Senior Corporate Legal Counsel (FZ & Banking Compliance)

About the role

We are seeking a dynamic, results‑driven Senior Corporate Legal Counsel to lead corporate legal matters, banking compliance and Free Zone company formations in Dubai. The role requires deep knowledge of UAE corporate law, strong relationships with banks and regulators, and the ability to manage complex cross‑border structures.

Key responsibilities

• Draft, review and negotiate commercial contracts, shareholders’ agreements, NDAs and other legal documents.
• Provide strategic legal advice on operational risks, corporate governance and statutory requirements.
• Maintain corporate records, board minutes and resolutions in line with UAE Federal Decree‑Laws and Free Zone regulations.
• Lead banking compliance processes, coordinate corporate account openings, KYC/AML requirements and facility documentation.
• Ensure alignment with Central Bank guidelines, Economic Substance Regulations and UBO filing obligations.
• Manage end‑to‑end Mainland and Free Zone entity setup, license renewals, amendments, restructuring and deregistration across DMCC, DIFC, JAFZA, DAFZA and SAIF Zone.
• Oversee visa renewals, upload trade licences to relevant portals and support VAT compliance.
• Liaise with authorities, banks and external counsel to resolve regulatory queries.

Required profile

• Minimum 5 years post‑qualification experience in UAE corporate law, either in a reputable law firm or an in‑house legal department.
• Bachelor of Laws (LLB) required; Master of Laws (LLM) or equivalent legal certifications are an advantage.
• Qualified lawyer status in the home jurisdiction is a plus.

Required skills

• In‑depth knowledge of UAE Corporate Law.
• Strong understanding of Free Zone and Mainland company regulations.
• Practical experience with banking compliance, KYC/AML, UBO filing and Economic Substance Regulations.