French-based firm Gide claims to be the first international legal practice to practise in the newly opened Iranian market under its own name. The firm announced today that it has obtained a license to practise in the Middle East’s second biggest  economic power. 

Several firms including Dentons and CMS have set up ventures in Iran since the lifting of international sanctions in January 2016, but until now have operated through associations with local firms. Tehran remains subject to US sanctions.  

Gide Loyrette Nouel is one of only a handful of international firms to have originated on the European continent. The 600-lawyer firm with offices in 15 worldwide locations, said opening in Tehran would enable it to support French and international companies in Iran, and assist local companies in their international operations, both in an advisory and litigation capacity.

Mehrnoosh Aryanpour, partner in charge of Gide Tehran, said: ’The Iranian market is growing rapidly, and through this office we hope to fully support French companies looking to continue their expansion to Iran. With a view to offering our clients the best possible assistance, we are looking to set up a local team that will be entirely composed of highly talented local and international lawyers, drawn from among the best in their generation.’