Practical, accessible, affordable.

With over 20 years of experience, we specialize in international contracts, employment law and tender management— across the Middle East, Iran, and Europe.

Get in touch

Welcome to International Legal Safeguard.

Legal expertise, regionally focused

With over 20 years of experience, we specialize in international contracts, employment law and tender management— across the Middle East, Iran, and Europe.

We use our legal and regional knowledge to help you handle international challenges with confidence.

Local knowledge, global expertise

We operate across the entire Middle East and Europe, with a special focus on key regions. In the Middle East, this includes the Gulf countries: Oman, Saudi Arabia, the UAE (Dubai), Kuwait, Bahrain, and Qatar. In Europe, our focus lies on the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, France, and Spain.

We have lived and worked in these regions. We speak the languages, understand the cultures, and have built trusted networks.

Our local insight helps you avoid cultural and legal missteps — and gives you a stronger, smarter start in international markets.

Expert advice without big law firm costs

You do not always need a lawyer—sometimes, you just need the right legal expert. At International Legal Safeguard, we simplify complex legal issues and offer practical, cost-effective solutions. 

Whether you need help reviewing international contracts, addressing employment issues, or ensuring compliance with international regulations, we deliver solutions quickly and affordably—without the high costs and bureaucracy of large law firms.

Affordable legal support for everyone

Small businesses and entrepreneurs deserve reliable legal help — without the high price tag. That’s why we offer expert support tailored to SMEs, at a fair rate.

We help you avoid risky contracts, clarify terms, and protect your business from costly legal mistakes. Our hourly rate is just €125 — half of what many large law firms charge.

Quality legal guidance, made accessible. So you can focus on what matters most: growing your international business.

Prevention is key

At International Legal Safeguard, we believe prevention is the foundation of success. We help you avoid risky contracts and legal issues before they arise. 

A small investment upfront—like a contract review—saves time, stress, and money in the long run.

2 business persons shaking hands

We don’t just give legal advice

We go beyond the legal basics — offering real insight into the commercial and cultural landscapes of both the Middle East and Europe.

As your legal partner, we help protect your interests and guide your success in international business.

Meet Ellie

Mr. drs. Ellie van der Aa is a dynamic legal counsel with a passion for the Middle East and a wealth of international business experience. She studied International Commercial Law in the Netherlands and completed her Arabic studies in Beirut, Lebanon.

Ellie is not just fluent in Arabic, but she is also deeply familiar with the customs and traditions of the region. This cultural insight allows her to unlock opportunities that may remain closed to others.

Ellie has built partnerships and led projects in places like Iran, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait and Qatar throughout her career.  Beyond her remarkable Middle East experience, Ellie has guided companies in establishing international sales offices and distribution systems in important European markets such as France, Spain, Italy and Germany.

In addition to being skilled in Arabic, she is fluent in French, German, English and Spanish. Her motivation, energy, and results-focused approach make her an exceptional partner in Europe and the Middle East.

Talk to Ellie

Meet Eva

Meet Eva – an experienced legal professional with a background in international law, earned in different countries such as; Spain, The Netherlands and Germany. Her specialty is international employment law.

She is your go-to expert for legal matters in the EMEA zone, excelling in everything from establishing new branches to navigating the complexities of employment contracts, whether initiating or concluding them.

Eva is not just a legal adviser, she is your strategic partner in ensuring your success in Europe and the Middle East, particularly in matters related to international employment contracts & law.

Talk to Eva

Meet: Eva

Meet Eva – an experience professional with a background in International Marketing and Law earned in Spain. Her specialty is International Labour Law.

She is your go-to expert for legal matters in Spain and Italy, excelling in everything from establishing new branches to navigating the complexities of labour contracts, whether initiating or concluding them.

Eva is not just a legal adviser, she is your strategic partner in ensuring your success in Europe and the Middle East, particularly in matters related to international labour contracts & law.

Talk to Ellie

Insights and publications

Stay informed with our comprehensive guides and articles.

Insights

“AND THEN I GOT STUCK IN DUBAI..”

Navigating the pitfalls of closing a business in Dubai: James’s story

Read more
Insights

Doing Business in the Middle East

Can a western woman do business in the Arab world?

Read more

Contact us

International Legal Safeguard provides expert, legal advice for businesses operating in the Middle East and Europe.

Get in touch to discuss how we can support your goals — with solutions aligned to your region, sector, and strategy.

Get in touch