United Arab Emirates: Shareholders

Anthony Saad and Bharat Rajani examine the UAE Commercial Companies Law amendments introduced by Federal Decree-Law No. 20 of 2025, exploring reforms that enhance corporate flexibility, investor protection, and business structuring opportunities. The amendments introduce developments such as multiple share classes, statutory drag-along and tag-along rights, redomiciliation between mainland and free zone jurisdictions, and the recognition of non-profit companies.

A foreign branch can be converted into an LLC in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, but it is not a simple amendment. The process involves re-registering the business as a separate legal entity, transferring contracts, employees and licences, and restructuring ownership. This shift allows businesses to ring-fence liability, improve operational flexibility and align with long-term expansion plans.

The stability of a commercial enterprise in the Middle East rests upon the alignment of its internal stakeholders. When this alignment fractures, a shareholder dispute in the UAE typically manifests as a legal...

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has introduced a new package of reforms to its corporate legislative framework through Federal Decree-Law No. 20 of 2025 (Amendment)...

Federal Decree Law no 20 of 2025 ("CCL Amendment Law") has recently been promulgated which makes several significant changes to the Federal Decree Law no 32 of 2021 on Commercial Companies (the "CCL").

The UAE has enacted Federal Decree-Law No. 20 of 2025 amending Federal Decree-Law No. 32 of 2021 on the Commercial Companies Law (CCL).

In today's rapidly evolving economic landscape, businesses are navigating challenging shifts in the operating environment. From geopolitical tensions and the resultant supply chain disruptions to technological advancement...

Dubai remains one of the most attractive hubs for business setup, thanks to its zero corporate tax policies, strategic geographic location, and simplified residency visa processes. In 2024, global entrepreneurs.

Family businesses hold a substantial position in the UAE's economy, representing approximately 90% of all enterprises nationwide. These entities are significant drivers of economic growth, innovation, and job creation. However, as they expand and adapt, family