Legal Counsel, Islamic Banking

First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB); Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) seeks a Legal Counsel specializing in Islamic Banking to manage legal risks across its operations. The ideal candidate will collaborate closely with senior legal staff, provide comprehensive legal support, and ensure compliance with local regulations. This full-time position requires professional legal expertise, particularly in drafting Islamic banking agreements, and fluency in both English and Arabic.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years’ experience in a reputed bank or law firm.
• Excellent English and Arabic language skills.

Responsibilities

• Provides legal advice aligned with FAB's business objectives.
• Drafts, reviews, and negotiates contracts and legal documents.
• Manages litigation or disputes involving the business.

Skills

Legal advice

Stakeholder management

Negotiation

Knowledge of banking laws

Contracts drafting

Education

Master’s degree in law

Job description

Join to apply for the Legal Counsel, Islamic Banking role at First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB).

Company Description

Now it’s your time to join the #1 bank in the Middle East and one of the most prestigious financial companies in the region. Shaking up the world of banking requires a lot of smarts and skill. We’re looking for the brightest and best to help us reach our goals and we’ll also help you reach yours. Your success is our success as you grow stronger in your career. Join us and leave a legacy of your own, as a pioneer in both the company and the industry.

Job Description

The role holder assists the Head of Legal and the Senior Legal Counsel for Global Corporate Finance & Islamic Banking to manage legal risk in all the geographies where FAB operates, in relation to the relevant business activities, in accordance with FAB Group legal policies and procedures. The role requires the ability to work independently, seeking guidance from the Head of Legal – Global Corporate Finance & Islamic Banking and the Senior Legal Counsel on complex or unusual matters that could pose significant legal, financial, or reputational risks to the FAB Group.

Core Responsibilities

• Provides legal advice and support to the business, aligning with FAB’s strategic and business objectives.
• Collaborates with the Head of Legal and Senior Legal Counsel to establish, disseminate, and implement FAB Group legal policies.
• Completes legal tasks and projects promptly and responds to legal queries from the Head of Legal or Senior Legal Counsel.
• Supports FAB subsidiaries and international branches by providing legal oversight on risks related to business products and services.
• Assists with managing litigation or disputes involving the business domestically and internationally.
• Represents FAB before Notaries Public, courts, court experts, and law enforcement agencies to resolve legal matters effectively.
• Reports on litigation matters and provides updates to relevant stakeholders.

Legal Documentation and Review

• Drafts, reviews, and negotiates contracts and legal documents to maximize legal protections and minimize risks.
• Prepares and updates standardized legal agreements, contracts, and terms in line with international best practices and legal requirements.
• Assists in reviewing and updating standard terms and conditions used by the business, recommending policy improvements as needed.

Knowledge of External Environment

• Keeps abreast of emerging legal and regulatory trends through continuous education, conferences, and professional associations.
• Provides updates on new legislation or regulations impacting the business.

Knowledge Sharing

• Develops positive relationships with legal colleagues and shares best practices and legal knowledge.

Stakeholder Management

• Liaises with external authorities such as courts and law firms to resolve legal issues effectively.

MIS and Reporting

• Prepares required reports accurately and timely, adhering to FAB policies and standards.

Specific Accountability

• Drafts, reviews, and negotiates Islamic banking agreements and contracts, including syndicated loans, project finance, and other finance transactions.
• Works with external counsel on Islamic finance transactions.
• Supports the development and rollout of new Islamic products and services.
• Prepares legal documents in English and Arabic related to consumer and business banking.
• Provides legal support for customer requests to amend documentation and manages disputes and customer complaints.
• Recommends policy and process improvements for efficiency.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in law preferred.
• Excellent English and Arabic language skills.
• Minimum of 3 years’ experience in a reputed bank or law firm.

Additional Details

Employment type: Full-time

Job function: Legal

Seniority level: Not Applicable

Location: Abu Dhabi, UAE