🇦🇪 The UAE’s Legal Industry is Transforming—Are You Keeping Up?

Dubai’s legal sector is no longer just an emerging market—it’s a global powerhouse. Firms that once saw the region as a satellite office are now investing in long-term, strategic growth. But with rapid transformation comes the challenge of keeping up.

In this next episode of the Legally Speaking Podcast ™️ sponsored by Clio - Cloud-Based Legal Technology – Dubai Miniseries, I chatted with Sahar Farooqi, Barrister & Transformation Officer at Harneys, to explore the fundamental shifts reshaping law in the UAE and what legal professionals need to do to stay ahead.

Why is the UAE Now a Legal Powerhouse?

✔️ A shift in strategy – Global law firms are no longer just setting up shop in Dubai; they’re making it a core part of their business model.

✔️ AI & legal tech are unavoidable – The industry has moved beyond experimentation. Firms must now invest in AI, automation, and blockchain or risk falling behind.

✔️ A legal market driven by global talent – The UAE is attracting the best minds from around the world, making it one of the most competitive and dynamic legal environments.

✔️ Diversity, inclusion, and leadership matter more than ever – To lead in this market, law firms must foster diverse teams, rethink workplace culture, and adapt to evolving professional expectations.

Key Takeaways from Sahar:

♦️ The legal sector can no longer afford to be stagnant – “The strategy that worked in 2010, or even pre-COVID, is no longer relevant today. The market, the mindset, and the expectations have changed.”

♦️ AI is not just a tool—it’s an industry disruptor – “Firms are moving past ‘comfort levels’ with AI. They’re realising that this is the future of legal work, whether they’re ready for it or not.”

♦️ Progress and tradition must be balanced – “The UAE’s unique position as a bridge between cultures means it has to balance rapid modernisation with deep-rooted traditions, which makes its legal transformation particularly fascinating.”

♦️ The firms that will thrive are the ones that lead the change – “Competitive tension plays a role in driving transformation. All it takes is one market leader to fully embrace innovation, and the rest will follow.”

What’s Next for the UAE’s Legal Sector?

The UAE is setting new global benchmarks in legal innovation, diversity, and leadership. For legal professionals, the question is simple: Are you adapting fast enough?

🔗 Listen & watch to the full episode now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts!

Spotify: open.spotify.com/episode/2jK6IoqSu7XbXVR48qHIHo?si=w_KPHhS_R7Sc3CaogvLZNw

Apple: podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/legally-speaking-podcast/id1485892170?i=1000700034709