Dechert strengthens M&A and private equity

Mr. Bekdur's extensive experience in corporate transactional matters makes him a valuable addition as the firm seeks to deepen its impact in the region.

With over a decade of expertise across the UK and United Arab Emirates, Bekdur has successfully navigated complex cross-border transactions for leading global funds, corporates, and alternative capital managers. His experience also extends to advising sovereign wealth funds, where he brings a nuanced understanding of their operational frameworks and needs. Dechert, already a longstanding advisor to major sovereign wealth entities, is set to benefit from his knowledge, as described by Mark Thierfelder, co-chair of Dechert, who stated, “With his deep understanding of the Gulf Cooperation Council and adjacent markets, and his strong relationships with sovereign wealth funds, regional private equity and alternative capital investors, Adnan is a strong strategic fit for our business as we continue to build out our platform in the Middle East.”

Ken Young, co-chair of Dechert's corporate and securities practice, highlighted the significance of Bekdur's appointment, saying, “Adnan's arrival marks an exciting time for Dechert as we continue to strengthen our global private equity, M&A and sovereign wealth capabilities. Adnan will be instrumental in driving our ability to win and execute complex cross-border corporate transactions throughout the Middle East region.” This new role is viewed as a pivotal move for the firm, indicating its commitment to expanding its corporate presence in this vital market.

Bekdur himself expressed enthusiasm for joining Dechert: “Dechert has a world-class M&A and private equity practice, a preeminent client base and a stellar reputation for navigating some of the largest, most complex transactions in the industry, making this an unparalleled opportunity. I am looking forward to working with colleagues across the firm to support the firm's continued growth.”

The addition of Bekdur marks an ongoing trend for Dechert in 2026, as he becomes one of over 50 lateral partners welcomed this year. This strategy underlines the firm’s goal to enhance its capabilities in mergers and acquisitions, capital markets, and related sectors.

Located in the Dubai International Financial Centre, Dechert has successfully advised clients on numerous projects and transactions in the MENA region for more than a decade. The firm is well-equipped to offer private equity, investment funds, Islamic finance, and capital markets guidance, with Bekdur’s hiring significantly improving its M&A transactional abilities.

For more than 40 years, Dechert has led the way in advising private equity firms while also catering to private credit clients for over 30 years. With a globally integrated team of more than 500 lawyers, the firm is capable of providing comprehensive legal solutions throughout the entire private capital investment lifecycle, covering everything from fundraising to exit strategies. Recognised as one of the top law firms for U.S. and Global PE Buyouts and Global M&A by Bloomberg and others, Dechert is committed to maintaining its high standards and reputation in the legal field.