Deel CEO in Dubai: Rippling Lawsuit Complications

Rippling Faces Challenges Serving Deel CEO Alex Bouaziz

Rippling’s attempts to officially notify Deel CEO Alex Bouaziz regarding legal proceedings have become considerably more complex. This development stems from the fact that both Bouaziz and his legal counsel are presently located in Dubai, as indicated by internal communications reviewed by TechCrunch.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has a recognized standing as a jurisdiction offering refuge to individuals seeking to avoid extradition.

Difficulties in Legal Service

Rippling is pursuing legal service on Bouaziz as part of a substantial lawsuit filed in Ireland against Deel. However, previous efforts by French bailiffs to locate Bouaziz at a residence in Paris, France, proved unsuccessful last week.

Allegations of Bribery

The lawsuit alleges that Bouaziz engaged in the bribery of a Rippling employee based in Ireland, Keith O’Brien. The sworn statement provided by the individual identified as the alleged “spy” contains details reminiscent of a fictional narrative.

Key Deel Personnel in Dubai

Bouaziz is not the only Deel representative now residing in the UAE. Asif Malik, Deel’s legal director, has also relocated to Dubai, according to statements made by Rippling’s legal team during a recent court hearing.

Malik, a citizen of the United Kingdom, is also subject to Rippling’s attempts at legal service. He is the same lawyer reportedly offering to relocate O’Brien to Dubai and cover his legal expenses in exchange for non-cooperation with Rippling, as detailed in O’Brien’s affidavit.

UAE Legal Landscape

European legal authorities have noted that the UAE’s legal system presents significant obstacles to extradition processes. However, the Gulf nation has publicly stated its commitment to collaborating with international law enforcement agencies and has recently increased the number of extraditions involving individuals wanted for a long period.

Further Connections to the UAE

Furthermore, Bouaziz’s father, who serves as the CFO of Deel, and who O’Brien alleges was aware of and oversaw payments related to the scheme, currently indicates the UAE as his location on X (formerly Twitter).

Lack of Response

Deel, along with Alex and Philippe Bouaziz, did not respond to requests for comment regarding these matters. Deel has previously issued a response to Rippling’s lawsuit, categorically denying all allegations of wrongdoing. Rippling also did not respond to a request for comment.