Signaling a major push into the Middle East, Mayer Brown announced Thursday that it would open an office in Dubai in 2016 after hiring two high-profile partners who have practiced in the region, both former practice leaders at Baker & McKenzie.

Corporate and securities partners Charles Hallab and Tahan “Tom” Thraya have joined Mayer Brown’s offices in Washington, D.C., and Chicago, with plans to eventually help the firm launch its first outpost in the Middle East.