Russell Bedford Dubai turns 15

March 2021

We are delighted to celebrate the 15th anniversary of Russell Bedford Dubai.

Established in 2006, Russell Bedford Dubai was one of the first audit firms to be set-up in the Dubai International Financial Centre ("DIFC").

In the 15 years since, we have worked hard to build a reputation for quality service, persevered through global economic challenges (including the 2008 financial crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic), and expanded further - taking on more staff, moving to bigger offices and establishing Dubai Mainland presence as well as a branch office in the Abu Dhabi Global Market ("ADGM").

However, one thing that remains unchanged is our commitment to providing exceptional service, based on strong client relationships.

From the whole team at Russell Bedford Dubai, we would like to thank all of our clients and business partners for their continued support. We look forward to working with you in the years to come.

Naresh Shah, Founder & Chairman of Russell Bedford Dubai, shares his reflections:

"When the DIFC was established, we had already been assisting a growing Middle East and Indian client base for many years. The DIFC was to be a global financial centre in the region which, since it was a free zone, allowed 100% foreign ownership of businesses established there.

Since the language in general use was English and common law principles applied, we felt it would be the perfect point of connection between the West and the Indian sub-continent and could open new opportunities for us.

Since my early visits in 2005 and 2006 to review the potential opportunity, I have seen the DIFC transformed from a single building to the very modern set up you see today. Russell Bedford Dubai started up in a small office in the World Trade Building because there was limited space available inside the DIFC. As we grew and the DIFC expanded we have moved into bigger offices inside the financial centre.

With its unique legal and regulatory framework based on the principles of common law and ensuring the highest international standards for legal and dispute resolution, the DIFC has attracted a lot of international business and Russell Bedford Dubai has been there to provide a personal and professional service.

In 2008, the financial crisis struck and the timing couldn't have been worse - many businesses took a hit and many foreign staff left the UAE. We persevered, thanks to the support of our clients and business partners and our hard-working staff who remained loyal and professional throughout the crisis. Their work paid off nicely, with growing client numbers and additional staff being recruited.

With the start of the global pandemic last year affecting businesses worldwide, particularly in the hospitality sector, we feel confident of weathering this newer crisis as we did the last. Hopefully, with the roll-out of the vaccines, the world is edging closer to controlling the virus and we will once again get back to some normality.

Russell Bedford Dubai looks forward to many more years of growth in the UAE marketplace and the Middle East as a whole."

Stephen Hamlet, CEO of Russell Bedford International, said:

"Congratulations to Russell Bedford Dubai on reaching their fifteenth year in business. The team consistently provide invaluable support to clients in their region, while championing our brand and always willingly and enthusiastically engaging in the myriad of events, business and practice development opportunities and charitable activities via our international network."