Senior Legal Counsel

Contextual Overview

Knight Frank Middle East is seeking an experienced Senior Legal Counsel to provide comprehensive legal advice and support across its MENA business operations. Based in Dubai and reporting directly to the Partner and Head of Legal, this in-house role handles a diverse portfolio spanning commercial contracts, real estate consultancy agreements, tendering, regulatory compliance, corporate governance, risk management, and dispute resolution.

Key Eligibility Criteria

• Bachelor’s degree in Law from an accredited institution (postgraduate qualification is considered an advantage).
• Minimum of 10 years of relevant legal experience within the MENA region, featuring substantial practical exposure in both the UAE and Saudi Arabia.
• Qualified lawyer admitted to the bar or holding an equivalent professional qualification in a recognised jurisdiction.
• Strong working knowledge of UAE and Saudi Arabian laws, regulations, corporate governance, and business operations.
• Experience working within an international organisation, preferably in real estate consultancy, property services, construction, engineering, or related professional services.

Responsibilities & Scope of Work

• Provide legal advice and support to business teams across the MENA region on commercial, contractual, regulatory, and corporate matters.
• Review, draft, and negotiate complex commercial contracts, client service agreements, non-disclosure agreements, and FIDIC/construction-related contracts.
• Assess contractual and commercial risks associated with requests for proposals, tenders, and client engagements.
• Monitor regulatory changes across MENA, conduct gap analyses, and ensure ongoing compliance.
• Manage corporate governance and entity-related matters, including trade licence renewals and corporate restructuring.
• Support the management and resolution of disputes, claims, mediations, and arbitrations while coordinating with external legal counsel.

Stipend, Compensation & Mode

Compensation: Not Specified

Mode: Full-time, On-site (Dubai, UAE with regional travel as required)

Application Procedure & Required Documents

1. Access the official job posting via the provided LinkedIn application portal.
2. Ensure your professional profile and CV reflect the required 10+ years of MENA legal experience, specifically detailing UAE and Saudi Arabia practice.
3. Submit your application directly through the official institutional listing.

Official Notification & Contact Information

Official Portal: Knight Frank Middle East LinkedIn Job Portal

Recruitment Contact: Rakhi Dewani, Talent Acquisition Manager - MENA