Legal Counsel

A leading real estate developer and asset manager in Dubai is seeking an experienced legal counsel to support a fast-paced Hospitality Division across hotel development and operations.

This role is ideal for a commercially minded lawyer who enjoys being close to the business — supporting growth, managing risk, and driving best practice across hospitality legal matters.

What you'll be doing

• Drafting, reviewing and negotiating key hospitality agreements (HMA, TSA, lease, franchise, branded restaurant contracts)
• Supporting procurement contract reviews (vendor / OS&E / FF&E)
• Advising on corporate governance and hospitality asset structures
• Supporting hospitality real estate transactions (acquisition, sale, lease)
• Conducting legal due diligence for hotel and development projects
• Managing disputes (negotiation, mediation, arbitration) and liaising with external counsel and authorities
• Driving compliance across hospitality operations (licensing, tourism, data protection, consumer protection)
• Creating/maintaining legal templates, policies, and documentation

What we're looking for

• LLB (or equivalent) + admitted to practice in a recognized jurisdiction
• 7–8 years PQE, with strong hospitality sector experience
• Proven experience negotiating hotel management agreements and related contracts
• Commercial, proactive, solutions-driven, and confident partnering with senior stakeholders
• UAE/GCC experience is a plus