By Alex Hepworth
Across the sector, firms have activated crisis management protocols, expanded remote working arrangements and reviewed mobility policies. At the same time, firms are considering how relocation decisions, cross-office staffing and longer-term workforce planning may be affected.
Remote working and operational continuity
One of the most immediate responses has been the move to remote working. Many firms built strong remote service delivery models during the pandemic, allowing lawyers to continue working even when travel or local conditions become unpredictable.
Firms with offices across the Middle East have advised staff to work remotely during recent escalations. These decisions are precautionary rather than permanent operational changes, but they demonstrate how firms can maintain continuity regardless of location.
Several international firms have already activated these measures. Firms including White & Case, Baker McKenzie, Freshfields, Simmons & Simmons and A&O Shearman have advised lawyers in the region to work from home while monitoring the situation closely. Other firms such as Clifford Chance, DLA Piper and Clyde & Co have continued operating while implementing precautionary safety protocols and contingency planning.
Remote working also helps reassure clients that legal services can continue without interruption. For firms advising on cross-border transactions, arbitration and regulatory work, continuity of service remains essential.
Crisis planning and employee support
International law firms operating across multiple locations typically have established crisis management frameworks. These involve monitoring developments, providing security guidance to staff and ensuring leadership teams are prepared to respond quickly.
Some firms have expanded the support available to employees. Measures may include travel guidance, temporary relocation options, access to external security advisers and wellbeing support. In some cases, firms have also engaged specialist security consultants to provide guidance on developments in the region.
Clear communication is also a key part of crisis planning. Many firms provide regular internal updates, so employees understand both the situation and the support available.
Differences between international and regional firms
Not all firms are responding in the same way. International firms with global networks often rely on crisis management policies that apply across offices and may include remote working or temporary relocation options.
Regional firms, particularly those based in Gulf financial centres such as Dubai and Riyadh, may take a more localised approach. In many cases, business activity continues largely as normal, and firms may see large operational changes as unnecessary.
These differences reflect the diversity of the Middle East legal market, where major financial centres often remain stable environments for international business.
Talent mobility and relocation decisions
Talent mobility is also playing a role in how firms manage the current environment.
International law firms operate with mobile workforces, and lawyers frequently move between offices for secondments or strategic staffing. During periods of uncertainty, that mobility allows firms to adjust where lawyers are based while maintaining client service.
Rather than closing offices or withdrawing from markets, firms may temporarily redeploy lawyers within their global networks. This may involve short-term secondments, delayed relocations or flexible working arrangements.
For lawyers considering a move to the Middle East, these factors can influence career decisions. Lawyers relocating internationally often consider both career opportunities and the support structures firms have in place.
The role of recruitment
Periods of uncertainty highlight the importance of talent management. Firms must ensure they have the right lawyers in the right locations while remaining flexible in how teams are structured. For us, this involves understanding not only demand for specific practice areas but also the factors influencing lawyer mobility and relocation decisions.
The Middle East legal market has shown resilience through multiple global and regional challenges, and firms continue to adapt their talent strategies as the market evolves.
Contact us
alex.hepworth@wearebuchanan.com
How Law Firms Are Supporting Lawyers in the Middle East During Uncertainty
