CIS-based AML expert ‘Uppercase Legal Advisory’ opens office in UAE

Sajjad Ahmad, Deputy Business Editor

Uppercase, a leading international legal advisory, announced the official launch of ‘Uppercase Legal Advisory’ in Dubai. The firm specialises in providing expertise in key areas such as compliance in UAE Anti-money Laundering (AML), Counter-terrorism Financing (CFT) and Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Compliance, addressing CFT, Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A), and Trade Law.

The launch was chaired by Abdulla Baqer, Regional Director of Middle East and CIS at Dubai Chamber, who provided key perspectives on the latest trade boost between UAE, Middle East and Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) as well as the positive role of trade law firms who specialise in compliance.

The launch event featured insights from Alexander Kukuev, Managing Partner at Uppercase Legal, who shared valuable information about the firm's focus on supporting UAE businesses in navigating the complex legal landscapes. Abdulla Baqer highlighted the significance of trade law firms, saying: "Today, we acknowledge the latest trade boost between UAE, Middle East, Eurasia and CIS as well as the positive role of trade law firms in business compliance.

Uppercase Legal's entry into the UAE is timely and aligns with the current positive trajectory of trade between the UAE and the rest of the world. We anticipate their valuable contributions to the business community in terms of growth and compliance." Uppercase Legal is a key player in addressing the legal challenges between government relations and the dynamic business landscape in the MENA region. 

The firm's specialisation includes international support for holdings, financial and industrial groups, and family offices, and ensuring those for compliance with UAE AML, CFT and FATF regulations. Dubai, known as the business capital of the world, serves as an ideal hub for Uppercase Legal to provide such specialized services. Many clients from various jurisdictions choose the UAE for its flexible low-tax regime, world-class infrastructure, and business-friendly government approach.

Alexander Kukuev, Managing Partner at Uppercase Legal Advisory, emphasized the importance of compliance with AML regulations, stating, "Complying with AML regulations is vital for the business and reputation. UAE, having already become the world’s leader in business migration and investment paradise, requires its corporate residents to maintain and correspond to such high standards."

Speaking about Uppercase Legal's mission, Mr Kukuev added, "UAE, specifically Dubai, is the business capital of the world, and Uppercase Legal is committed to strengthening and country’s thriving business environment. We, at Uppercase Legal, share first-hand information about UAE AML and FATF compliance, M&A, and Trade Law, showcasing how our firm supports UAE businesses in these complex processes."

Highlighting recent successes, Kukuev shared, "Our most recent project ended up with successful development of AML policy for the subsidiary of a top-10 local real estate developer. We know AML, FATF, and CFT, and won’t let you fail!", Kukuev asserted. Throughout a year of establishment in 2023, Uppercase Legal facilitated the expansion of globally recognized marketplaces, leading development groups, a MedTech giant, and several regional trading and FinTech companies.

The firm conducted over 1,000 consultations, M&A transactions, and setups, establishing itself as an official partner of the International Free Zone Authority (IFZA). Looking ahead to 2024, Uppercase Legal aims to become an influential player in the MENA legal market, enhancing the region's investment attractiveness and fostering LegalTech development.

For legal awareness, the firm plans a series of business breakfasts featuring renowned opinion leaders, potentially including Hazzaa Al Mansoori, the first UAE astronaut, to promote knowledge exchange and industry collaboration.