Early Careers

2026 Furas Programme - June

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Overview

Discover how a global law firm helps clients achieve their goals wherever they do business. At DLA Piper, our pursuit of innovation has transformed the delivery of legal services. With offices in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific, we deliver exceptional outcomes on cross-border projects, critical transactions and high-stakes disputes.

For our people, that means a world of opportunity. See the impact we make in the UAE and around the world and explore the intersection of law and business. By joining our Furas programme in Dubai you'll start to build the foundation of a global legal career, collaborating with colleagues and clients on high-value matters that shape industries. Give your career the best platform and discover if law is a career you can thrive in.

Your time with us

Over an initial six-month placement in our Dubai office, you will gain real-world experience, develop future-ready skills, and contribute to work that matters.

Choose your pathway

Furas Graduate - Legal

Work within one of our practice groups, support client matters, and begin building a professional network across the UAE’s legal landscape.

Furas Graduate – Business Services

Join a collaborative business services function, such as HR, Marketing and Business Development, Legal Project Management, Finance, or Knowledge developing practical expertise aligned to your strengths and ambitions.

During the programme, you will:

  • Work on projects across sectors shaping the UAE’s economy and global partnerships.
  • Collaborate within diverse, high-performing teams connected to an international network.
  • Develop technical, professional, and leadership capabilities through structured learning.
  • Receive guidance from your supervisor, buddy, and mentors who support your growth.
  • Engage with innovation, sustainability, and community initiatives aligned with national priorities.
  • Build a lifelong professional network within an Early Careers community.
  • Thrive in an environment that prioritises wellbeing, balance, and sustainable performance.

You’ll have the freedom to discover your own path and make an impact beyond the borders of traditional law. Tomorrow’s legal industry can’t hire yesterday’s skills.

Come and show us your strengths in action, and following your time with us you may be offered a position on our international training programme.

Work with us to unlock your potential and start your journey to building a different kind of legal career.

Eligibility

You will need to be a strong proficiency in speaking, reading and writing as our work is typically in both English and Arabic, depending upon the area of focus.

You will also:

    1. Be a UAE National holding a Family Book and;
    2. Be a recent graduate or career changer.

What we look for

We’re looking for UAE Nationals who have the potential to thrive at our firm.

To succeed on our early careers' programmes, you don’t need any specific legal experience or education, but, in addition to the eligibility criteria, you will:

  • have a dedicated interest in international law and business.
  • have curiosity and entrepreneurial mindset and will be excited about doing things differently in the legal industry.
  • be self-motivated by a strong desire to achieve your personal and professional goals.
  • enjoy collaborating with others and will be instinctively socially aware.
  • have a growth mindset so you see setbacks as learning opportunities, and you’ll proactively look for ways to grow and develop.
  • enjoy working in an ever-changing environment; and
  • enjoy taking ownership of tasks and thinking critically.

About Us

At DLA Piper, we understand that inclusion is not a one-size-fits-all concept. We embrace and celebrate the range of perspectives, backgrounds and experiences that each individual brings to our firm. By fostering a culture that welcomes and appreciates all aspects of our individuality, we ensure that everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

Our commitment to inclusion and positive social impact enables us to provide exceptional service to our clients and communities, while nurturing a unique and inclusive culture for all our people. We welcome the unique contribution that you will bring to our firm and actively encourage applications from all talented people – however your talent is packaged, whatever your background or circumstance and regardless of how you identify.

We are committed to being accessible and accommodating any reasonable adjustments needed throughout the recruitment process to ensure an inclusive experience for all. If you need any support or adjustments, please let us know.Where local legislation permits, we will conduct relevant pre-engagement screening checks prior to your first day.

Apply now

Requesting Adjustments

At DLA Piper, we aim to make meaningful progress and build an inclusive culture where anyone affected by disability, neurodiversity or a long-term health condition has an equitable and accessible chance of success. If you think you may need adjustments or additional support to enable you to participate in our recruitment process, please contact our Recruitment team and we will be happy to support you.

Agile Working

We recognise that people have responsibilities and interests outside of their career and that as a business, we all benefit from working flexibly. That’s why we are open to discussing with candidates the different ways in which we are able to support requests for agile working arrangements.

Pre-Engagement Screening

In the event that we make an offer to you, and where local legislation permits, we will conduct pre-engagement screening checks that may include but are not limited to your professional and academic qualifications, your eligibility to work in the relevant jurisdiction, any criminal records, your financial stability, and references from previous employers. 

Our hiring approach

Our hiring approach enables us to learn about the professional and person you are, and gives you the opportunity to learn about us. Your recruitment experience can differ depending on the type of role you are interviewing for. You will always meet your direct Line Manager for your role, as well as peers and close collaborators for the position. For some of our roles we may also use assessment tools, practical exercises, and panel presentations. Your Recruitment Business Partner will inform you of the recruitment process at the start of any recruitment process, but please let us know if you have any questions prior to making an application.

Our hiring approach
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