Nic Henrikson (pictured) has been appointed as the co-managing partner of DLA Piper’s Muscat (Oman) office, having come across from Addleshaw Goddard.

He is originally from Queensland, having begun his career at fellow BigLaw firm MinterEllison before relocating to the Middle East in 2017.

The appointment will bolster the depth of DLA Piper’s client offering in Oman, the firm said in a statement, and “comes at an opportune time”, given the sultanate’s rapidly expanding tourism, LNG and green hydrogen industries.

He brings, the firm continued, extensive experience in commercial and construction disputes before major arbitral institutions, having acted for several private and public entities in the energy and infrastructure sectors, including both multinationals and leading Omani companies.

He previously served as secretary of the Australian Oman Business Group and has acted for several Australian companies in the Gulf state.

The news follows the firm’s addition of a senior associate from Herbert Smith Freehills for its renewable energy practice in August and its naming of two new Australia-based partners in April.

Speaking about the appointment, DLA Piper partner and global co-chair of litigation and regulatory Paul Hopman said: “Nic’s appointment comes at an exciting time for the firm in Oman and across the wider region.

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“Nic’s experience and insight will allow them to navigate complexity and benefit from his astute advice in a dynamic market. His mix of experience across the public and private sector complements our existing capabilities, and we are excited to welcome him to the firm.”

The firm’s managing partner in the Middle East and Africa, Peter Somekh, said: “Nic will be a real asset to our team in Oman and across the region. He is highly regarded and brings with him a wealth of cross-sector experience that will benefit our clients.

“With a number of our clients engaged in market-leading commercial and construction projects in Oman, Nic will be a valued addition to our team deploying his knowledge and experience of the local market for the benefit of our clients.”

Andrew Mackenzie, who heads up the firm’s litigation, arbitration, and regulatory practice in the Middle East, said: “Nic is an excellent addition to the team, not only for our growing Oman practice but also our regional dispute resolution presence.

“He brings a unique skill set and fantastic client relationships, which will truly benefit from DLA Piper’s global platform.”