How much does a lawyer earn in Dubai?

Average salaries for lawyers in Dubai in 2025

In 2025, salaries for lawyers in Dubai will average between AED 20,000 and AED 60,000 per month, depending on experience, specialisation and the prestige of the law firm. The salary of a lawyer in the UAE employed by an international law firm can exceed even AED 70,000, especially for those with a rich client portfolio. The remuneration of a lawyer in Dubai often includes performance bonuses, housing allowances and medical insurance. High rates are particularly evident in industries such as corporate law, real estate law and international arbitration. An additional advantage is the lack of income tax, which makes the net income of lawyers in Dubai significantly higher than in many European countries. In practice, this means that lawyers can afford a higher standard of living and invest in further professional development.

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The highest-paid legal specialisations

When answering the question of how much a corporate lawyer earns in Dubai, it is worth noting that the highest rates are received by specialists in corporate law, international arbitration and the energy sector.

Salaries for legal professionals in Dubai in these fields can range from AED 50,000 to as much as AED 90,000 per month for senior partners in reputable law firms. Lawyers dealing with commercial arbitration often work on contracts worth hundreds of millions of dollars, which translates into additional bonuses and incentives. Slightly lower, but still high salaries – in the range of AED 35,000–60,000 – are earned by lawyers specialising in maritime law, oil contracts and real estate law. There are many law firms in Dubai handling international transactions, so the demand for experts in these industries is constantly growing.

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Working conditions for lawyers in the Emirates

Working conditions for lawyers in the Emirates depend on the type of law firm. In international companies, an intensive project-based work schedule is the norm, with the need to adapt to clients' time zones. The work often requires flexibility, but in return, numerous benefits are offered, including air tickets, private healthcare and housing allowances. People working in business centres often choose accommodation in Dubai close to their offices, which reduces daily commuting times.

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Requirements and recruitment process

What is the process for obtaining a licence to practise law in Dubai? First, your degree must be recognised by the local authorities. Lawyers from Poland who want to start working as a foreign lawyer in the UAE must undergo a document recognition procedure and, in some cases, pass an exam on the law applicable in the Emirates. Experience in international transactions and knowledge of English at a legal level are welcome. Knowledge of Arabic is an additional advantage, especially in matters relating to local law.

The recruitment process usually involves several stages, from CV verification and interviews with law firm partners to salary negotiations. Working as a lawyer in the United Arab Emirates also requires an appropriate work visa, which is usually arranged by the employer.

Legal service prices in Dubai

Legal service prices in Dubai are among the highest in the region. An hour of an experienced lawyer's time can cost between AED 1,000 and AED 3,000, and even more for the most prestigious law firms. The high rates are a result of the high demand for experts and the complex cases they handle. For comparison, similar services are much cheaper in many European countries.

Taxes and real income – do lawyers in Dubai pay taxes?

The answer to the question whether lawyers in Dubai pay taxes is simple – there is no personal income tax in the UAE. This means that gross salary is also net salary, which significantly increases the real value of the salary. This is one of the main reasons why whether a lawyer in Dubai earns well is not a question but a fact.

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Summary

In summary, the salaries of legal professionals in Dubai are very competitive on a global scale. The best-paid specialisations can provide lawyers with incomes several times higher than in Europe. Attractive working conditions, an international environment and no income tax make Dubai one of the most desirable places to pursue a legal career. For more practical advice, visit Two Continents, where you will find guides not only about working but also about living in the UAE.

Questions and answers - FAQ

• What is the average salary of a lawyer in Dubai?

On average, between AED 20,000 and AED 60,000 per month, depending on experience and specialisation.

• Can a British lawyer work in Dubai?

Yes, provided they meet local licensing requirements and often gain experience in an international law firm.

• Do lawyers in Dubai receive benefits and allowances?

Usually yes – these are most often housing allowances, private health insurance and annual bonuses.