Business Law and Corporate Law

ADGM’s 2026 commercial law changes introduce new requirements for nominee arrangements, foreign company branches, beneficial ownership records and certain cash transactions. Businesses should review their ownership information and compliance procedures to determine which changes apply to them.

Dubai Multi Commodities Centre has introduced new Foundations Regulations, creating a separate legal entity structure for private wealth holders and family offices. The framework enables long-term asset holding, succession planning and wealth preservation, with flexible governance arrangements and reserved powers for founders starting from USD 100 in initial assets.

In September 2026, the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre Authority (“DMCCA”) introduced its new Foundations Regulations, adding another private wealth and succession planning structure to the UAE landscape.

Recent amendments to UAE Commercial Companies Law introduce significant flexibility for businesses operating in the Emirates. From company registration transfers and limited liability company share classes to shareholder exit rights and management continuity provisions, these updates reshape how companies structure ownership, protect investors, and plan for succession.

There has been a noticeable uptick in sophisticated scam arrangements targeting corporates in the energy, infrastructure and broader commercial sectors, particularly in relation to purported financing...

On 1 October 2025, the United Arab Emirates government issued Federal Decree Law No. 25/2025 promulgating the new UAE Civil Transactions Law (the "New Civil Code").

Guidance on shareholder disputes UAE. Review company records, minority rights, resolutions, manager liability, deadlines, arbitration clauses, and exit options.

A corporate lawyer for shareholder dispute uae reviews governance, resolutions, liability, meeting rights, exit terms, valuation, and coordination with litigation.

Choosing between an SPV, holding company and foundation in the UAE depends on what you need the structure to achieve. An SPV can isolate specific assets, a holding company can bring businesses under common ownership, while a foundation can support long-term family wealth and succession planning.

As the UAE strengthens its position as a leading international financial hub, boards of DIFC and ADGM entities face mounting pressure to demonstrate sound decision-making and robust governance. Regulators increasingly expect clear evidence that governance arrangements work effectively in practice, not just on paper. With enhanced scrutiny on oversight, compliance, and risk management, boards must show how decisions are reached, risks are assessed, and actions are followed through.

Directors and managers in the UAE may face personal liability for fraud, abuse of authority, conflicts of interest, and breaches of legal duties. Understanding when corporate protection ends and personal responsibility begins is essential for anyone managing a company in the Emirates.

Shareholder activism is evolving across the UAE, bringing new dynamics to corporate governance and investor relations. This comprehensive analysis examines the legal framework that shapes how activist shareholders can engage with companies, from requisitioning meetings to launching campaigns. Understanding these mechanisms is essential for both companies preparing defensive strategies and investors seeking to exercise their rights under UAE commercial law.