Position Summary
The Senior Director, Legal Counsel – Development Middle East & Africa provides strategic and transactional legal support to Marriott International’s development activities across the MEA region. Based in Dubai and reporting to the Vice President & Senior Legal Counsel – Development MEA, this role supports owned, leased, franchised and managed hotel, residential, and mixed‑use projects, delivering commercially focused legal advice aligned with Marriott’s business objective
Scope
Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Language Requirements: English (Arabic and/or French advantageous)
Role Type: Individual Contributor
Travel: Regional travel required
Hybrid Model: 4 days in the office
Key Responsibilities
Structure, draft, negotiate and execute franchise and management agreements, residential licensing and management agreements, guaranties, lender agreements (including comfort letters and SNDAs), and related development documentation.
Advise on existing franchise and management agreement matters, including pre‑opening issues, restructurings, hotel sales, financings, amendments, conversions, and terminations.
Lead legal due diligence, supervise outside counsel, and manage legal budgets for development projects.
Partner closely with development, operations, franchising, and asset management teams to support transactions from initial structuring through closing and post‑closing matters.
Provide guidance on confidentiality agreements, letters of intent, transaction structuring, trade area restrictions, and related risk considerations.
Ensure compliance with franchise regulatory requirements, including franchise disclosure obligations, relationship laws, antitrust, agency, and other applicable regulations.
Navigate complex cross‑border legal environments, coordinating employment, tax, privacy, compliance, insurance, and IP considerations across jurisdictions.
Candidate Profile
Experience
Strong academic background and qualification as a lawyer with a common law foundation.
Minimum of 4 years’ experience in a top‑tier law firm or comparable in‑house corporate environment.
Active bar membership (US) or valid practicing certificate (UK or other jurisdiction), as applicable.
Proven experience advising on complex real estate and hospitality development transactions, including mixed‑use developments, financings, acquisitions, and dispositions.
Skills & Competencies
Excellent contract drafting and negotiation skills in English.
Strong commercial judgment with the ability to deliver practical, business‑aligned legal solutions.
Ability to manage multiple complex matters concurrently in a fast‑paced, deadline‑driven environment.
Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and strategic thinking.
High level of autonomy, accountability, and initiative.
Exceptional interpersonal and stakeholder‑management skills, with the ability to work effectively across cultures and seniority levels.
Commitment to the highest ethical standards and integrity.
Willingness and flexibility to travel as required.
Why Join Marriott International?
At Marriott International, you’ll help shape landmark development projects across one of the world’s most dynamic regions. You’ll work alongside a globally respected legal team, partner closely with senior business leaders, and contribute to iconic brands that define hospitality worldwide.
Bring your talent expertise to the world stage. Apply today and make your mark with Marriott International.
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At Marriott International, we are dedicated to being an equal opportunity employer, welcoming all and providing access to opportunity. We actively foster an environment where the unique backgrounds of our associates are valued and celebrated. Our greatest strength lies in the rich blend of culture, talent, and experiences of our associates. We are committed to non-discrimination on any protected basis, including disability, veteran status, or other basis protected by applicable law.
Marriott International is the world’s largest hotel company, with more brands, more hotels and more opportunities for associates to grow and succeed. Be where you can do your best work, begin your purpose, belong to an amazing global team, and become the best version of you.