Managing Associate
Murtaza is a leading banking and finance lawyer, specialising in sustainable finance and complex cross-border transactions across the Middle East.
Language – English
Jurisdictions – England & Wales, India, UAE
Murtaza specialises in working with an array of leading lenders and corporate borrowers in navigating through the technical legal and commercial nuisances which are unique to the Middle East and Africa regions in relation to some of their strategically important mandates, both from a market and business operational perspective, which are often cross-border in nature.
His expertise spans syndicated, project, trade, sustainable, real estate, and Islamic financings, and structured transactions, with a particular focus on renewable energy and ESG-driven deals. Whether advising on multi-billion-dollar project financings, innovative Islamic structures, or cross-border syndicated facilities, Murtaza brings commercial insight, technical precision, and strategic thinking to every transaction.
He's regularly called upon by prominent regional and international financial institutions major energy companies, and leading infrastructure providers, not just for his deep technical knowledge, but also for his innovative approach to complex legal challenges and his ability to deliver practical solutions under pressure.
Murtaza has been instrumental in several award-winning transactions, including novel sustainable finance solutions and landmark infrastructure projects. His work consistently demonstrates how sophisticated legal structuring can drive commercial success while advancing sustainability objectives across the region.
Multi-Million Dollar Green Energy Financing
Advised major renewable energy company on securing term loan facility from regional bank to refinance solar PV assets across GCC region, supporting renewable energy growth aligned with COP28 objectives.
State-of-the-Art Container Terminal
Acted as sponsor's counsel for landmark PPP joint venture between regional port authority and international terminal operator, facilitating senior secured term loan for new container terminal construction. This was awarded "Transportation Deal of the Year" at the IJ Global MENA Awards 2024.
US$503 Million Syndicated Facility
Led legal counsel role for treasury management entity on complex syndicated facilities agreement including accordion feature, coordinating across multiple jurisdictions and international lender syndicate.
US$252 Million Oil Refinery Development
Advised sponsors on project financing for major oil refinery development in Iraq, managing complex cross-border legal requirements and innovative financing structures.
US$34.4 Million Sustainability-Linked Murabaha
Structured innovative AAOIFI-compliant sustainability-linked term facility for food processing company, combining Islamic finance principles with ESG performance metrics.
International Bank - Cross-Border Trade Finance
Facilitated numerous deals providing working capital and trade financing solutions across multiple jurisdictions, supporting business growth in dynamic UAE market.
AED 500 Million Commodity Murabaha
Prepared and negotiated financing documents ensuring compliance with AAOIFI Standard 59 and UAE Central Bank requirements, navigating divergent interpretations among UAE banks.
US$110 Million ECA-Backed Murabaha
Advised borrower on Italian ECA-backed commodity murabaha financing, ensuring compliance with AAOIFI standards and UAE Central Bank Shari'a requirements.
Multi-Million Cross-Border Securitisation
Led complex off-balance sheet receivables securitisation across eight jurisdictions, demonstrating expertise in innovative structured finance solutions.
US$50 Million Murabaha and Wakala Structure
Advised leading Islamic banking group on obtaining Sharia-compliant financing from International Finance Corporation, structuring complex wakala agreement.