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)