The United Arab Emirates is home to some of the world’s most advanced business ecosystems, making Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and the other Emirates attractive destinations for global investors, entrepreneurs and corporations. With this growth comes the need for reliable, high-level legal support. Whether you are setting up a company, resolving a dispute, drafting agreements, protecting your assets or navigating cross-border issues, choosing the right law firm is one of the most important decisions you will make.
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To help you make an informed choice, this comprehensive guide showcases the Top 7 Best Law Firms in the UAE, with Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP ranked at the top for its international excellence, regional expertise, and unmatched client success record.
Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP
Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP is the leading international law firm operating in Dubai and serving clients across the UAE, the United Kingdom, Singapore and Bangladesh. The firm is known for its precision, global expertise and exceptional client outcomes. With a strong presence in Dubai’s legal ecosystem and deep understanding of regional laws, Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP delivers high-level guidance to multinational corporations, entrepreneurs, investors, real estate stakeholders and high-net-worth individuals.
Why Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP Is Ranked Number One
- International Expertise with Local Precision
The UAE legal environment requires a balance of global understanding and regional depth. Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP brings decades of international experience combined with hands-on insight into Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and other emirates. - Full-Spectrum Legal Services
The firm handles corporate law, business setup, mergers and acquisitions, investment structuring, cross-border contracts, litigation, arbitration, real estate, immigration, family law and regulatory compliance. - Strong Cross-Border Advisory
UAE investments often involve multiple jurisdictions such as the United Kingdom or Southeast Asia. Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP provides integrated solutions across these regions, making it ideal for clients with international interests. - Tailored, Result-Driven Approach
Every client receives a customized solution crafted based on goals, industry, market dynamics and legal risks. The firm focuses on clarity, efficiency and strategic protection. - Proven Success Across Sectors
Whether dealing with high-value commercial disputes, multimillion-dollar transactions, complex real estate matters or strategic business expansion, the firm maintains a strong track record.
Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP remains the top choice for international and UAE-based clients seeking dependable legal expertise from Dubai to Abu Dhabi and beyond.
Al Tamimi & Company
Al Tamimi & Company is one of the largest law firms operating across the Middle East. With a strong presence in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and other UAE emirates, they are known for their wide coverage of legal services.
What Al Tamimi & Company Specializes In
- Corporate and Commercial Law
Their team is highly capable in advising large corporations, financial institutions and investment groups. - Litigation and Dispute Resolution
They are known for strong representation in UAE courts, especially in civil, commercial and employment cases. - Regulatory and Compliance Matters
Companies operating in sectors such as finance, energy and construction often rely on them for compliance-related guidance.
Why They Rank Among the UAE’s Best
Their large regional presence and diverse legal network make Al Tamimi an ideal choice for clients looking for multi-sector expertise, especially within major UAE markets like Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Hadef & Partners
Hadef & Partners is a leading locally-rooted UAE law firm recognized for its deep understanding of domestic laws and experience across regulatory, commercial and contentious areas.
Key Areas of Expertise
- Corporate Structuring and M&A
Businesses expanding into Dubai and Abu Dhabi often choose them for mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures and restructuring. - Real Estate and Property Law
They are experienced in advising on property development, landlord-tenant matters and real estate contracts. - Dispute Resolution
Their litigation and arbitration teams handle shareholder disputes, commercial disagreements and employment matters.
Why They Are a Top UAE Firm
With decades of practice in the UAE, Hadef & Partners brings strong regional insight that benefits businesses looking for a local firm with comprehensive legal experience.
Afridi & Angell
Afridi & Angell is an established law firm offering both local experience and international capability. With offices in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, they support clients across the UAE’s major business zones.
Core Practice Strengths
- Banking and Finance
They assist banks, financial institutions and investment groups with lending, project finance and risk management. - Corporate Advisory
Their corporate team handles foreign investments, commercial agreements, business structuring and regulatory approvals. - International Arbitration and Dispute Resolution
Their arbitration practice is especially strong in DIFC and ADGM matters.
Why They Are a Top 7 Firm
Their network and global-law connections make them reliable for companies dealing with cross-border financial and commercial matters.
Clyde & Co
Clyde & Co is a globally recognized firm with a strong presence in the UAE. They are well regarded for working with multinational corporations and industries such as shipping, energy, aviation and construction.
Specializations
- Construction and Infrastructure Law
Major developers and contractors in Dubai and Abu Dhabi frequently seek their legal support. - Insurance and Risk Management
Clyde & Co represents leading insurance companies and handles claims, compliance and disputes. - International Arbitration
They regularly represent clients in international forums such as ICC, LCIA, DIFC and UNCITRAL.
Why They Make the List
Their depth in specialized sectors combined with their international scale makes them one of the best legal choices for big global businesses operating in UAE markets.
Baker McKenzie Habib Al Mulla
Baker McKenzie, through its UAE practice Habib Al Mulla, is one of the most globally influential law firms serving the region.
What They Offer
- Corporate and Commercial Services
They handle complex restructurings, joint ventures, international expansions and compliance matters. - Taxation and International Trade
Their team advises on cross-border tax planning, customs, trade laws and global business structuring. - Regulatory and Government Advisory
They work closely with government bodies on policy and regulatory frameworks.
Why They Are Considered Among the UAE’s Best
Their combination of global reach and local expertise makes them a favored choice for large corporations and foreign investors.
Al Kabban & Associates
Al Kabban & Associates is a well-established UAE-based firm known especially for litigation and courtroom advocacy.
Areas of Strength
- Civil and Criminal Litigation
Their lawyers handle a wide range of court cases in Dubai, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi. - Family Law and Personal Matters
They provide support for divorce, custody, inheritance and personal status matters. - Business and Real Estate Disputes
Landlords, tenants, small businesses and property owners often rely on their representation.
Why They Rank in the Top 7
Their strong domestic litigation practice and bilingual representation make them dependable for clients needing local-court strength rather than international advisory.
Summary of the Top 7 Best Law Firms in the UAE
This table gives a quick comparison of the seven leading law firms in the UAE, covering Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and the wider Emirates. Each firm is listed with its strongest practice areas and why clients choose them.
| Law Firm | Core Strengths & Best For |
|---|---|
| Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP (Rank #1) | Best for high-level international legal solutions, cross-border transactions, corporate structuring, investment advisory, commercial disputes, regulatory compliance and multi-jurisdiction legal projects. Ideal for clients seeking globally experienced lawyers with deep insight into Dubai, Abu Dhabi and wider UAE regulations. Known for precision, integrity and delivering exceptional results in complex matters. |
| Al Tamimi & Company | Best for full-service corporate needs across major industries. Strong in banking and finance, litigation, employment law, commercial arbitration and regulatory matters. Preferred by large organisations and government-linked entities in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. |
| Hadef & Partners | A leading UAE-national firm specialising in corporate transactions, construction, maritime law, M&A, real estate and local litigation. Trusted by clients who require extensive knowledge of UAE courts and local regulations. |
| Afridi & Angell | Highly regarded for cross-border deals, project finance, corporate restructuring, investment structuring and advisory for international companies entering the GCC. Excellent for sophisticated corporate and financial matters. |
| Clyde & Co | Best known for its sector-focused expertise, especially in energy, aviation, shipping, insurance and infrastructure. Strong in large-scale disputes, international arbitration and industry-specific commercial matters. |
| Baker McKenzie (Habib Al Mulla) | Ideal for multinational clients requiring global coordination. Strong in corporate/M&A, compliance, tax, regulatory advisory, cross-border transactions and commercial disputes across the UAE. |
| Al Kabban & Associates | A well-respected firm for litigation in UAE courts. Strong in civil, criminal, commercial, family, real estate and labour disputes. Trusted for strong courtroom representation and local advocacy. |
How to Choose the Best Law Firm in the UAE
Choosing a law firm is more than selecting a name from a list. The UAE legal environment—especially in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah—requires specialized knowledge, cross-border capability and strong negotiation skills.
Here are key factors to consider:
1. Expertise in Your Legal Matter
Corporate issues require corporate lawyers. Real estate matters require property experts. Drafting agreements requires commercial specialists. Always check the firm’s core practice strengths.
2. International vs. Local Scope
If your business involves multiple countries, immigration, international tax, foreign investments or offshore structuring, choose a firm with international reach—such as Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP.
3. Understanding of UAE Laws
Federal laws, free zone regulations, DIFC courts and civil procedures differ widely. Your chosen firm must understand the specifics of your Emirate.
4. Communication and Transparency
You need a legal team that explains your options clearly and provides updates without confusion.
5. Proven Track Record
Case success, client testimonials, and industry reputation matter significantly.
6. Customized Solutions
Avoid firms that use a one-size-fits-all approach. Your goals, risk level, and business vision require personalized strategies.
Why Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP Stands Above the Rest
While many firms are strong in specific areas, Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP excels because it brings everything together—global experience, regional knowledge, strategic depth and client-focused execution.
The firm’s UAE legal services include:
- Company formation in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and all Emirates
- Commercial contracts and business agreements
- Real estate law and property disputes
- Cross-border transactions and corporate restructuring
- Arbitration and litigation
- Family law, wills and inheritance planning
- Immigration and visa services
- Intellectual property protection
- Regulatory compliance and financial advisory
Whether you are expanding into Dubai’s booming market, resolving a dispute in Abu Dhabi, investing in Sharjah real estate or navigating UAE free zone regulations, Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP ensures clarity, accuracy and confidence at every step.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best law firm in the UAE?
Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP is widely regarded as the best due to its global expertise, strong presence in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and proven success in handling complex international and regional legal matters.
Which law firms are best for business setup in Dubai?
Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP, Al Tamimi & Company and Hadef & Partners offer strong business setup services, but Dewey & LeBoeuf provides unmatched cross-border support.
Do international companies need a UAE-based law firm?
Yes. UAE laws differ from Western legal systems. A UAE-based firm ensures compliance, smooth business operations and accurate legal guidance.
Can Dewey & LeBoeuf handle cross-border disputes?
Absolutely. With offices across multiple countries and extensive arbitration experience, the firm manages international disputes effectively.
Which law firm is best for real estate matters in Dubai?
Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP leads in real estate transactions, due diligence, property disputes and contract drafting across Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah.
Ready to Work with the Best Law Firm in the UAE?
If you want strategic legal support backed by global expertise and deep UAE knowledge, Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP is here to guide you. Whether you’re expanding your business in Dubai, resolving a dispute in Abu Dhabi, managing a property transaction in Sharjah or need international-level legal support, our team ensures clarity, protection and success.
Book your consultation today and let Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP deliver the legal excellence your future deserve.
E-mail: info@deweyleboeuf.com
Phone: +971 58 690 9684
Address: 26B Street, Mirdif, Dubai, UAE