Dr. Saleh Zahaf
Partner
Introduction
Dr. Saleh Zahaf is recognized for his impressive track record of achieving remarkable results for international clients in Libyan legal disputes. His career was launched with a Doctorate in Economic Law from the prestigious Sorbonne, University of Paris. He has shared his expertise as a law lecturer at several distinguished institutions. Additionally, Dr. Zahaf has contributed his knowledge to the Committee of International Treaties at Libya’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the World Trade Organization delegation under the Ministry of Economy. His extensive experience and unwavering dedication make him an invaluable Partner at Zahaf & Partners Law Firm.
Education & Honors
- Doctorate in Economic Law, Sorbonne, University of Paris, France (1987).
- Master’s degree in International Economic Law, Sorbonne, University of Paris, France (1984).
- International Law Diploma, Sorbonne, University of Paris, France (1983).
- Bachelor of Laws, University of Rabat, Morocco (1978).
Experience
Dr. Saleh founded Zahaf & Partners Law Firm in 1990 with the goal of providing high-quality, transparent, and trusted legal services to both local and international clients. He was also a member of the committee that drafted Investment Law No. 9 of 2010, which significantly transformed and enhanced direct foreign investment in Libya. He remains a leading figure in the Libyan legal market, heading the country’s largest and top-ranked independent law firm.
Key highlights of Dr. Saleh’s work include:
- Leading the legal proceedings for the partial privatization of Sahara Bank, Wahda Bank, Umnah, and the Gumhouria Bank, the largest privatization transaction in Libya’s history, involving the four largest banks in the country.
- Conducting legal work related to the participation of the Portuguese Bank (Banco Espirito Santos) and Aman Bank.
- Handling the legal work for the partnership between the State of Libya and the United Arab Emirates in establishing the “First Gulf Libyan Bank.”
- Advising on the Man-Made River project and the dispute over the bankruptcy of the Korean contractor, the largest infrastructure project in Libya.
- Representing several Swiss companies and nationals detained in Libya due to a dispute between the former regime and the Swiss government.
Memberships
- Libyan Bar Association
- International Organization for the Prosecution of War Criminals
- Libyan-Tunisian Friendship Association
