Financial Services Regulatory Lawyer – Dubai/Abu Dhabi

About the role

Our client, a leading international law firm, is expanding its Middle‑East financial services practice and seeks an England & Wales‑qualified Financial Services Regulatory Lawyer (4‑6 PQE) to work from Dubai or Abu Dhabi. You will work closely with a senior Financial Regulatory Partner, advising a diverse portfolio of banks, asset managers, broker‑dealers, fintechs, payment providers and digital‑asset businesses across the UAE and Saudi Arabia.

Key responsibilities

• Provide regulatory advice on licensing, market entry, ongoing compliance and product launches.
• Support cross‑border expansion projects and manage selected contentious regulatory matters.
• Draft and review regulatory documentation, licences and compliance policies.
• Lead work‑streams, supervise junior lawyers and coordinate with internal teams.
• Contribute to business development and the growth of the regional financial services offering.

Required profile

• Qualified in England & Wales with 4‑6 years post‑qualification experience.
• Strong background in financial services regulation gained at a leading international law firm.
• Excellent drafting and advisory abilities.
• Experience with UAE and/or Saudi regulatory frameworks, or the ability to translate experience from another major financial centre.
• Proactive, client‑focused and able to work autonomously.

Required skills

What we offer

• Close interaction with senior partners and direct client exposure.
• Responsibility for significant client matters and junior team leadership.
• Opportunity to shape a fast‑growing practice in the Middle East.