Dubai grows as global legal hub with more international law firms in early 2026
Dubai recorded strong growth in international legal consultancy firms during the first three months of 2026, showing the city’s rising position as a global center for business and legal services.
A report by the Government of Dubai Legal Affairs Department said the number of licensed international legal consultancy firms in Dubai reached 86 by the end of March 2026. This was up 2.3 percent from the end of 2025. The department also said it achieved a 100 percent sustainability rate in registration and licensing work during the first quarter.
The report showed that 89 new legal consultants were registered in the first quarter of the year. This pushed the total number of practicing legal consultants in Dubai to 3,433. These experts now work across 139 licensed legal consultancy firms in the emirate.
International firms now make up 61.8 percent of all licensed legal consultancy firms in Dubai. This shows that Dubai continues to attract legal experts from around the world and build a strong professional services sector.
The report added that legal consultants in Dubai come from 91 different nationalities. This wide mix of people and legal knowledge reflects Dubai’s growing role as an international business city where many legal systems and skills come together.
Dr. Lowai Mohamed Belhoul, Director-General of the Government of Dubai Legal Affairs Department, said the steady growth of the legal sector reflects the vision of Dubai’s leadership. He said this important service sector continues to develop in line with Dubai’s long-term plans.
He explained that the increase in international firms matches Dubai’s fast-moving investment climate, where businesses need many types of legal support for deals and work that cross borders. He also said this variety helps make Dubai’s investment environment stronger by giving businesses access to specialized legal services that match the city’s global status.
The department said it remains focused on creating the right support system for the sector through flexible policies, updated laws, easier procedures and more digital services. These steps are aimed at boosting competitiveness and strengthening Dubai’s image as a leading global model for legal excellence.
