Mid-Level Associate (3 to 5 PQE) – Commercial & Construction Disputes - UAE

Mid-Level Associate (3 to 5 PQE) – Commercial & Construction Disputes - UAE

We are seeking a talented and driven Associate (3–5 PQE) to join our leading Dispute Resolution practice in the UAE. This role offers the opportunity to work on a broad range of high-value commercial, construction, and arbitration matters across the Middle East, advising major regional and international clients on complex and strategically important disputes.

The successful candidate will work closely with partners and senior lawyers on contentious matters spanning commercial contracts, construction and infrastructure projects, shareholder and corporate disputes, energy and utilities, and international arbitration proceedings. The role requires strong technical legal skills, commercial awareness, and experience handling disputes within the UAE and wider Middle East region.

Essential Requirements

• 3–5 years' post-qualification experience (PQE).
• Qualified lawyer from a recognised common law jurisdiction (England & Wales, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, etc.).
• Experience gained within a leading international, regional, or top-tier law firm.
• Strong experience in commercial litigation, construction disputes, and/or international arbitration.
• Demonstrable experience advising on complex contentious matters across the Middle East.
• Sound understanding of dispute resolution procedures, including arbitration and court proceedings.
• Strong drafting, analytical, and legal research skills.
• Excellent client management and stakeholder engagement abilities.
• Commercially minded with the ability to provide pragmatic and business-focused advice.

Preferred Requirements

• Experience advising on disputes arising from construction, infrastructure, engineering, energy, and major projects.
• Familiarity with arbitration rules including ICC, DIAC, LCIA, SIAC, and ADCCAC.
• Working knowledge of UAE legal frameworks, including DIFC and ADGM jurisdictions.
• Arabic language skills would be advantageous but are not essential.

Key Responsibilities

Dispute Resolution & Case Management

• Assist in the management and delivery of complex commercial, construction, and arbitration matters.
• Work closely with partners to develop dispute strategies and case theories.
• Analyse legal and factual issues and identify practical solutions to achieve client objectives.
• Support clients throughout all stages of dispute resolution proceedings.

Drafting & Legal Analysis

• Draft pleadings, submissions, witness statements, expert instructions, procedural applications, and settlement documentation.
• Conduct detailed legal research and prepare high-quality legal advice and strategic recommendations.
• Review and analyse contractual documentation, project records, and evidentiary materials.

Arbitration & Construction Disputes

• Assist in the preparation and conduct of domestic and international arbitration proceedings.
• Support the management of construction and infrastructure disputes, including delay, disruption, variation, defect, and payment-related claims.
• Coordinate with technical experts, quantum specialists, and external consultants where required.

Client & Stakeholder Management

• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients through responsive and commercially focused service delivery.
• Liaise with clients, experts, opposing counsel, arbitral tribunals, and other stakeholders.
• Participate in client meetings, case strategy discussions, and business development initiatives.

Team Collaboration & Development

• Work collaboratively with colleagues across the firm's regional offices and practice groups.
• Supervise and mentor junior team members where appropriate.
• Contribute to knowledge-sharing, training initiatives, and thought leadership activities.

Financial & Commercial Responsibilities

• Manage matters efficiently and in accordance with client expectations and firm standards.
• Meet agreed billing, utilisation, and collection targets.
• Demonstrate strong commercial awareness and contribute to the growth of the practice.

Interested candidates can apply to this Job Advertisement or send their CVs directly to t.wahid@tamimi.com

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted