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Middle EastYou are here: Destinations > International > Middle East
One of the last jurisdictions to feel the effects of the global slowdown, the UAE fell hard. The major firms that were initially redeploying lawyers out of London to Dubai ultimately included the Middle Eastern offices in the redundancy programs that followed. It is expected that the Dubai economy will be subdued for some time.
In part due to its enormous wealth, Abu Dhabi has weathered the crisis well. In our 2008 survey we reported that Abu Dhabi was the growth area for firms in the Middle East. Whilst firms have slowed their growth plans, the focus remains on Abu Dhabi.
The down turn has presented opportunities for construction litigators. There are also opportunities in banking and finance and corporate with some of the smaller firms.
The strategy of some firms is to add to their senior ranks highly rated Emirati lawyers who bring local contacts.
About United Arab EmiratesThe United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a country of contrasts between the modern and the traditional. It is located on the Arabian Gulf and is a federation of seven emirates: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al-Qaiwain, Ras Al-Khaimah and Fujairah. Abu Dhabi and Dubai are the two principal centres of the UAE.
The UAE was formed when independence was achieved in 1971. The UAE has a total population of approximately 4.2 million. The most liberal and westernised of all Middle East countries, foreign workers and expatriates comprise approximately three quarters of its population. The majority of expats come from India, Pakistan, and the Philippines with many others arriving from countries such as Egypt, the United Kingdom, Lebanon, and North America. In recent years, increasing numbers of Australian professionals are heading to the UAE to experience a different way of life.
Arabic is the official language although English is widely spoken. Most English-speaking expats find that they can get by with virtually no Arabic, especially those working in the major centres. Arguably, the UAE has the most important legal market in the Middle East, being a favourable and safe living environment with a range of quality firms.
Mahlab is in regular contact with the leading firms in the UAE to discuss their recruitment needs. A Mahlab consultant can answer further questions or give you an outline of the necessary steps to secure your ideal position in the Middle East.
About Abu DhabiAbu Dhabi is the largest emirate in the UAE. It is the capital and political centre and is the home of the President of the UAE. Abu Dhabi is the source of most oil wealth and is where legislation originates. For this reason, Abu Dhabi is largely concerned with governmental matters, oil and energy work.
About DubaiDubai is a growing city and has been referred to as the Paris of the Middle East. It is the hub for regional commercial business and is much more varied, commercially focused and entrepreneurial than Abu Dhabi. Lifestyle is a very attractive feature of Dubai. The city has endless entertainment, shopping, history, culture, beaches, water sports, and more.
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