Cheryl Cairns is a Partner in Trowers & Hamlins’ Dubai office and leads the firm’s International Construction practice across the MENA region. Since joining the firm in 2007, she has developed extensive experience in the construction industry, specialising in both contentious and non-contentious construction law. Based in the Middle East for more than 15 years, Cheryl regularly advises employers, contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers on issues arising throughout the life cycle of major construction and infrastructure projects in sectors such as rail, aviation, and oil and gas.

Her contentious practice involves managing complex disputes, including drafting pleadings, attending hearings, obtaining and reviewing witness evidence, and working closely with engineering, delay, and quantum experts. On the non-contentious side, Cheryl provides strategic contract advisory services, advising clients on procurement methods, risk allocation, and amendments to standard form contracts—particularly FIDIC—as well as drafting bespoke agreements, consultancy contracts, and ancillary security documents for significant international projects.

Cheryl holds a Master’s Degree in Construction Law and is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators. She is widely recognised for her practical and commercially focused approach and frequently speaks at industry events across the region, contributing to thought leadership in construction and infrastructure law.