Making Links Asia University Programme – Abu Dhabi

About the role

The Making Links Asia University Programme is designed to help talented university students with underrepresented backgrounds succeed in their early legal careers, developing technical and professional skills while building commercial fluency and a global outlook. The Abu Dhabi cohort is part of a wider programme offered in ten network offices across Asia, with content delivered in English.

Required profile

• First-year law student
• Native Arabic speaker
• Underrepresented background
• Committed to a career in commercial law
• Consistent academic performance

What we offer

• A series of interactive webinars and online learning organised regionally (January to June)
• One-on-one coaching sessions
• A paid work experience programme in the closest local office
• An additional sponsorship of two weeks' salary, paid at the start of the work experience
• Invitations to local office activities
• A strong focus on developing confidence in written and spoken English in a professional setting

To apply, candidates must submit a CV, transcript of records and a cover letter; applications without the transcript and cover letter will not be considered. The cover letter should explain why the candidate is a good fit, how they identify as having an underrepresented background, why they are applying and what they hope to achieve, and why they are interested in commercial law and Linklaters. Shortlisted students are invited to a short video interview with an HR team member. The application deadline is 31 October 2026.