Actionism Advisory is a boutique consultancy based in the UAE with regional reach and global expertise in law, finance, ESG/sustainability, and cultural intelligence for organizations navigating complex regulatory landscapes and market entry.
Actionism Advisory is a UAE-based advisory firm working with organisations across the Gulf
Cooperation Council Countries (GCC) and North Africa and those further afield who seek to
operate within the region.
We combine legal and commercial advice, finance, sustainability and
cultural intelligence to support companies and individuals navigating regulation, market entry
and long-term value creation.
We take the time to understand your objectives, legal and regulatory obligations, market conditions, and regional context before advising ensuring guidance is practical and defensible.
We support boards and leadership teams on high-impact decisions with good governance to maximize impact, add value and safeguard reputation.
We translate legal, regulatory, sustainability, and cultural complexity into clear options and next steps, working directly and discreetly with decision-makers and actionists.
Advising on finance and commercial transactions, contract negotiations, regulatory compliance and market entry.
Strategic counsel on risk, new markets, and stakeholder management.
Net Zero plans, sustainable finance frameworks, and ESG compliance.
Workshops on law, governance, and sustainability for impact.
Strategic design and delivery of legal, business development, and culturally informed events that strengthen relationships and elevate engagement.
Founder & CEO | Lead Actionist | Finance Lawyer | Board Advisor
Founder of Actionism Advisory with over 20 years of experience across law, finance, sustainability, and human rights working in various regions and across different types of institutions (profit and non profit).
Based in Dubai, Layla advises boards and senior leaders on complex regulatory, sustainability and cultural matters across the UK, Europe, Gulf countries and North Africa.
We collaborate with a trusted network of specialists to deliver depth and perspective where needed.
Honourable mention and shortlist recognition
Professional accreditation in sustainability and climate risk (GARP 2024)
Professional accreditation in non-financial sustainability related risks (FSA Level 1, 2024)
Recognised for leadership excellence, mentoring and impact by senior management of a known international bank.
GDPR Data Privacy accreditation (CIPP/EU - IAPP 2023)
Our thinking reflects the legal, sustainability, and cultural issues shaping the region today.
Independent analysis on law, sustainability, governance and regional market trends.
Discussions on regulatory, sustainability, and cultural issues shaping leadership decisions.
Selected contributions and expert perspectives featured across regional and international media.
Looking for more? Access exclusive training videos and masterclasses
"Layla combines strong legal judgement with deep cultural intelligence. She is a trusted advisor on complex matters requiring clarity and discretion."
"Layla brings a rare balance of legal rigour, commercial awareness, and ethical judgement."
"An advisor of integrity, insight, and sound judgement, particularly in sensitive or high-stakes situations."
"As a junior associate working with her I always felt supported and appreciated. She communicates her expectations clearly and brings warmth, clarity and creativity to everything she does."
"A person of immense courage, integrity and care for others who makes an impact professionally and personally."
"She is someone who can zoom out as a thought leader and also has a creative gift as a storyteller. I have seen her use these skills across cultures and settings to get the best out of participants."
"Layla stands out from the crowd. Her ability to deliver value added legal counsel is balanced with an astute commercial awareness making her an ideal business partner."
“Highly recommended for those seeking to navigate the MENA and GCC markets with cultural intelligence and confidence for inclusive workplaces and sustainable business growth.”
“An exceptional speaker and moderator bringing rare depth to complex topics. She elevates every panel and keynote as an invaluable asset to any event.”
+971 (0)56 418 5783
info@actionismadvisory.com
@ActionismAdvisory
Actionism Advisory FZ LLE is incorporated in Fujairah Creative City Media Free Zone, UAE with trade license: 19847/2025