Legal Counsel - Regional Banking Role (MEA)

Job Description

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Legal Counsel to join a regional legal team supporting business operations across MEA. This role offers exposure to a wide range of legal matters, providing commercially focused advice in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

Client Details

Our client is a leading international financial institution with a strong presence across the Middle East and Africa, operating as a regional hub from Dubai. The organisation is known for its commitment to governance, integrity, and delivering sophisticated banking and advisory solutions to corporate clients.

• Provide proactive legal advice on commercial, transactional, and regulatory matters across MEA
• Review and negotiate commercial contracts, vendor agreements, and outsourcing arrangements
• Advise on banking products including trade finance instruments and standard corporate lending documentation
• Support legal aspects of corporate projects, internal initiatives, and process improvements
• Conduct legal research on regional laws and regulations and communicate key updates to stakeholders
• Assist with management of external counsel, including instruction, fee negotiation, and cost monitoring
• Contribute to governance, risk management, and regulatory compliance across the regional business
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders across business units to manage legal and reputational risk

• Qualified lawyer with approximately 4+ years PQE gained in private practice or in-house within financial services
• Strong knowledge of MEA legal and regulatory frameworks, particularly in banking and finance
• Experience with commercial contracts, outsourcing, and vendor management
• Exposure to corporate banking, finance transactions, or capital markets is advantageous
• Practical, hands-on approach with the ability to deliver clear, business-focused legal advice
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills in a multicultural environment
• Fluent English required; Arabic language skills are beneficial but not essential
• Highly organised, adaptable, and able to manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines

• Opportunity to work within a leading organisation in the financial services sector
• A professional and collaborative working environment in Dubai
• Potential for career growth and development within the legal department

If you are an experienced legal professional with expertise in the financial services industry, apply today to take the next step in your career as an AVP - Legal Counsel in Dubai.

Desired Skills and Experience

Stakeholder management