Lawyers in Dubai

When you need a lawyer in Dubai

Dubai attracts Russian-speaking entrepreneurs and investors, and a lawyer (legal consultant / advocate) is needed in four situations: buying property (off-plan and secondary market), company registration and disputes, Golden Visa and residency, and family or employment matters.

Typical rates: consultant — AED 800–2,000 (~€200–500/hr); transaction and company registration support available as fixed-fee packages. General questions are answered free of charge, and a specialist will personally review your case.

What matters specifically for Russian speakers from the CIS

The UAE is one of the few jurisdictions where Russian speakers can realistically open an account and do business right now, so there are some nuances:

• Origin of funds. UAE banks also ask about the source of funds, but are more accommodating toward Russian money when the history is transparent — a lawyer can help you prepare the documentation package.
• How to move money. USDT and transfers via third countries are popular; international transfer services are a working route. Many people from the CIS open a Dubai company specifically to gain access to banking.
• CIS documents. To apply for a visa or complete transactions, documents from Russia/Belarus/Ukraine must be legalized (apostille, MOFA attestation if required) and translated — remotely.
• Residency visa through a company or property — a way to establish legal status when there are difficulties with a foreign passport.

Real estate: RERA, Ejari, Oqood

Key points on buying:

• transactions are regulated by RERA (under the DLD — Dubai Land Department); rentals are registered through Ejari;
• off-plan properties are registered through Oqood, and payments go into the developer’s escrow account — this protects the buyer;
• DLD registration fee — 4% of the purchase price, plus additional charges;
• a lawyer reviews the developer, the SPA agreement, delivery timelines, and penalty clauses.

Real estate from AED 2 million qualifies you for a 10-year Golden Visa.

Company, residency and Golden Visa

• free zone (0% if qualifying) vs mainland — the choice depends on your activity and target market;
• a residence visa is obtained through a company or property;
• Golden Visa (10 years) — for investors, professionals, and entrepreneurs;
• DIFC / ADGM — financial free zones operating under common law with their own courts for commercial disputes.

How much it costs and how to choose

• consultant’s hourly rate — AED 800–2,000;
• verify the licence (advocates are licensed by the Dubai Legal Affairs Department);
• for business, engage a specialist in DIFC/ADGM or mainland structures depending on your setup;
• a Russian-speaking lawyer will save you from costly misunderstandings in paperwork.

Need a lawyer in Dubai? Describe your situation — general questions are answered free of charge, and a specialist will personally review your case.