Established in 1994, S&A Lawyers is a leading full-service law firm base in Maldives. The practice initially began with a focus on litigation, now the firm is becoming the leading practice in the country for corporate and commercial work.
Highlights
The firm is renowned for strength across a range of corporate and commercial transactions, including foreign investments, acquisitions, and banking and finance-related matters.
The firm also advised clients on both cross-border and domestic transactions from multiple jurisdictions including Malaysia, Singapore, Dubai, Germany, Sri Lanka, India, China, Thailand and the US.
The firm welcomed senior partner Husnu Al Suood in 2025 regarding general business law matters.
Key clients
Key clients include Blackstone Group, ICICI Bank, KSL Capital Partners, RE Royalties, and Ventive Hospitality / Panschil Realty.
Testimonials
“Their ability to combine deep legal knowledge with a practical, solution-oriented approach was particularly valuable. The team was responsive, detailed and demonstrated strong negotiation skills. They understood both the legal framework and the commercial realities, which allowed them to provide advice that was technically sound and practical.” (Banking and finance client)
“Understood the practicalities of business versus just legal advice.” (Banking and finance client)
“On the top of have a lot of experience, they are very practical and problem solving oriented. Also, they are very well connected and are able to get things done when it comes to government offices and local banks.” (Bank lending client)
“They are very knowledgeable and provide workable solution on complex legal issues.” (Leveraged finance client)
“In-depth knowledge of tourism industry and expertise. Expertise in FIDIC contract. Promptness in delivery. Availability of multi skills in the firm.” (Financial services regulatory client)
“Great knowledge of law and process and practical, commercial advice.” (M&A client)
“Zain at S&A really understands the aviation industry—not just the law. S&A’s team and Zain anticipated crucial practical issues we’d face with government, regulators, contracts, and crew, and gave us clear, commercial solutions instead of legal jargon. Just excellent service!” (Project development client)
“Provide sound advice and in-depth knowledge of Maldivian laws. ” (Project development client)
Shahdy Anwar
“Shahdy is creative, solution oriented, and clear in handling complex matters. He has extensive experience and knowledge of the industry and commercial realities .”
“Provide innovate solution for complex issues.”
“Very responsive and provides very commercial advice.”
Mohamed Anwar
“Promptness. Team management. Knowledge of both Finance and law.”
Zain Shaheed
“Zain has an exceptional ability to cut through complexity and give us advice we can actually use. He frames legal issues in a way that aligns with our business goals, and his drafting is always sharp and to the point. What stands out most is that he’s not just a lawyer, but a strategic partner we can rely on.”
“He is very practical, anticipates what the counterpart lawyer will do/say, and do not discuss/fight pointless issues. He is problem-solving oriented, and focus on the important matters. He is also able to get on the phone and, thru his personal contacts/experience, get things done.”
“He possesses a deep understanding of legal principles, statutes, and precedents, enabling him to provide accurate and insightful advice. His skill is evident in his ability to strategically analyse complex cases, effectively communicate legal arguments, and achieve favorable outcomes through meticulous preparation and persuasive advocacy offered sound and practical advice.”
