Job Description:
The Compliance Counsel in Dubai plays a vital role in guiding the organization through legal and regulatory complexities to ensure strict adherence to internal policies and external legal requirements. This role requires a deep understanding of UAE and international compliance frameworks, especially related to anti-corruption, anti-money laundering (AML), data privacy, and trade compliance. The counsel advises management on potential compliance risks, develops policies and procedures, reviews business operations for legal exposure, and collaborates with departments to foster a culture of legal and ethical integrity. The role also involves preparing compliance reports for senior leadership, representing the company during regulatory inquiries or audits, and supporting training initiatives across business units. Additionally, the Compliance Counsel works closely with external law firms and government agencies to interpret evolving legislation, manage cross-border regulatory risks, and support corporate investigations. This role is strategic in nature, requiring the ability to forecast compliance challenges, recommend risk mitigation strategies, and protect the organization’s legal and reputational standing.
Job Requirement:
The ideal candidate must hold a law degree from an accredited institution and be licensed to practice law in a recognized jurisdiction. A postgraduate qualification in Compliance or Risk Management is advantageous. Candidates should have 6 to 9 years of experience in compliance law, preferably within multinational corporations or financial institutions operating in the UAE. In-depth knowledge of UAE regulatory bodies (e.g., DFSA, MOHRE, FTA) and international standards such as FCPA, GDPR, and FATCA is essential. The role requires strong legal drafting skills, policy development capability, and the ability to manage compliance systems. Fluency in English is mandatory, while Arabic is a plus. Candidates must be detail-oriented, organized, and able to handle confidential matters with discretion.
