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Emirati Development Programme

Based in our Dubai and Abu Dhabi offices, you will discover what a career in law could look like for you during our dynamic Emirati Development Programme.


You will have the opportunity to:

  • Work alongside our lawyers and business professionals across key global product groups
  • Gain exposure to market-leading transactions and projects shaping the Middle East
  • Participate in professional development workshops, networking events and mentoring sessions
  • Develop essential legal, commercial and communication skills through practical tasks and collaborative group work

This programme offers UAE Nationals a focused and guided experience designed to support your early development and deepen your understanding of the legal profession. It also provides valuable insight into our collaborative culture and commitment to excellence.


Participants who excel during the programme may be invited to interview for our Training Contract, offering a pathway towards launching a long-term legal career with us in the Middle East.



Eligibility

 

  • UAE Nationals (Emirati passport holders)
  • Final-year students or recent graduates from any discipline
  • Fluent in Arabic and English
  • Committed to building a career in the Middle East

Eligibility
Key dates

Key dates

Applications open: w/c 19 January 2026

Applications close: 27 February 2026

Programme Dates: April 2026

Location: Dubai and Abu Dhabi offices

Register your interest
Middle East Insight Day

Middle East Insight Day

Join us for an exclusive Insight Day at the Clifford Chance London office on 12 November 2026, designed for students and graduates interested in building a legal career in the Middle East. Network with distinguished lawyers from the region and gain valuable insights into the Middle East legal market, legal profession and career opportunities. Receive expert guidance on crafting a competitive application for our Middle East graduate and training contract opportunities. Whether you're a law or non-law student, or a recent graduate, this event is your gateway to understanding the realities of practising law in the Middle East and working in an international law firm. Secure your place today and take the first step towards an exciting and rewarding legal career in the region.

Apply now

Before you apply

We do not recruit on a rolling basis, so there is no advantage to submitting your application early. All applications are reviewed after the closing date to ensure every candidate is assessed fairly and consistently. Before applying, we encourage you to explore the information below to learn more about Clifford Chance, our Early Talent programmes and the application process.

Guidance for your application Watson Glaser Practice Test Events Hub Global Virtual Internships

Guidance for your application

Guidance for your application

We’ve created guidance to support you through each stage of the application, with insights on the form and practical tips to help you start with confidence.


Read more

Watson Glaser Practice Test

How we hire

Before taking the Watson Glaser test, we recommend practicing as much as possible to become familiar with the format and question style. Use the link below to practice as many times as you like. Practice attempts won’t be assessed, and Clifford Chance will not see your results.


TRY THE TEST

Events Hub

Events Hub

Our virtual and in-person events cover a wide range of topics, from application guidance and assessment process insights to career development and life at Clifford Chance. Designed to support you at every stage of the recruitment journey, these events provide valuable advice, practical tips and opportunities to learn more about our Early Talent programmes.

Global Virtual Internships

Global Virtual Internships

Our award-winning virtual work experience programmes provide in-depth resources to help you explore a career in commercial law. Gain first-hand insight into the work of a lawyer, develop your understanding of the legal profession, and access learning materials created by Clifford Chance experts.

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