Program Overview

Introduction to the International Commercial Law (Dubai) LLM Program

The International Commercial Law (Dubai) LLM program is designed to equip students with expertise in international commercial law, enabling them to advise on law and policy in international business operations. This program is ideal for those seeking to work in the commercial world and tackle global challenges.

Program Overview

The program is offered by the University of Birmingham Dubai and is accredited by the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research. It is a modular program consisting of six taught modules and a 60-credit dissertation. The program can be completed in one year (full-time) or two years (part-time).

Course Structure

The full-time program runs from September to September, while the part-time program can start in either September or January. Part-time students will study for two years, completing their modules in term four and working on their dissertation project during the summer.

Term 1

Term 1 runs from September to December (10 teaching weeks) and includes two hours of seminar time per module per week, with an emphasis on guided independent learning. Students begin planning and submit a proposal for their dissertation during term one.

Term 2 and 3

Terms 2 and 3 follow a similar structure, with students taking three modules per term in the first two terms. Part-time students study three modules in each year, with flexible options for module completion.

Module Information

The program includes compulsory and optional modules. Compulsory modules include:

• Dissertation on a Legal Topic (60 credits)
• English and International Sales Law (20 credits)
• Global Trade Law and Policy (20 credits)
• Introduction to Legal Research (20 credits)

Optional modules (subject to availability) include:

• Banking Law (20 credits)
• Carriage of Goods (20 credits)
• Company Law and Policy (20 credits)
• Cybercrime (20 credits)
• Intellectual Property Law (20 credits)
• International Commercial Conflict of Laws (20 credits)
• International Commercial Dispute Resolution (20 credits)
• International Construction Law (20 credits)
• International Mergers & Acquisitions (20 credits)
• International Oil and Gas Law (20 credits)
• Sustainable Energy and the Environment (20 credits)
• Transnational Financial Crime Law (20 credits)

Teaching Staff

The program is led by Dr. Mohd Hwaidi, Associate Professor in Law at the University of Birmingham (Dubai) and Director of the LLM at the Dubai campus.

Entry Requirements

To secure a place on the program, applicants must meet the general entry requirements and specific criteria for the course. This includes:

• A 2:1 Honours degree in Law (or international equivalent)
• Relevant equivalent study or professional experience can also be considered for entry
• English language requirements (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE or alternative qualifications)

Fees and Scholarships

The annual tuition fee for the program varies depending on the start date and mode of study:

• AED 61,981 (part-time, January 2026)
• AED 133,738 (full-time, September 2026)
• AED 66,869 (part-time, September 2026)

Scholarships are available for students with the potential to thrive at the University of Birmingham Dubai.

Career Opportunities

The program is designed to enhance employability, with graduates moving on to diverse careers in top law schools and law firms. The University's Careers Network Dubai provides support to help students achieve their career goals, including guest lectures, summer schools, and networking opportunities with legal firms.

Student Experience

The University of Birmingham Dubai offers a state-of-the-art campus, student accommodation, and a range of activities and events to enhance the student experience. Students can expect a welcoming and sociable environment, with opportunities to develop new skills and make friends for life.