CMS
Info CheckedReal Estate Lawyers
DIFC, Dubai
About
CMS is one of the world's largest law firms by headcount, with over 5,000 lawyers across 80+ offices in 45 countries. The firm has been active in the Middle East since 2009, with its Dubai office based in the DIFC. Known formerly as Cameron McKenna Nabarro Olswang, CMS has built its global reputation on sector-leading real estate expertise — real estate is the firm's single largest practice area worldwide, giving their Dubai team access to unmatched international property knowledge and resources.
Real Estate Practice
CMS' Dubai real estate team advises on the full lifecycle of property transactions — from site acquisition and development through to asset management and disposal. Their expertise covers commercial and residential transactions, real estate finance, construction advisory, hotel and leisure sector transactions, and property fund structuring. The team is particularly strong in advising international investors unfamiliar with UAE property regulations, providing clear guidance on freehold ownership, DLD registration, and RERA compliance.
Notable Transactions
CMS has advised on significant UAE real estate transactions including acting for European institutional investors on the acquisition of Dubai commercial assets, advising hotel operators on management agreements for branded residences projects, and supporting regional developers on the structuring of residential community master plans. The firm's global real estate network has been instrumental in attracting international capital to the Dubai property market.
Awards & Rankings
Ranked as the number one real estate law firm globally by deal volume and recognised by Chambers and Partners for Real Estate in the Middle East. Legal 500 EMEA ranks CMS for Real Estate and Construction. The firm has won multiple "Real Estate Team of the Year" awards internationally and is consistently praised for the breadth and depth of its global property practice.
Services Offered
Key services CMS provides for real estate lawyers clients in Dubai:
Why Choose CMS
- Global network of 7,200+ lawyers across 90+ offices in 50+ countries, with offices in Dubai (DIFC) and Abu Dhabi.
- Dedicated real estate practice handling complex cross-border property portfolio sales and acquisitions across the region.
- Advises governments, developers, contractors, banks and financial institutions on real estate matters.
- Sector experience spanning logistics, retail, office, residential, hotels, infrastructure and renewable energy.
- Combined real estate, construction and finance capability under one firm.
How CMS Works
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1
Initial enquiry
Contact the Dubai office to outline your property or project matter and the parties involved.
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2
Scoping & engagement
The relevant real estate, construction or finance team scopes the work and sets out an engagement.
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3
Advice & documentation
Lawyers advise on the transaction or dispute and prepare or review the required documentation.
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4
Execution & completion
The team progresses the matter through completion, with cross-border coordination where relevant.
Business Profile
Hours and pricing may change — confirm directly with the business before engaging.
Licenses & Certifications
Licenses and certifications are subject to renewal. Verify current status with the issuing authority before engagement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a lawyer to buy property in Dubai?
A lawyer is not legally mandatory for every Dubai purchase, but legal advice is commonly used for higher-value, off-plan, corporate-held or cross-border transactions to review the sale and purchase agreement and manage risk. CMS advises on real estate sale and purchase and portfolio acquisitions.
What real estate services does CMS offer in the UAE?
CMS's UAE real estate team handles property sales and acquisitions, cross-border portfolio deals, leasing, development and construction projects, construction litigation, real estate joint ventures and real estate fund advisory.
Where is the CMS Dubai office located?
The Dubai office is at Level 15, Burj Daman, Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). CMS also has an office in Abu Dhabi.
Is CMS an international firm or a local UAE firm?
CMS is a major international law firm operating in the UAE as a registered legal consultancy, part of a global organisation of 7,200+ lawyers across 90+ offices in 50+ countries.
Does CMS handle construction and development disputes?
Yes. CMS advises on construction and development projects and handles construction litigation, acting for developers, contractors, sub-contractors and financiers.
Can CMS advise on real estate funds and joint ventures?
Yes. The firm provides real estate fund advisory and structures real estate joint ventures alongside its corporate, banking and finance teams.
How are legal fees handled?
Fees are quoted on request based on the nature and complexity of the matter. Contact the Dubai office to discuss your requirements.
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