Cooperative Training Scheme Summer 2026

Who we are

AS&H Clifford Chance is one of the leading international law firms operating in Saudi Arabia. As part of the global Clifford Chance network, we combine international reach and standards with deep local expertise, advising on some of the most significant legal, regulatory, and commercial matters in the Kingdom.

Our people work across jurisdictions, cultures, and disciplines to deliver exceptional outcomes for our clients. We believe every career should be rewarding, stimulating, and full of opportunities to learn and grow. That’s why we are proud of our inclusive, collaborative, and team-oriented culture.

Whichever area of the firm you join, you will become part of an ambitious and supportive team, working at the forefront of Saudi Arabia’s evolving legal landscape.

 

The role

Are you a Saudi national university student looking to complete your cooperative training placement at a leading international law firm? AS&H Clifford Chance invites ambitious and motivated students to apply for our Cooperative Trainee Programme, offering an immersive, hands-on experience. 

This programme is designed to give you meaningful exposure to life at a top-tier international law firm operating at the heart of Saudi Arabia’s legal and regulatory transformation. As a cooperative trainee, you will work alongside our lawyers and business professionals, gaining insight into complex, high-impact matters shaping the Kingdom and the wider region.

During the programme, you will be treated as a valued team member from day one. You will contribute to live matters, collaborate with colleagues across practice areas and offices, and develop practical legal, business, and commercial skills in a supportive and inclusive environment.

Strong performers may be considered for future opportunities with the firm, including progression into Junior Associate roles, subject to business needs.

This immersive programme is your opportunity to:

• Work alongside our lawyers and business professionals at AS&H Clifford Chance.
• Gain authentic exposure to market-leading transactions and projects shaping Saudi Arabia and the wider Middle East.
• Participate in professional development sessions, networking events, and mentoring opportunities.
• Develop your legal, business, and commercial skills through real-world tasks and group projects.

 

Why join AS&H Clifford Chance?

As a Cooperative Trainee, you will benefit from:

• The opportunity to choose your preferred practice area.
• A dedicated mentor and trainee buddy throughout the programme.
• Access to the Clifford Chance Global Academy, offering unparalleled learning and development.
• Exposure to high-impact, market-leading work across the Kingdom.
• A competitive salary.
• A modern, collaborative working environment in our brand-new Business Gate office.
• The opportunity to be considered for future Junior Associate roles.

 

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Cooperative Trainee Programme, candidates must meet the following requirements:

• Saudi nationality
• Minimum academic GPA of 4.5/5.0 or 3.5/4.0
• Full-time availability for the full duration of the cooperative training
• Currently enrolled in a university requiring a cooperative placement as part of the degree programme

 

Programme Intakes & Deadlines

• Applications open: 16 February 2026
• Applications close: 31st May 2026
• Start dates: From July 2026 onwards

 

Skills & Attributes

We are looking for candidates who demonstrate:

• Strong communication skills in Arabic and English.
• Commercial awareness and an interest in the legal and regulatory landscape.
• A proactive, organised, and professional approach to work.
• The ability to collaborate effectively in a team-based environment.
• Curiosity, motivation, and a genuine desire to learn.

 

Application Process

• Submit an online application with all required documents – CV, Academic transcript showing current GPA and University confirmation letter confirming the cooperative training requirement.
• Complete an assessment online.
• Attend an interview with members of our team.

As part of the application process, candidates will have the opportunity to indicate their preferred practice area, including:

• Corporate / Capital Markets
• Banking & Finance
• Litigation
• Public Policy

Final allocations will be confirmed following the assessment and interview process.

Applicants must successfully pass all stages of the assessment and interview process to be considered.

 

Equal opportunities

At Clifford Chance, we understand that our true asset is our people. Inclusion is good for our team and their families, our firm and society. 

We have a variety of flourishing employee networks. These networks are a place for colleagues to share experiences and advocate for change wherever they see an opportunity for improvement.

Our goal is to deliver an equality of opportunity, an equality of aspiration and an equality of experience to everyone who works in our firm.

Find out more about our inclusive culture here