Legal Counsel

Location: Abu Dhabi, UAE

Reporting to: Head of Legal

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced Legal Counsel to join a well-established family group in Abu Dhabi. The role will provide comprehensive legal support across a diversified portfolio of businesses, ensuring compliance with UAE laws and regulations while supporting commercial and strategic objectives.

This is a broad, hands-on role requiring strong commercial awareness and the ability to operate across multiple business units.

Key Responsibilities

Legal Advisory

Provide day-to-day legal advice to senior management and business units
Support strategic decision-making with sound legal guidance
Ensure compliance with UAE laws, regulations, and corporate governance requirements

Contracts & Commercial

Draft, review, and negotiate a wide range of commercial agreements
Manage contracts across multiple business sectors (real estate, retail, investment, etc.)
Advise on risk exposure and mitigation strategies

Corporate & Governance

Support corporate structuring, company formation, and restructuring activities
Ensure proper governance frameworks are in place across group entities
Liaise with external counsel, regulators, and government authorities as required

Regulatory & Compliance

Monitor and advise on regulatory changes impacting the business
Ensure group-wide compliance policies and procedures are implemented
Support internal compliance initiatives and audits

Disputes & Risk Management

Manage legal disputes and litigation in coordination with external counsel
Provide proactive advice on risk management and dispute avoidance
Handle claims, negotiations, and settlement discussions

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Law (LLB or equivalent); LLM is an advantage
Qualified lawyer
Arabic Speaker
5–10+ years of legal experience
Experience within a family group, conglomerate, or diversified business is highly preferred
Strong knowledge of UAE laws and regulatory environment