Global financial firm Lazard bets on UAE growth with Abu Dhabi office launch

Global financial major Lazard announced its strategic expansion into the UAE, establishing its financial advisory main office in Abu Dhabi.

The move is seen as the company’s commitment to deepening its presence in MENA, serving as a trusted advisor to clients across the region.

Commencement of operations, however, will be subject to regulatory approval, the company said.

Chairman and CEO Peter R. Orszag, said: “We are excited to reinforce our presence in the UAE, a country of strategic importance and remarkable opportunity. By establishing Abu Dhabi as the hub for financial advisory in the country, we enhance our capacity to provide tailored advice to our clients in one of the world’s most dynamic markets.”

As a key part of the expansion, Lazard has appointed Hussain Altajir as CEO of Lazard Financial Advisory in UAE.

Hussain Altajir will work closely with Sarah Al Suhaimi, Chairwoman, and Wassim Al Khatib, CEO of Financial Advisory for the MENA region, in expanding the company’s engagement with clients in the region.

Before joining Lazard, Altajir served as Head of Dubai Coverage – Global Banking at HSBC.