Romain Gerardin-Fresse awarded 'Legal Icon of the Year' by Sheikh Nahyan at Golden Excellence Awards Ceremony in Dubai

Gulf Network

The United Arab Emirates once again celebrated global excellence and cross-border leadership during the 8ᵗʰ Golden Excellence Awards, held on May 18 in Dubai. The prestigious ceremony, renowned for highlighting high-impact individuals shaping the future of the region, honoured Romain Gerardin-Fresse with the coveted “Legal Icon Award”.

The award was conferred by His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan Bin Mabarak Al Nahayan, UAE Cabinet Member and Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, during a landmark gathering that brought together influential personalities from the Gulf’s legal, business, diplomatic, and entrepreneurial communities.

Widely regarded as one of the region’s eminent legal strategists, Romain Gerardin-Fresse has built an international reputation advising governments, institutional investors, and major economic players on complex legal matters with cross-jurisdictional dimensions. His presence among the awardees reflects the growing recognition of legal architecture as a fundamental pillar of economic and political stability in the MENA region.

In his keynote remarks, His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to cultivating a future-focused, inclusive, and opportunity-driven environment. He praised the recipients of this year’s awards as ambassadors of excellence whose work strengthens the Emirates’ global influence and reinforces its role as a hub for innovation and cooperation.

Mr. Gerardin-Fresse’s recognition comes in a year marked by his growing involvement in high-stakes advisory missions across the Gulf and Europe. His ability to navigate institutional complexities and safeguard legal interests in sensitive negotiations has made him a sought-after figure in regulatory and dispute resolution environments.

He was joined at the ceremony by other distinguished leaders, including Rizwan Sajan, Founder and Chairman of Danube Group, honoured for his contributions to the UAE’s real estate and construction sectors; Paras Shahdadpuri, Chairman of the Nikai Group and a pioneer of Indo-UAE business relations; Tauseef Hayat Khan, a respected figure in banking and investment strategy; and Munawar Haziq, President of Emirates Airline India, recognised for his role in expanding bilateral air and trade links between the Emirates and South Asia.

The Golden Excellence Awards have evolved into a benchmark of distinction for regional and international achievers whose careers resonate with the values of innovation, resilience, and positive influence. This latest edition confirmed Dubai’s positioning not only as an economic powerhouse but also as a capital of institutional recognition and visionary leadership.