Work Experience

I undertook a three-week placement within the Private Equity Department at the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA). Given my strong academic interest in law and my growing exposure to transactional work, the opportunity to gain first-hand experience within the private equity arm of one of the world’s largest sovereign wealth funds was both significant and intellectually compelling. I approached the placement with genuine curiosity and a clear determination to engage deeply with the work, particularly at the intersection of legal frameworks, investment analysis, and strategic decision-making.

Throughout the placement, I actively sought to develop a rigorous understanding of how institutional investors assess opportunities through both quantitative and qualitative lenses. I consistently engaged my supervisors with questions concerning ADIA’s investment approach, the feasibility of prospective deals, and the financial standards required to justify an acquisition within a large-scale sovereign portfolio. This included exploring how performance is assessed through key financial indicators such as KPIs, ROI, EBITDA margins, cash flow resilience, revenue trajectories, and the overall strength and sustainability reflected across financial statements.

A central aspect of my development during the placement was strengthening my financial literacy through practical exposure to investment analysis. With the guidance and support of my supervisors, I improved my ability to interpret financial data with precision and confidence, particularly through learning how to use Excel with the discipline expected within an institutional investment setting. I gained a clearer sense of how analysts translate numerical performance into meaningful conclusions, and how financial models contribute to investment decision-making at scale.

Towards the end of the placement, I was tasked with completing a final investment evaluation project assessing the potential acquisition of Alliance Laundry Systems. This required a structured assessment of the company’s fundamentals and commercial viability, including a detailed review of performance indicators beyond headline profitability. I evaluated core metrics such as margin sustainability, cash generation, revenue consistency, and longer-term feasibility, with the objective of determining whether the acquisition aligned with ADIA’s investment strategy and risk expectations.

In parallel to the financial focus of the placement, I deliberately pursued opportunities to deepen my understanding of the legal architecture underpinning private equity investments. Given my interest in transactional law, I regularly approached supervisors to request exposure to the documentation being used and reviewed by analysts and portfolio managers, including term sheets and related deal materials. This allowed me to appreciate how legal structures, contractual terms, and risk allocation mechanisms operate as essential components of private equity decision-making, and not merely as procedural formalities.

One of the most valuable perspectives I gained was observing the interaction between elite law firms and ADIA from the institutional client side. Having recently completed several vacation schemes at some of the biggest firms, this experience offered an important comparative lens and broadened my understanding of how private equity transactions are shaped by the expectations of sophisticated clients with global leverage, rigorous standards, and highly strategic priorities. It reinforced the extent to which effective legal advice must be commercially grounded, analytically robust, and aligned with client objectives in order to operate at the highest level.

Overall, the placement represented meaningful growth in a field where I had not previously had extensive direct exposure. It strengthened my analytical skill set, enhanced my commercial awareness, and deepened my interest in working at the intersection of law, finance, and institutional investment decision-making. The experience also confirmed the value of continuous learning through initiative, intellectual engagement, and the ability to ask precise questions that deepen both practical and strategic understanding.

I completed a two-week summer vacation scheme at A&O Shearman, during which I was placed within the Debt Capital Markets (DCM) team, with a particular focus on conventional bond and Islamic sukuk issuances. This placement provided a strong foundation in capital markets practice within the Middle East and offered direct exposure to the legal and commercial realities of advising sovereign and quasi-sovereign clients in high-value cross-border transactions.

Throughout the scheme, I worked alongside leading practitioners within the UAE sukuk market, including Bilal Ahmed and Anzal Mohammed, gaining first-hand insight into the technical demands and strategic importance of Islamic finance within the region. I was supervised closely by Hanif Osman, a highly experienced associate whose guidance allowed me to absorb the fundamentals of sukuk structuring, documentation, and execution, while also developing a clearer understanding of how legal teams operate under significant time pressure and regulatory scrutiny.

A defining highlight of my experience was being part of the team advising on Benin’s debut sovereign sukuk issuance, a landmark transaction that represented not only Benin’s first sukuk, but also a pioneering moment for sovereign Islamic finance in Africa. Being involved in a first-time sovereign issuance offered a rare perspective on the legal complexity and stakeholder coordination required to bring a new issuer to market, particularly where the transaction carries broader significance in terms of investor confidence, market credibility, and regional precedent. Contributing to workstreams linked to such a milestone strengthened my ability to remain detail-oriented and resilient, and reinforced the importance of perseverance when supporting groundbreaking issuances with heightened visibility and execution risk.

In addition to my core exposure within DCM, I was entrusted with a range of cross-departmental tasks across disputes, projects, and real estate, which strengthened my commercial awareness and broadened my understanding of how a full-service international law firm operates across multiple practice areas. I also participated in a group presentation exercise centred on a client panel renewal involving DP World, where I further developed my ability to communicate clearly, work collaboratively under time constraints, and present structured recommendations in a professional setting.

Overall, the scheme strengthened my interest in transactional work and reinforced my understanding of how legal strategy interacts with commercial priorities in capital markets. It also provided meaningful early exposure to market-leading sukuk expertise, while equipping me with a sharper appreciation of the standards required to support high-profile issuances and major institutional clients.

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.

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.

My internship at Al Tamimi deepened my understanding of dispute resolution and litigation. 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.