Our Emirati Internship Programme is designed exclusively for UAE Nationals. This is your opportunity to gain hands-on experience at a leading international law firm and explore a career in the legal profession. This programme is targeted at graduates or those in their final year of university study.

Programme Overview

The programme blends hands-on experience with professional development sessions and networking opportunities alongside our lawyers and business professionals.

Spend up to 4 weeks in our Abu Dhabi or Dubai office experiencing life at Freshfields. Gain authentic insights into the work of a Global Elite law firm and the opportunity to get involved in market-leading Middle Eastern projects which are shaping the landscape.  

For over 80 years, Freshfields has been advising clients across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. We pride ourselves on our technical excellence, pragmatic approach and strong execution capabilities, enabling us to successfully navigate the complexities of transactional work in the region.

Freshfields is consistently recognised by clients and the market as a top tier firm in the region across our Global Transactions and Dispute Resolution practices. We offer market-leading capabilities that have been recognised in landmark transactions and regulatory matters across the MENA region and globally.

Freshfields is committed to shaping the careers of young professionals and supporting our Responsible Business goals by offering UAE Nationals meaningful learning opportunities.  

As a Global Elite law firm, we bring:

• Access to a strong network of experienced legal and business professionals across the MENA region and globally; Freshfields has 32 offices across 16 jurisdictions, also partnering closely with a broad network of 300+ local law firms with relationships established via our StrongerTogether programme
• A collaborative culture across offices worldwide using an integrated global platform (“one firm globally”)
• Market-leading expertise providing cross-border legal services across regions, sectors and industries against three essential client needs (transactional, risk and regulatory); The Chambers Global 2025 has recognised Freshfields as Band 1 globally across our Antitrust, Corporate/ M&A, Dispute Resolution, International Arbitration, Public International Law, Private Equity, and Tax.
• Exposure to legal professionals involved in complex, multi-jurisdictional matters across Global Transactions and Dispute Resolution practices
• An inclusive culture that fosters a sense of belonging that supports colleagues to thrive
• A strong focus on well-being, supported by opportunities to attend webinars and attend community impact programmes
• Innovative technology-based solutions through a multi-disciplinary team of Generative AI specialists dedicated to develop bespoke solutions that optimise our delivery on client mandates; Freshfields has been recognised by the 2024 FT Innovative Lawyer Awards as the “Most digital law firm in Europe” and the Winner in “Innovation in regulatory solutions”.

• Engage in a variety of tasks, including drafting memorandums, translating documents and conducting research, while collaborating on group projects to strengthen your teamwork and presentation skills  
• Network with lawyers and senior leaders through informal lunches and sessions
• Access Freshfields training and development resources 
• Receive guidance and feedback from qualified solicitors
• Meet regularly with the local HR team for tailored advice and reflection sessions throughout the internship.
• Benefit from mentoring and building international connections
• Contribute to UAE projects and pro-bono matters supporting social goals
• Upskill through our learning platform on legal drafting, client management and business development training

This internship offers real world experience helping you develop essential skills to position yourself for success in the legal profession.

• AED 1000 per week
• Gain practical legal and professional skills
• Add a prestigious Global Elite law firm to your CV
• Build your network with leading lawyers
• Experience work in Dispute Resolution and Global Transactions
• Receive personalised feedback and mentoring
• Access training and development programmes

Stage 1 – Application
Submit your application via Workday and complete the accompanying questionnaire.

Stage 2 – Interview
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an interview.

Stage 3 – Offers
Successful candidates will receive internship offers in early March 2026.

Applications open on Monday, 5 January 2026.

Candidates will be able to submit their applications here, during the application window.

Please note that applications sent via email will not be accepted.

Eligibility

• UAE National (passport and Emirates ID required)
• Final-year law student or recent graduate
• Available for an in-person programme in the UAE