The Most Influential Leaders in Legal Services, 2024

www.thedubaileaders.com December, 2024 Hossam Zakaria CEO and Founder HZ Legal Hossam Hossam Zakaria Zakaria Enhancing Legal Services with Technology and Innovation

“Legal services are the cornerstone of justice, ensuring that fairness prevails and rights are protected.”

Victors of Justice L egal services have always shaped society, businesses, and governance. The leaders featured in this edition stand out for their expertise and ability to reshape the way legal solutions are delivered and perceived. They represent the highest standards of excellence, innovation, and dedication in a profession that demands precision, integrity, and strategic thinking. In 2024, the legal profession continues to witness remarkable contributions from individuals who bridge traditional practices with the demands of modern-day clients. These leaders have showcased exceptional corporate law, compliance, intellectual property, and dispute resolution understanding. More importantly, they have taken significant strides in making legal services more accessible, equitable, and effective for a global audience. The transformative work of these professionals extends beyond courtrooms and boardrooms. Through mentorship, community engagement, and policy advocacy, they actively contribute to bettering legal systems and the societies they serve. Their dedication to upholding justice while navigating the intricacies of legal frameworks demonstrates their commitment to excellence. This edition brings achievements and the vision and resilience defining these leaders. They are at the forefront of developing solutions that respond to technological advancements, international regulatory shifts, and the growing need for ethical legal practices. Their stories inspire current and future generations to strive for impact and uphold the principles of justice and fairness. Editor’s These leaders remind us that the legal profession is not just about laws but also leadership, innovation, and the unwavering pursuit of justice! Desk Preston B.

Cover story CONTENTS 08 Hossam Zakaria Enhancing Legal Services with Technology and Innovation Articles 16 Embracing Change and Expanding Access Legal Services in the 21st Century Overcoming Legal Advice The Rise of Online Legal Pla?orms 20

www.thedubaileaders.com Editor-in-Chief Merry D'Souza Managing Editor Executive Editor Assistant Editors Preston B. Jenny F. Michael W. Art & Design Director Associate Designer Visualizer David King Rosy Scott Angela Ruskin Senior Sales Managers Business Development Manager Brain Moody, Jack McDowell Mark Hassan Marketing Manager Sales Executives James M. Max Floyd Technical Head Business Development Executives Jacob Smile Simon, Tom Company Name Featured Person Brief Technical Specialist Digital Marketing Manager Dominique T. Irvin Wilson Abduraheem is a seasoned Corporate Lawyer with over a decade of experience across the Gulf region, specializing in corporate transactions, dispute resolution, and strategic legal consulting. Abduraheem Padinhare Senior Legal Manager CARS24 Arabia cars24.ae Research Analyst SME-SMO Executive Frank Adams Steve Rodrigues Alaa is dedicated to delivering tailored legal solutions with a broad perspective, leveraging over six years of expertise across diverse practice areas. Horizons & Co Law Firm horizlaw.ae Alaa Morad Legal Consultant Database Management Technology Consultant Circulation Manager Desislava is an European-qualified lawyer with 13+ years of expertise in the ICT sector across Europe and the Middle East, specializing in legal counsel, project management, and vendor relations. Stella Andrew David Stokes Robert Brown Ingram Micro ingrammicro.com Desislava Stankova Director Legal sales@thedubaileaders.com December, 2024 As the CEO and Founder, Hossam focuses on interpreting laws, mitigating risks, and crafting solutions aligned with clients' strategic objectives. HZ Legal hzlegal.ae Hossam Zakaria CEO and Founder www.linkedin.com/company/the-dubai-leaders/ Follow us on : www.facebook.com/thedubaileaders/ King Abdullah Financial District Development and Management Company kafd.sa With over 16 years in C-suite legal roles, James has led diverse teams and managed legal strategy, compliance, and operations for multi-billion-dollar giga and mega projects across the Middle East and the United States. James Weier Chief Legal Officer We are also available on : Copyright © 2024 The Dubai Leaders, All rights reserved. The content and images used in this magazine should not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior permission from The Dubai Leaders. Reprint rights remain solely with The Dubai Leaders.

COVER STORY Hossam Zakaria Hossam Zakaria CEO and Founder HZ Legal Enhancing Legal Services with Technology and Innovation “ With a keen understanding of the challenges involved in legal practice, Hossam cultivates a culture of continuous learning and strategic thinking.”

The Most Influen?al Leaders in Legal Services, 2024 “ Hossam Zakaria, CEO and Founder of HZ Legal, demonstrates the qualities of a transformative leader within the legal sector. His leadership prioritizes empowerment and professional development, making an environment where team members can thrive and contribute to the firm’s success. With a keen understanding of the challenges involved in legal practice, he cultivates a culture of continuous learning and strategic thinking. Hossam’s leading approach inspires his team to meet client expectations and exceed them by providing thoughtful and innovative legal solutions. His ability to communicate effectively and build trust enhances collaboration, shaping a more responsive and agile legal practice. Leading Legal Integrity! T societal needs evolve, the legal profession adapts to address emerging challenges and opportunities. This adaptability is important in responding to shifts in technology, regulations, and public expectations, which continually redefine the boundaries of legal practice. The integration of innovative strategies and technologies has transformed traditional methods, nurturing a more proactive approach to legal services that prioritizes client needs and enhances efficiency. As a result, the legal sector is no longer confined to litigation but encompasses a wide range of services, including preventive strategies and compliance solutions that anticipate and mitigate legal risks. he legal industry is a core element of society, shaping the framework within which justice, rights, and responsibilities are established and upheld. As Hossam’s ability to communicate effectively and build trust enhances collaboration, shaping a more responsive and agile legal practice.” HZ Legal is at the top of this evolving industry, committed to delivering excellence and integrity in all its services. The firm provides tailored legal solutions that meet the unique needs of its clients while maintaining the highest ethical standards. With a focus on integrating technology and initiative-taking strategies, HZ Legal aims to navigate the complexities of the legal environment, ensuring clients receive comprehensive support that addresses current challenges and future uncertainties. As HZ Legal continues to expand its impact, it remains resolute in its mission to serve as a trusted partner in the pursuit of justice and legal clarity. continue meeting the needs of others and those who are unable to obtain their rights, even if it requires paying the costs of the cases themselves. Strategic Planning and Team Leadership As CEO and Founder of HZ Legal, Hossam’s responsibilities are manifold, requiring a seamless blend of visionary leadership and hands-on legal expertise. Strategic planning, team leadership, client relations, and direct involvement in complex legal cases form the core of his daily activities. Let’s delve into Hossam’s transformative journey within the legal industry: A Legacy of Legal Excellence Balancing these duties demands a disciplined approach to time management and delegation. He maintains an active role in key legal cases while also steering the firm’s strategic direction, ensuring that HZ Legal practices not only reflect current legal standards but also anticipate future trends and challenges. This dual role enhances the firm’s adaptability and aligns its operational goals with its long- term vision. The foundation of HZ Legal was not merely a professional decision but a personal culmination of lifelong lessons from Hossam’s father. From early on, his father embedded in him a profound appreciation for the law’s intricacy and its capacity to effectuate justice and order. Observing his father’s career, Hossam was drawn not only to the intellectual challenges but also to the potential for societal impact. Motivating through Professional Development Motivated by these early experiences and aiming to innovate in legal practice, he embarked on creating HZ Legal. This firm was conceived to integrate aggressive legal strategies with preventative measures to safeguard client interests. His leadership style is primarily defined by empowerment and strategic foresight. He believes in empowering his team through continuous professional development, creating a culture where innovative ideas and strategies can flourish. This approach not only motivates the team but also instills a proactive attitude that is essential for the field of legal consultancy. The impact on clients is equally profound, His motivation stems from a desire to continue his father’s legacy, emphasizing leadership and integrity within the legal community. The most important element learned is to

field often presents challenging cases that require persistence and dedication to overcome. overcommitting himself, which allows for dedicated personal time. Aligning Legal Strategies with Corporate Goals Secondly, he makes conscious efforts to remain present in his personal life, engaging fully with family and personal interests, which helps recharge his mental and emotional batteries. His experiences as both in-house and out-house counsel have been important in shaping his approach to legal consulting and developing deep, trust-based client relationships. Working in-house provided him with a unique perspective on the internal dynamics of businesses and the importance of aligning legal strategies with corporate goals. Additionally, he maintains a regular exercise regimen and mindfulness practices to manage stress and maintain overall health. However, that is not enough, as he still has to be available at all times for the requirements of clients when needed. Answering one inquiry for any client could save a lot of cost and time. It honed his ability to anticipate potential legal issues before they arise, thus adopting a preemptive approach to legal challenges. As out-house counsel, he encountered a broader spectrum of legal issues, which enriched his experience and enhanced his problem-solving skills. Commitment to Continuous Legal Education Hossam believes that with over 15 years in the legal field, staying abreast of the latest trends and developments is essential. He dedicates a huge portion of his time to continuous education through advanced courses, seminars, and legal conferences. He also subscribes to a variety of legal journals and participates in legal think tanks and forums, which provide insights into emerging legal theories and practices. This dual exposure has allowed him to offer more nuanced and comprehensive advice to clients, ensuring that the solutions provided are not only legally sound but also strategically aligned with their business objectives. Effective Task Prioritization and Delegation Maintaining a balance between a demanding legal career and a fulfilling personal life is paramount to Hossam’s well- being and effectiveness as a leader; however, it is not easy or a piece of cake. He employs several strategies to manage this balance effectively. “ This commitment to ongoing education ensures that he, along with his firm, remains well-informed in the legal sector and equipped to handle new challenges as they arise. Now, they have updated with technology and established an E-crime Department, AI usage in most of their departments, Firstly, he prioritizes and delegates tasks to ensure that workloads are manageable and that he is not as they benefit from a team that is responsive, knowledgeable, and equipped to handle complex legal challenges with agility and precision. interests and maintains their confidence in the firm’s ability to represent them effectively. Overcoming Challenges with Resilience Anticipating Legal Challenges According to Hossam, success as a legal consultant hinges on several core qualities: The provision of preemptive and offensive legal services requires a delicate balance between assertiveness and ethical transparency. At HZ Legal, Hossam prioritizes establishing a clear communication channel with clients, ensuring they are fully aware of the strategies deployed on their behalf and the potential outcomes. Hossam’s ability to communicate effectively and build trust enhances collaboration, shaping a more responsive and agile legal practice.” “Deep legal knowledge, strategic thinking, empathy, and resilience. Mastery of legal principles and procedural nuances is fundamental, enabling the consultant to steer complicated legal matters confidently.” This transparency builds trust and allows vigorous advocacy for clients while adhering to the highest standards of legal integrity. By anticipating legal challenges and preparing robust defenses, HZ Legal safeguards clients’ Strategic thinking allows for the development of innovative solutions to legal problems, while empathy ensures that these solutions are tailored to the specific emotional and practical needs of each client. Resilience is essential, as the

and cryptocurrency care, which includes fraud pursuit, analysis, cycle root tracking, and protection. Building a Strong Legal Foundation For those aspiring to become trusted advisors in the legal industry, he offers the following advice: • First, build a strong foundation in legal knowledge and ethics. Second, focus on developing critical thinking and analytical skills, as these are essential in evaluating complex legal scenarios and devising appropriate strategies. Third, cultivate relationships within the industry through networking, as these connections can provide valuable mentorship and opportunities for collaboration. Finally, embrace a commitment to lifelong learning and adaptability. Constantly evolving, staying informed, and being flexible are keys to becoming a respected advisor. • “The law is reason, free from passion.” • • but exceed the expectations of its clients by providing innovative, tailored legal solutions. “ Strategic Vision for Future Growth Hossam’s leading approach inspires his team to meet client expectations and exceed them by providing thoughtful and innovative legal solutions.’ Looking ahead, Hossam’s vision for HZ Legal involves several strategic goals aimed at enhancing the market position and expanding the impact within the legal sector. Firstly, HZ Legal plans to further integrate technology into its practice, utilizing AI and machine learning to enhance efficiency and accuracy in legal research and case management. Secondly, HZ Legal aims to expand its geographical footprint, establishing offices in new markets to attract a broader client base. HZ Legal not only advocates for its clients but also advocates for the betterment of the legal profession through a commitment to ethical practice, community involvement, and professional development. This integrated approach sets the firm apart as a leader in legal consulting and as a steadfast contributor to the broader legal community. Thirdly, HZ Legal will continue to commit to corporate social responsibility, engaging in pro bono work and community service to give back to the community and support the development of the legal profession. HZ Legal hopes to establish itself as a firm that helps others whenever they expect and need it, while at the same time keeping up with the latest technological developments of the era. Commitment to Excellence and Integrity HZ Legal is deeply committed to a culture of excellence and integrity. The firm continuously strives to not only meet

Embracing Change and Expanding Access Legal Services in the 21st Century T progress advances and social needs change, so has the legal profession adjusted its direction. From improved access to justice to new, innovative tools, legal service change marks the flexibility and the imperative of inclusiveness. he 21st century has experienced changes in all spheres of industry, and legal services have not been spared from the storm. As technological As legal systems grow and change, peoples' interactions with new methods and technologies will develop proactively, with fair services and upholding the rule of law within an increasingly interdependent society. Technology as a Catalyst for Legal Innovation Technology has become a cornerstone in the legal profession and has altered how services are delivered. The adoption of tools like artificial intelligence, blockchain, and cloud-based platforms has streamlined processes, reduced costs, and made it efficient. The power to access information better and to make decisions more prudently has been passed to both the legal professional and his clients. Other developments through innovative legal services include virtual consultations, online dispute resolution platforms, digital filing systems, and the use of analytics to predict the case outcome or identify trends and patterns. This transformation goes deeper into the insight regarding complex cases that the professional may have. These technologies facilitate access to justice through other means. Enhancing Access to Justice This has also enabled legal services to be integrated into those excluded previously due to geographical, financial, or systemic barriers. For instance, digital platforms offer 16 17 www.thedubaileaders.com | December 2024 | www.thedubaileaders.com | December 2024 |

avenues for underserved communities to have access to legal support tools such as self-help guides, document automation, and even affordable consultations. Continuing education is equally essential for those already in the profession. Workshops, certification courses, and professional development programs are becoming increasingly popular so that practitioners are well aware of the latest tools and methodologies. Such innovations cut costs and streamline procedures bringing them closer to those who seek access to the law. It seems that governments and private individuals are investing in improving the accessibility of such systems by making justice more equalized. Increasing Legal Awareness More fundamentally, public awareness and education concerning rights and available resources could be the most vital pathway toward improving access to legal services. Public campaigns, legal literacy programs, and community outreach initiatives all strive to empower people to seek help when needed. Alternative Legal Providers and Their Role Beyond the traditional law firm, Alternative Legal Service Providers (ALSP) are transforming the landscape of the marketplace: ALSPs offer specialty expertise, often provided at a competitive cost, to businesses and individuals looking to reduce legal costs. This also empowers them to understand the law while prodding them to take initiative with legal professionals before such issues become more complicated disputes. ALSPs usually adopt unorthodox approaches to problem- solving, utilizing technologies and innovative methods to tailor services. The presence of ALSPs has diversified the market, thereby forcing competition, and forcing traditional firms to change their approach toward engagement with clients. Therefore, although it can be said that change has been the word as both technology and social requirements changed, there appears to remain some interest in accessible legal services that are both efficient and equitable. Increasingly educational levels and awareness diversifying amongst service providers add greater vibrancy to a much more inclusive potential future for legal service. Ethics in the Changing Landscape While progress brings so many benefits, it raises ethical questions. The use of AI in legal services, for example, raises concerns related to bias, data privacy, and accountability. Lawyers need to navigate these concerns with care, ensuring that technology serves to enhance rather than compromise justice. Being abreast and adaptable would help change for the clients, businesses, and lawyers. The combined efforts of embracing change ensure that the legal system stays a foundation of fairness and justice in this 21st century. www.thedubaileaders.com Professional organizations and policymakers are working to determine guidelines that will address ethical considerations in this integration, pushing for transparency and accountability in embracing technology within the legal framework. This is a continuous dialogue that can maintain trust in the system while embracing new possibilities. Education and Skill Development The ever-changing legal services require constant learning and skill development by professionals in this field. The curricula of law schools are changing to include technology, data analysis, and interdisciplinary studies as part of their course of study, arming the next generation of lawyers with the tools to succeed in this new landscape. Subscribe to The Dubai Leaders Your Gateway to a world of Knowledge and Creativity! 18 www.thedubaileaders.com | December 2024 |

Democratizing Legal Advice The Rise of Online Legal Platforms I was usually time-consuming, intimidating, and expensive, making it inaccessible to many. However, the emergence of online legal platforms has significantly changed the way individuals and businesses approach legal matters. By leveraging technology, these platforms have made legal advice more accessible, affordable, and transparent, thus democratizing the field of law. n the past, accessing legal advice was often seen as an exclusive privilege reserved for those with the resources to afford traditional law firms. The process The Shift Towards Accessibility Online legal platforms have broken down many of the barriers that once surrounded legal services. With just a few clicks, individuals can now access a wide range of legal resources, from templates for contracts to consultations with licensed attorneys. This shift has been particularly beneficial for small businesses, startups, and individuals who might not have the financial means to retain traditional legal counsel. The accessibility of these platforms is further enhanced by their 24/7 availability. Unlike conventional law firms that operate during fixed hours, online platforms are accessible at any time, providing users with the convenience of seeking legal advice whenever needed. This is particularly important in urgent situations, such as drafting an agreement or understanding legal implications in real-time. Cost Efficiency and Transparency One of the most notable benefits of online legal platforms is their cost-effectiveness. Traditional legal services often involve high hourly rates and retainer fees, which can be prohibitive for many. In contrast, online platforms offer tiered pricing models, pay-as-you-go services, and even free resources. This pricing structure ensures that a wider 20 21 www.thedubaileaders.com | December 2024 | www.thedubaileaders.com | December 2024 |

audience can access legal assistance without worrying about exorbitant costs. For marginalized communities, these platforms also offer a more comfortable way to seek advice. The anonymity and convenience of online consultations can help reduce the stigma or intimidation that some may feel when approaching traditional legal institutions. Additionally, these platforms promote transparency by clearly outlining the scope of services and associated costs upfront. Clients know exactly what they are paying for, reducing the risk of unexpected charges. This openness builds trust and encourages more people to seek legal help when they need it. The Role of Attorneys in the Digital Shift While online legal platforms have transformed access to legal advice, they have not replaced the role of attorneys. Instead, they complement traditional legal services by handling routine tasks, allowing lawyers to focus on cases that require in-depth expertise and personalized attention. “Legal services are not just about laws-they're about empowering individuals and businesses with the tools to thrive.” Bridging the Gap Between Technology and Law Online legal platforms are at the forefront of integrating technology into legal services. Many use artificial intelligence to streamline processes such as document review, legal research, and contract drafting. Chatbots and automated systems can answer basic legal queries, saving users time and money while allowing attorneys to focus on more complex tasks. Many platforms partner with licensed attorneys to provide consultation services, ensuring that users receive reliable and accurate advice. This hybrid model preserves the human element of the legal profession while embracing the efficiencies offered by technology. Furthermore, some platforms offer tools for virtual dispute resolution, enabling parties to resolve conflicts without stepping into a courtroom. This innovation not only reduces the cost and time involved in litigation but also provides a more amicable environment for resolving disputes. Looking Ahead The rise of online legal platforms signals a significant shift in how legal services are delivered and consumed. By making legal assistance more accessible, affordable, and transparent, these platforms are leveling the playing field for individuals and businesses alike. While traditional law firms will always play a crucial role in complex and specialized cases, the democratization of legal advice through online platforms ensures that more people can access the help they need to navigate their legal concerns effectively. Empowering Self-Reliance These platforms empower users by equipping them with the tools and knowledge they need to handle straightforward legal matters independently. By offering customizable templates for wills, leases, and other documents, individuals and small businesses can address their legal needs without hiring a lawyer. While this approach might not be suitable for all cases, it provides an entry point for those who would otherwise forgo legal assistance. Moreover, many platforms include educational resources, such as blogs, webinars, and FAQs, to help users better understand their rights and responsibilities. This educational component demystifies the legal process and encourages proactive engagement with legal matters. Expanding Reach and Inclusivity The global nature of online legal platforms ensures that their reach extends far beyond metropolitan hubs. People in rural or underserved areas can now access the same level of legal expertise as those in major cities. This inclusivity is particularly important in regions where legal services are sparse or prohibitively expensive. 22 www.thedubaileaders.com | December 2024 |

“Legal services bridge the gap between confusion and confidence, helping clients navigate critical decisions.”

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The Most Influential Leaders in Legal Services, 2024

The Most Influential Leaders in Legal Services, 2024

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