Legal Counsel

One Development is a leading real estate development firm committed to delivering high-impact, design-forward, and community-centered projects. With a dynamic portfolio of transformative developments, we are shaping the future of urban environments across the region. We are seeking a highly skilled Legal Counsel to provide expert legal guidance and oversight across all aspects of our business. This is a critical role for an experienced legal professional with strong real estate knowledge and fluency in Arabic.

As Legal Counsel , you will be the primary legal advisor to the executive team, supporting complex real estate transactions, managing legal risk, and ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations. The ideal candidate will have experience working in-house with a real estate developer and possess excellent commercial judgment and negotiation skills.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide legal advice / strategic counsel across full lifecycle of real estate development projects.
• Oversee legal matters related to:

1. Land acquisition and due diligence
2. Planning permissions, zoning, and entitlements
3. Development and construction contracts
4. Debt and equity financing
5. Leasing, asset sales, and property management
6. Joint ventures, partnerships, and corporate structuring

• Draft, review, and negotiate a wide range of legal agreements and contracts.
• Manage and coordinate external legal counsel when needed.
• Monitor changes in relevant laws and regulations, ensuring ongoing compliance.
• Support the resolution of disputes, claims, and litigation.
• Advise on internal governance, compliance procedures, and risk mitigation.

Qualifications

• Qualified solicitor or barrister with a valid practicing certificate.
• 5 to 7 years of legal experience, including at least 3 years in-house at a real estate development firm.
• Fluency in Arabic is required.
• Strong understanding of real estate law, land use, construction, and finance.
• Proven ability to manage legal negotiations and complex documentation.
• Commercially minded with strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Able to work independently and thrive in a fast-paced environment.