The Middle East legal market continues to evolve rapidly, driven by international law firms expanding their presence, governments diversifying economies, and increased foreign direct investment. Investors are focusing on high-growth sectors such as technology, infrastructure, and sustainable energy, creating strong demand for experienced legal professionals across corporate, finance, and disputes.

Deal activity has rebounded – and sectors in demand are diversifying
After a challenging period marked by inflation, rising interest rates, and global uncertainty, M&A activity across the GCC rebounded in 2024, and this is expected to continue into 2025. GCC nations, particularly Saudi Arabia and the UAE, are advancing efforts to reduce dependence on oil by accelerating investments in technology, infrastructure, healthcare, and sustainable energy. This diversification is reshaping legal service needs, with growing opportunities in corporate advisory, intellectual property, and regulatory compliance. The demand for private capital, particularly in infrastructure and energy transition projects, is at an all-time high. Saudi Arabia’s ongoing market liberalisation, part of Vision 2030, continues to attract international investors, further boosting economic activity.

Law firms are still committed to the region
The region remains a priority for international law firms looking to capitalise on economic growth. Firms such as Skadden have opened offices in Abu Dhabi to serve expanding corporate and financial markets. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia’s ongoing legal reforms, tied to Vision 2030, have encouraged firms to strengthen their capabilities in dispute resolution and regulatory advisory. Dubai remains a central hub, with established firms reinforcing their teams in high-demand practice areas.

The legal recruitment landscape is evolving
Firms are now seeking lawyers who have both regional experience and sector-specific expertise. Demand for senior-level professionals remains strong, particularly for those with proven track records in business development and client retention.

• Corporate & M&A: Deal volume remains high, though deal values are growing at a measured pace. Law firms are advising clients on navigating new regulatory frameworks around foreign ownership and business restructuring.
• Banking & Finance: Demand is growing in finance and project finance, driven by the need for structured financing in infrastructure and energy.
• Dispute Resolution & Arbitration: Saudi Arabia’s legal reforms are enhancing the region’s dispute resolution framework, with arbitration increasingly favoured over traditional litigation.
• Regulatory & Compliance: Businesses are focusing on anti-money laundering, data protection, and ESG compliance, with strong demand for financial regulatory specialists, highlighted by hires at firms like Dentons.
• Projects, Energy & Infrastructure: Large-scale infrastructure and energy transition projects continue to shape hiring trends in project finance, construction, and regulatory.
• Technology, Data Privacy & IP: With stricter data protection laws in the region, there is rising demand for regulatory lawyers in these areas. Firms such as CMS have expanded their technology team in KSA in response.

With business booming in the Middle East, there is continued demand for experienced lawyers in both private practice and in-house. Career benefits include the opportunity to be part of small, high-quality teams doing cutting-edge international legal work; the chance to gain more client exposure and responsibility quicker in your legal career, leading to faster progression, and last but not least, the chance to earn tax-free salary packages. Please contact one of our experienced and well-connected team to find out more.