Analytical Paper Optional: All enrolled students have the option of completing a research paper of at least 20-25 pages, with faculty and peer review of a substantially complete draft. This paper can be used to satisfy the analytical paper requirement for J.D. students.

Prerequisites: Admission to this seminar is by permission of the instructor. Students should send a CV and brief statement of their background and interest to Professor Fried (jfried@law.harvard.edu). Applications should be sent after June 1st, and decisions will be made on a rolling basis.

Exam Type: No Exam

The seminar will focus on the exciting developments, as well as challenges, created by Saudi Arabia’s and the UAE’s ambitious efforts to modernize their societies and economies. It will cover (a) social, political, and economic changes in Saudi Arabia and the UAE over the last two decades, including the Abraham Accords; (b) the legal landscape in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, including the creation of “off-shore” legal regimes in both countries (e.g., Saudi’s NEOM and the UAE’s DIFC); and (c) investing and deal-making in the two countries. The course is designed for law students seeking to learn more about the region. Guest speakers will include academics, lawyers, investors, and government officials. Grading will be based on a research paper, 2-page memos submitted before each session, and class participation.