Work Experience

After completing several internships and legal experiences within the UAE, I knew that the next step in my personal and professional growth would require stepping out of my comfort zone. Experiencing Latham & Watkins’ Dubai office reaffirmed my admiration for the firm’s culture and global reach. However, I wanted to challenge myself further by working in a new jurisdiction with a markedly different legal, cultural, and commercial environment. That is what led me to pursue the opportunity to join Latham & Watkins’ London office—one of the most dynamic financial and legal centres in the world.

The recruitment process was rigorous and highly competitive, reflective of the calibre of the firm. With over 3,000 applicants and only 60 selected, the process involved meticulous screening, assessments, and interviews. Securing a place on the vacation scheme in London felt not only like an achievement but the beginning of a new chapter in my legal journey—one that would test my adaptability, deepen my legal insight, and broaden my perspective beyond the region I was accustomed to.

The scheme commenced with an introductory session that set the tone for a fast-paced and intellectually stimulating experience. My first seat was in the Employment team, an area of law I had not previously considered specialising in. Despite my limited background in employment law, I was quickly immersed in practical work. I engaged with matters related to TUPE transfers, post-termination restrictive covenants, and drafted legal memoranda addressing complex employment issues. One of my key assignments involved analysing the enforceability of restrictive covenants—an exercise that not only tested my legal reasoning but also gave me direct feedback from my supervisor, enabling my development.

My second seat was in Structured Finance, with a particular focus on securitisation. This was by far one of the most intellectually enriching parts of the scheme. Though niche and technically demanding, my supervisor went out of her way to explain key concepts and involve me directly in the firm’s largest ongoing securitisation transaction. I contributed to drafting specific sections of the prospectus and conducted research on covenants within facility agreements. These tasks exposed me to the technical depth and transactional nature of high-level finance work in a global context.

Beyond the legal work, the firm provided over ten presentations across various practice areas, offering invaluable insight into Latham’s multi-disciplinary strengths and expectations for future trainees. A series of social events further enriched the experience, providing space for informal conversations with associates, partners, and fellow vacation schemers—building relationships that added both personal and professional value.

What made this experience truly unforgettable, however, was the context in which it took place. It marked my first professional experience in London—an entirely new legal and cultural landscape that came with its own challenges and learning curves. Adapting to this environment taught me the importance of resilience, initiative, and embracing the unfamiliar, all of which have strengthened my resolve to pursue an international legal career.

Following the scheme, I am committed to securing a training contract. My next step in this journey is a summer vacation scheme at A&O Shearman in Dubai, which I hope will build on the momentum I’ve gained and further refine my career direction.

I had the privilege of gaining invaluable work experience at one of the world’s leading law firms, Latham & Watkins, specifically within the Corporate department at their Dubai office. During my time there, I worked directly on several high-profile venture capital and acquisition matters, including a Seed Funding transaction, as well as Series A and Series C funding rounds. Under the guidance of two senior associates, I was entrusted with drafting essential corporate documents, such as the Articles of Association and Shareholders' Agreements for the Series A and Series C transactions. Additionally, I contributed to a due diligence report for the Seed Funding transaction and prepared disclosure letters across all three matters. I also had the opportunity to handle smaller, yet equally insightful, tasks such as drafting a SMART Note for one of the firm’s clients, which helped refine my drafting and analytical skills.

Latham & Watkins’ structured internship program offered a comprehensive overview of various departments and legal disciplines. I particularly appreciated a session on Capital Markets, where I gained a solid understanding of the importance of the Prospectus in capital market transactions, especially in the context of Equity Capital Markets and IPOs. My curiosity led me to inquire about Debt Capital Markets, where I engaged with a senior associate who shared her previous experience in the field, broadening my knowledge of this intricate area.

Proactively seeking to expand my learning, I approached a senior associate in Latham & Watkins’ Finance department to gain deeper insights into corporate restructuring and Islamic finance. This discussion provided a foundational understanding of key restructuring processes and Islamic finance structures such as Murabaha and Ijara, further fuelling my interest in these sectors.

One of the standout qualities of Latham & Watkins is its commitment to supporting emerging businesses and the venture capital sector. I was impressed by the significant fee reductions the firm offers to start-ups, reflecting its dedication to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in the region. It was inspiring to witness a firm of such global stature demonstrating a commitment to making its world-class legal services accessible to smaller enterprises.

I completed my Summer Vacation Scheme at Dentons Abu Dhabi, where I gained comprehensive experience across two distinct departments: Banking and Corporate. This opportunity allowed me to explore different facets of commercial law and deepen my understanding of how legal expertise is applied in complex financial and corporate matters.

During my first seat in the Banking department, I worked closely with an associate who specialized in project finance, an area I had not previously encountered in-depth. I was fortunate to join the team at a pivotal moment, as they were handling the closing stages of a significant project in Abu Dhabi. The associate provided me with detailed briefings on the nature of project finance, offering valuable insights into the documents and processes involved. Dentons was representing the sponsor, primarily securing equity bridge loans for the project company, and I was entrusted with ensuring the accuracy and organization of a wide range of financial documents. These included the Common Terms Agreement, Process Agent Letters, and Officer Certificates. My role required meticulous attention to detail, as any inconsistencies could have critical consequences at this late stage of the project.

Additionally, I was responsible for assisting with translations, an experience that enhanced my understanding of the legal precision required in cross-border transactions where language differences can impact contractual clarity. A notable task I had to carry out during my time in the Banking department was being given the opportunity to draft a promissory note for one of Dentons’ clients. This not only expanded my practical legal drafting experience but also gave me first-hand insight into how complex financial arrangements are formalised in a legally binding manner.

In my second seat within the Corporate department, I worked under the mentorship of a senior associate who provided me with a broad overview of corporate legal work. My responsibilities included drafting essential corporate documents, such as board resolutions and powers of attorney, particularly those authorizing share transfers. These tasks required a deep understanding of corporate governance and the legal framework within which companies operate, as well as an awareness of the business context in which these documents are used. I was encouraged to stay up to date with UAE federal company law and tax regulations, which ensured that my work was compliant with the latest legal standards and aligned with local legal practices.

One of the most valuable aspects of my experience in the Corporate department was the exposure to real-world applications of corporate law. By working on live matters, I gained a clear understanding of the regulatory environment in the UAE and how companies must navigate these regulations to remain compliant. I learned the importance of precision, not only in drafting but also in understanding the broader legal and commercial implications of the documents I was working on. Additionally, I was able to observe how senior lawyers at Dentons interact with clients, providing tailored legal solutions that balance legal risks with business goals.

Interning at Al Tamimi Law Firm, the largest and most dynamic law firm in the Middle East, has been a transformative experience that deepened my understanding of dispute resolution and legal practice. During my time at the firm, I actively supported lawyers in various aspects of dispute resolution, including drafting, extensive research, and attending court hearings.

The internship not only provided me with practical legal experience but also honed my skills in observation, questioning, and problem-solving. Witnessing the dynamic relationship between barristers and solicitors was particularly enlightening. It allowed me to appreciate the distinct roles each plays within the legal framework, emphasizing the crucial collaboration between these two pillars of the legal profession.

As I delved into the intricacies of the legal field, I recognized my inclination towards the role of barristers. Their focus on mastering the law, requiring a comprehensive understanding of legal intricacies, aligns closely with my detail-oriented and reliable nature. I discovered that barristers bear the responsibility of knowing every facet of the law, a quality that resonated with my personal approach to challenges.

Beyond the professional growth, I cultivated valuable connections with the legal professionals at Al Tamimi Law Firm. Forming strong relationships with the partner I worked under and several associates in the litigating team not only enriched my experience but also provided me with insights into the collaborative and supportive culture within the firm.

The exposure to the workings of a reputable and respected law firm has been nothing short of amazing. It has amped my eagerness to further expand my legal knowledge and experience, and I am genuinely looking forward to the prospect of continuing this journey. The internship at Al Tamimi Law Firm has not only been a stepping stone in my legal career but also a source of inspiration and motivation for the exciting challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

The latter half of my summer in 2020 marked a significant chapter as I embarked on a unique and enriching journey to help write a book. The invitation came from my uncle, Mr. Abdulrahim AlFahim, who asked if I would be willing to contribute by typing, correcting grammatical errors, and helping articulate his ideas and experiences. What initially began as a task to refine language evolved into a profound collaboration that spanned from August 2020 to the Summer of 2022.

The focus of the book is on navigating and succeeding in the contemporary and competitive business landscape. Abdulrahim AlFahim employs a diverse range of methods to illustrate and explain the pathways to success. Drawing from his own rich experiences and insights, the book weaves a narrative that incorporates the stories of the greatest innovators throughout history. This includes compelling narratives of individuals like Rattan Tata and Aristotle Onassis, emphasizing rags-to-riches tales that inspire and instruct.

The opportunity to contribute to this book with Mr. Abdulrahim AlFahim is one I cherish immensely. Throughout the months dedicated to this project, I felt as though I absorbed not just the content of the book but also the wealth of experiences and lessons that he generously shared. The collaborative effort allowed me to glean insights into both what to do and what to avoid in various business situations. Each chapter is a repository of specific lessons, with titles such as "Honesty and Credibility" reflecting the importance of trust in attracting consumers and customers.

Even after the active writing phase, the impact of the book continues to resonate with me. The knowledge and wisdom contained within its pages serve as an ongoing source of learning, reinforcing my understanding of business dynamics. I am hopeful that this narrative, shaped by Mr. Abdulrahim AlFahim's wealth of experiences, will reach audiences worldwide, imparting valuable insights on how to succeed in business. The opportunity to witness and contribute to the creation of this book has been a transformative experience, and I anticipate that its narrative will continue to inspire and educate for years to come.