Emirati Development Programme 2026

Who we are

We are one of the largest international law firms in the world. With over 30 offices across the globe, we strive to exceed the expectations of our clients, providing them with the highest-quality advice and legal insight, which combines the firm’s global standards with in-depth local expertise.

Our firm, work and people span jurisdictions, cultures, and languages. We offer our clients a truly international perspective. We believe every career should be rewarding and stimulating - full of opportunities to learn, thrive, and grow. That’s why we’re so proud of our inclusive, friendly, and team-based approach to work.

Our one firm global strategy is focused on targeted growth led by the needs of our core clients, those who we can best support with the breadth and depth of Clifford Chance expertise, across the sectors and geographies, which matter most to them.

You’ll find our clients in commercial and industrial sectors, the financial investor community, governments, regulators, trade bodies, and not-for-profit organisations. But no matter who they are or why they’ve reached out to us, we provide a world-class service every step of the way. And that’s possible thanks to the entrepreneurial spirit and conscientious approach to work that you’ll find across all of our teams.

Whichever area of the business you join, you’ll become an integral part an innovative, diverse and ambitious team of people. Clifford Chance is a place where the brightest minds and the best of colleagues meet.

Job overview

Are you an Emirati graduate or final-year university student eager to discover what a career in law could look like for you? Clifford Chance invites you to join our exciting 2-week Emirati Development Programme, designed to give UAE Nationals hands-on experience at a leading international law firm and a unique insight into the legal profession.

This immersive programme is your opportunity to:

• Work alongside our lawyers and business professionals in our Dubai and Abu Dhabi offices
• Gain authentic exposure to market-leading transactions and projects shaping the 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

During the programme, you’ll be a valued team member from day one. You’ll be actively involved in live deals and will have the opportunity to collaborate with colleagues across different offices and practice areas. Our culture is collaborative, inclusive, and focused on supporting your growth and well-being.

Candidates who excel during the programme may be invited to interview for our 2-year Training Contract—an incredible platform  to launch your legal career with Clifford Chance.

Key dates

• Applications open: 19 January 2026
• Applications close: 16 February 2026
• Programme dates: April 2026 - exact dates to be confirmed
• Location: Dubai and Abu Dhabi offices

Application process

Submit your online application. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a pre-recorded video interview before a virtual interview with our legal team.

What skills are we looking for

We are looking for Emirati graduates (or those in their final year of study) who are:

• Committed to building a career in the Middle East
• Commercially aware and client-focused
• Strong communicators, both orally and in writing
• Collaborative, organised, and proactive
• Eager to learn and make a positive impact

Eligibility

• UAE Nationals (Emirati passport holders)
• Final-year students or recent graduates from any discipline
• Fluent in Arabic and English

What we offer including our broad range of benefits and working environment

When you join Clifford Chance, you will have access to a broad range of benefits to support you across many aspects of your personal and professional life including financial, wellbeing, lifestyle, and family friendly benefits. For more information on what we offer specifically in the UK, please visit our What We Offer page on our career site. 

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 are committed to treating all employees and applicants fairly and equally regardless of their gender, gender identity and expression, marital or civil partnership status, race, colour, national or ethnic origin, social or economic background, disability, religious belief, sexual orientation, or age.  This applies to recruitment and selection, terms and conditions of employment including pay, promotion, training, transfer and every other aspect of employment.

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