Funds Associate – Abu Dhabi (2-3 YRS PQE)

Buchanan; Dubai; On-site; AED 420,000 - 660,000; Full time

Job summary

Buchanan invites applications for a Funds Associate (2–3 PQE) to join its newly established funds practice in Abu Dhabi. This rare ground-floor opportunity offers direct access to a top-tier partner and fast-track progression in a leading international firm.

You will work on cross-border structuring, formation, and regulatory matters, collaborating with senior lawyers on high-value international deals, and gaining exposure to global clients from a London-quality work standard.

Qualifications

• 2–3 years of PQE in funds with international/in elite firm.
• Strong funds technical expertise across funds work.
• Excellent English communication and client-facing confidence.
• Ideally qualified in London or Australia; track record on high-quality mandates.

Responsibilities

• Advising on a broad range of funds matters, including private equity, real estate, and infrastructure funds.
• Supporting cross-border clients on structuring, formation, and regulatory aspects.
• Working closely with partners on high-value, complex international deals.
• Engaging directly with clients across global financial hubs.

Skills

Funds experience

Cross-border

English fluency

Job description

Overview

An exceptional opportunity has arisen for a Funds Associate (2–3 years’ PQE) to join a leading international law firm in its Abu Dhabi office. This is a rare ground-floor opportunity to join a newly established but elite funds practice with direct access to a top-tier partner and a clear trajectory for career progression.

About the Role

The firm is expanding its renowned funds practice into the Middle East and is seeking a talented junior associate to join a small but growing team. The successful candidate will benefit from close collaboration with senior lawyers and partners, gaining unrivalled exposure to clients and transactions at an early stage in their career. This is an excellent chance to combine top-tier funds experience with a move to the Middle East, joining a small, collaborative team where responsibility and progression come faster than in traditional large-team structures.

What You’ll Do

• Advising on a broad range of funds matters, including private equity, real estate, and infrastructure funds.
• Supporting cross-border clients on structuring, formation, and regulatory aspects.
• Working closely with partners on high-value, complex international deals.
• Engaging directly with clients across global financial hubs.

About You

• 2–3 years’ post-qualification experience from a leading international, Magic Circle, or elite US firm.
• Strong technical expertise across a range of funds work.
• Fluent and polished English communication skills, with the confidence to liaise directly with sophisticated clients.
• Ideally trained and qualified in London or Australia, with a track record of working on high-quality mandates.

Why Apply?

• Join a new, high-performing team at its inception – shape its growth and culture.
• Exceptional partner exposure and mentorship.
• Access to London-quality work from a tax‑friendly, lifestyle‑enhanced Abu Dhabi base.
• Fast‑tracked progression opportunities unavailable in larger, more saturated markets.

The Process

• Two-stage interview process, typically involving two partners at each stage.

Ready to take the next step?

If you’re a high‑calibre funds lawyer looking for greater visibility, meaningful responsibility, and an enviable quality of life, this role represents one of the most exciting international opportunities available right now.