If you thought 2026 might finally be the year Biglaw got a break from “unprecedented events,” think again.
Major firms across the Middle East are quietly preparing evacuation plans after Iranian missile and drone attacks disrupted airspace, damaged infrastructure, and shut down financial markets. Flights were temporarily suspended across the region, and exchanges in the UAE closed through Tuesday.
As noted by the American Lawyer, Firms including Baker McKenzie, HSF Kramer, Morgan Lewis, and White & Case have instructed lawyers in the UAE and Saudi Arabia to work from home, citing safety concerns and business continuity. Other global players have issued similar statements — safety first, client service uninterrupted.
Biglaw can remote-work its way through a lot. Missile barrages and potential internet blackouts? That’s a tougher billing environment. It’s a stark reminder that “anywhere lawyering” still depends on physical safety, functional infrastructure, and governments that aren’t actively shooting at each other.
For now, firms are running daily calls, activating security protocols, and checking on colleagues every few hours. Everyone is doing the best they can to try to keep deals moving while hoping the evacuation plans stay theoretical.
Snark aside, this is real life for thousands of lawyers and staff in the region. We’re wishing safety and protection for everyone caught up in the chaos — colleagues, clients, and their families — and hoping these contingency plans stay just that: plans.
Major Law Firms Draw Up Middle East Evacuation Plans Amid Iran Attacks [American Lawyer]
Staci Zaretsky is the managing editor of Above the Law, where she’s worked since 2011. She’d love to hear from you, so please feel free to email her with any tips, questions, comments, or critiques. You can follow her on Bluesky, X/Twitter, and Threads, or connect with her on LinkedIn.
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