Disputes Associate / Senior Associate (3-5 PQE) – Dubai

About the role

A&O Shearman is seeking a qualified lawyer with 3‑5 years of post‑qualification experience to join its Disputes team in Dubai. The role involves handling high‑stakes, cross‑border disputes across infrastructure, construction, commercial arbitration, offshore litigation and investigations.

Key responsibilities

• Assess client positions and develop legal strategies for complex disputes.
• Draft pleadings, motions, arbitration submissions and other high‑level documents.
• Conduct discovery, manage case files and coordinate with interdisciplinary practice groups.
• Participate in negotiations, settlement discussions and, when required, trial preparation.
• Provide advisory support to state entities, public bodies and corporate clients.

Required profile

• Common Law qualified lawyer with 3‑5 PQE.
• Strong analytical and drafting abilities.
• Intellectual curiosity, self‑motivation and ability to manage multiple deadlines.
• Excellent client relationship and communication skills.
• Commercial acumen and pragmatic problem‑solving approach.

Required skills

What we offer

• Dynamic work environment within a leading international law firm.
• Opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration regionally and globally.
• Secondment programmes and exposure to diverse cultures.
• Dedicated local and global training, including communication, IT, management and business development.
• Supportive, high‑performing team culture.