City firm Denton Wilde Sapte has become the first foreign law firm to open an office in Dubai Internet City, providing advice to technology, media and telecoms clients based there.

It is Dentons' 18th office worldwide, and fifth in the Middle East.

It already has an office in Dubai.

Dubai Internet City is a free trade zone offering foreign companies 100% tax-free ownership, 100% repatriation of capital and profits, no currency restrictions, easy registration and licensing, as well as stringent cyber regulations and protection of intellectual property.

Microsoft, Oracale, HP, IBM and Compaq are just some of the companies in the city.

Neil Cuthbert, managing partner of the Dubai office, said: 'Our position as an international full-service law firm will enable us to provide the complete range of legal services required by our free zone partners and therefore expand our Middle East and international client base.'

Meanwhile, US firm McDermott Will & Emery has made a major advance into Italy by merging with top 20-partner local firm Carnelutti, which had previously spurned several offers to merge with foreign practices.