Training Pathway:

Becoming a lawyer in the UAE requires formal legal education, practical training, and adherence to regulatory requirements. The legal system in the UAE is based on a mix of civil law (influenced by Islamic law) and common law principles., particularly in free zones like the DIFC (Dubai International Financial Centre).

1. Educational Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree in Law (LLB): The primary qualification for aspiring lawyers, typically a four-year program offered by universities such as UAE University, University of Sharjah, and Abu Dhabi University.
Master’s Degree in Law (LLM)
Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL)

2. Practical Training (Legal Internships)

Law graduates must complete a mandatory training period (legal internship) at a recognized law firm or legal department.
The training duration varies from 6 months to 1 year.

Certification Requirements:

Lawyers must obtain a professional license from the relevant authority:

UAE Ministry of Justice (MOJ)- for practicing in federal courts.
Dubai Legal Affairs Department (DLAD)- for practicing in Dubai’s local courts.
Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD)- for practicing in Abu Dhabi.
DIFC Courts License- for practicing in the Dubai International Financial Centre, which follows common law.
To qualify for a license, candidates must:
Pass a bar exam or legal competency roles assessment.
Be a UAE citizen or a GCC national (except for legal consultancy roles, which are open to expatriates).
Have a good standing and no criminal record.