United Arab Emirates

If you have not studied a law degree, you will need to complete the Postgraduate Diploma in Law (PGDL) as a first step. Before you can start as a trainee in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, or Riyadh, you'll need to complete the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) at the University of Law in London.

As well as SQE 1 and 2, you'll complete the SQE Plus. This course builds on the core legal modules previously covered and is unique and fully tailored to our Firm, allowing you to gain further experience and critical skills specifically relevant to your career with White & Case in the Middle East.

Once you've completed the 11 months of study for the SQE 1, 2 and Plus, you'll then complete your qualifying work experience (QWE) with the Firm: the two-year training contract in Abu Dhabi or Dubai or Riyadh.

To learn more about your SQE journey, you can view the full program outline here.

Next, it's time to make the move to your new office. You'll already be familiar with the team, as you will have support and contacts locally and in London during your studies. You will also have had the opportunity to join social events and get to know some of your new colleagues already.

Support for your growth and development

Everyone needs back-up. Not only will you work directly with our partners and senior associates, you'll have the benefit of a dedicated supervisor and ongoing support from the HR team.

Together, they'll ensure that your skills, knowledge and practical experience are constantly expanded.

Over two years, you'll move between four different seats. This is your chance to learn about different areas of the law and the work that we do on some of the most notable deals in the Emirates and the wider Middle East region and beyond.

From day one, you'll be doing real work for real clients as part of a team including associates and partners. Put your legal knowledge into action for our clients' benefit and challenge yourself to grow and develop as a lawyer in this fast-growing and exciting part of the world.

What you'll be doing

You'll get a full induction into each new seat and work closely with a supervisor. Typical tasks will include:

• Managing your own matters
• Attending client and internal meetings
• Producing notes of meetings
• Undertaking legal research
• Proofreading documents
• Attending trials and hearings
• Participating in events and networking
• Building skills through pro bono work

One seat will be in a different country—most likely in London or another Middle East or APAC office. Trainees may also get the chance to do a client secondment. You'll get to experience living in a different country, gain valuable insight into the working practices of another jurisdiction and build professional contacts that will last throughout your career.

Wherever you go, we'll help you relocate, and you'll stay in regular contact with your HR contact during your international seat. You'll receive the same level of personal training and development, including a dedicated supervisor, a cost-of-living salary adjustment and free language lessons in certain countries.

We will provide you with all the support and professional development you need to become the best lawyer you can be. You'll have the chance to own your career progression, with comprehensive training and development programs and many opportunities to get specialist insight.

All trainees will also attend ongoing training and development sessions and events to make sure that they develop all the skills needed to be a successful lawyer at White & Case. This starts with a two-week induction in our London office. As well as our comprehensive legal training program, you can expect on-the-job learning, in-house courses, access to our award-winning coaching office and more.