One of the UAE’s most prominent and respected lawyers has parted ways with Baker McKenzie, following a series of controversial remarks made on Twitter.
In a post last week, Dr Habib Al Mulla described homosexuality as “problematic”, “not only in the ugliness of the act, but in the necessity of atheism by its nature”.
He added that an individual who “[practices] perversion in secret” is committing an “evil act” and “disobeying the Creator”.
In a statement the company said: “After recent discussions, Baker McKenzie and Dr Habib Al Mulla can confirm they will be parting ways. The separation process is underway, and we remain committed to supporting both clients and employees in the UAE and the wider region.”
The statement continued: “Baker McKenzie strongly believes that however much we may disagree with the beliefs and personal views of others, we must find ways to disagree respectfully, encourage inclusive dialogue and to ensure an inclusive work environment for all. Any social media comments by Dr Habib represent his own views and not those of the Firm.”
On the company’s website, it describes Dr Al Mulla as “one of the UAE’s most highly respected legal authorities. He has over 38 years’ experience in UAE law and has drafted many of the modern legislative structures in place in Dubai today. Dr Habib is a strong advocate for the improvement and modernisation of UAE Laws. He is a frequent commentator on the legislation and economy of the UAE and is often consulted to draft and advise on Federal and Emirate level laws.”
Dr Al Mulla created the concept of financial free zones in the UAE and was the architect of the legal framework establishing the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), the first financial free zone in the UAE. Dr Habib also served as Chairman of the Legislative Committee of the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA). He has published many books and articles on the UAE law and economy, including a two part book on his life’s work titled Life’s Harvest, a definitive selection of his writings on the laws, politics and economy of the UAE over the last 26 years.
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