who may not otherwise have access to legal resources.
- Environmental Responsibility
We are dedicated to reducing our environmental impact and contributing to Dubai’s efforts to become a global hub for sustainability. We adopt environmentally responsible practices within our office spaces, including minimising waste, conserving energy, and using sustainable technologies. We promote paperless operations, reduce our reliance on single-use materials, and implement recycling initiatives in line with the UAE's national sustainability goals, such as Vision 2021 and the UAE Green Agenda.
- Empowering Women in Business at Horizons & Co
At Horizons & Co, we believe that diversity drives innovation, fosters resilience and cultivates long-term success. As part of our ongoing commitment to inclusion and sustainability, we are dedicated to supporting women in business by creating an environment where every woman can thrive, lead and contribute meaningfully to our shared success.
Our Vision for an Inclusive Future
At Horizon’s & Co, diversity and inclusion are not just policies—they are core values that shape our approach to legal practice. We are committed to creating an environment where everyone can thrive, contribute meaningfully, and drive positive change both within the legal profession and beyond. Together, we will continue to build a workplace that reflects the diversity of our clients, our communities and the world we aim to serve.
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