Rayan, Lily and Zahra

Coming from different backgrounds and academic stages, the three of us—Rayan, Lily, and Zahra—joined the Freshfields Dubai work experience scheme eager to look past the global reputation and experience the day-to-day reality of a premier international firm. Our time here delivered exactly that. We left with a far more sophisticated view of high-level legal practice and a clear appreciation for the relentless curiosity, teamwork, and energy that fuels the Dubai office.

We began by immersing ourselves in research and analysis, exploring the distinctions between offshore and onshore regulations and developing a clearer picture of how different legal frameworks operate in parallel within the same jurisdiction. Alongside this, we tackled a series of problem questions covering wasted expenditure, reliance damages, restitutionary damages and unjust enrichment areas that tested our ability to apply legal reasoning carefully and precisely. We also had the opportunity to write a blog post on arbitration, which pushed us to distil complex procedural concepts into clear, accessible writing. Completing all of the Freshfields learning modules complemented this foundation, giving us structured insight into the firm's practice areas and values, and helping us contextualise the work we were doing on the ground.

A significant portion of our time was devoted to a large multi-jurisdiction M&A case, where we were given genuinely substantive responsibilities. We conducted document review, carried out due diligence, and worked through a Virtual Data Room (VDR), carefully analysing the materials contained within it. This exposure to a live, complex transaction gave us a real appreciation for the painstaking rigour that underpins major commercial deals and for the importance of accuracy and attention to detail at every stage of the process. We also had the privilege of shadowing a client meeting focused on an M&A disclosure letter, which offered an invaluable window into how legal advice is delivered and refined in direct response to client needs.

One of the most memorable moments of the programme was being given the opportunity to shadow on pro bono work. It allowed us to understand and experience the firm’s commitment to using its legal expertise to help those who would otherwise lack access to it. Being able to witness that really broadened our understanding of what a career in law can look like and mean beyond commercial practice. It served as a reminder of how the profession can carry responsibilities that extend well beyond the transaction.

But overall, what truly played the biggest role in our experience was not just the breadth of work we were exposed to, but rather the people who helped shape our time here. The associates and the partners were never short of being generous with their time, encouragement, and insights. Repeatedly we were met with genuine warmth and kindness by everyone in the office, which allowed us to feel comfortable reach out for help and continue to learn. Individuals were consistently generous, patient, and thoughtful not only helping us navigate tasks but taking a genuine interest in our development and sharing honest, considered advice about the profession. Their support gave us the confidence to engage with everything the programme had to offer. We value the fact that we are able to leave Freshfields Dubai having been inspired, better equipped, and deeply grateful.