Most Powerful Women Leaders to Watch Out in 2026
Company: RÖDL (Dubai Branch)
Designation: German-Qualified Lawyer (Specializing in International, Tax & Corporate Law)
Country: United Arab Emirates
Katharina Jung represents a new generation of internationally oriented legal leaders whose careers are shaped by intellectual rigor, public policy insight, and cross-border expertise. As a German-qualified lawyer based in Dubai, she specializes in international law, tax law, and corporate law, advising globally active businesses with a clear focus on long-term value, regulatory compliance, and sustainable international growth.
Her legal foundation was established through the study of German and European law at a German university, which she completed with the degree of Dipl. Iur. (First State Examination). Parallel to this, she deepened her academic orientation through the study of international law. She subsequently completed her legal preparatory service for the federal state of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania in Germany, passed the Second State Examination, and was admitted to the German Bar. Further strengthening her international and business law specialization, she earned a Master of Laws (LL.M.), reinforcing her ability to navigate complex cross-border legal frameworks.
During her professional formation in Germany, Katharina was also politically engaged. She worked for the German Government at the German Bundestag, participating in legislative procedures and parliamentary petition proceedings. Through this experience, she gained first-hand insight into democratic decision-making processes and the practical interplay between law, economic policy, and societal development. Her involvement in legislative and reform discussions sharpened her understanding of how closely legal systems, business environments, and social structures are interconnected, an understanding that continues to inform her advisory approach today.
She currently works with RÖDL, a large integrated consulting and auditing firm with more than 100 offices worldwide, providing legal, tax, management, IT consulting, and audit services. Rödl’s interdisciplinary structure allows her to operate within a global advisory network that supports internationally active companies in their cross-border activities. Within this framework, she combines legal precision with entrepreneurial thinking. Strategic expansion of international mandates, sustainable business development, and the establishment of strong international networks are central to her professional focus.
Building an international advisory practice in a new market required resilience, patience, and the confidence to step into unfamiliar territory. Establishing credibility among international companies and investors demanded consistent excellence and unwavering adherence to regulatory standards. In a competitive and constantly evolving environment, she remained steady, prioritizing long-term partnerships over short-term advantages. This approach has enabled her to cultivate trust-based relationships grounded in reliability and integrity.
Alongside her advisory work, Katharina is actively engaged in professional dialogue. She regularly delivers lectures on legal and tax topics and publishes specialist articles in professional journals. Her areas of focus include cross-border corporate structures, international tax matters, market entry strategies in the Middle East, and legal developments within the German-Emirati context. Through these contributions, she not only advises businesses but also helps shape conversations surrounding international legal cooperation and regulatory evolution.
Equally important to her is social responsibility. She supports initiatives promoting education and equal opportunities, as well as professional networks that strengthen women in the legal and business sectors. Encouraging young talent, particularly female lawyers with an international outlook, is a cause close to her heart. She believes that professional competence, clear values, and continuous development form the foundation for sustainable success across borders and systems.
On a personal level, she values balance and ongoing growth. Reading, regular exercise, and yoga provide stability in a demanding professional environment. Travel and intercultural exchange broaden her perspective and deepen her understanding of global dynamics, qualities that are reflected in her international advisory work.
Her nomination as one of the “Most Powerful Women Leaders to Watch in 2026” represents recognition of her international journey and her commitment to modern legal leadership defined by expertise, integrity, and intercultural understanding. For young professionals and aspiring female leaders, her message is clear: do not wait for perfect conditions. Take responsibility early, remain curious, and shape your own path with determination and confidence.