Legal Counsel - Real Estate Development

Role Overview

We are seeking a qualified Legal Counsel with solid experience in real estate development in the UAE. The role will support the company's development activities across the full project lifecycle, ensuring legal compliance, risk mitigation, and effective contract management.

Key Responsibilities

· Advise on land acquisition, sale and purchase agreements, options, and joint venture arrangements

· Conduct legal due diligence, including title review, land registry matters, easements, and encumbrances

· Advise on zoning, planning approvals, master developer regulations, and authority requirements (e.g., DLD, RERA, DM, ADM, DMT, Trakheesi, etc., as applicable)

· Draft, review, and negotiate development-related contracts, including construction, consultancy, PMC, and design agreements

· Support project structuring, financing transactions, and security documentation in coordination with finance teams

· Advise on off-plan sales, leasing, disclosures, and escrow compliance

· Manage claims, disputes, and coordinate with external counsel when required

· Ensure compliance with UAE real estate, construction, commercial, and regulatory laws

· Provide ongoing legal support during construction, handover, and operational phases

Requirements

· Law degree from a recognized institution

· Minimum 4 years of legal experience within a real estate developer in the UAE (essential)

· Strong knowledge of UAE real estate, construction, and commercial laws

· Experience with development agreements, construction contracts, and authority approvals

· Familiarity with off-plan sales regulations and escrow arrangements

· Strong drafting, negotiation, and analytical skills

· Ability to manage multiple projects and work closely with cross-functional teams

Preferred Qualifications

· Experience with large-scale residential, commercial, or mixed-use developments

· Common law qualification with UAE real estate experience

· Arabic language skills (advantage)