The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has long positioned itself as a leading hub for international business, attracting global investors with its strategic location, tax incentives, and business-friendly environment. Central to this success are the UAE’s free zones, which offer unique regulatory and commercial advantages for companies seeking regional and international reach. Recent reforms in free zone legislation, governance, and operational frameworks have further enhanced the a

Family-owned businesses form the backbone of the United Arab Emirates’ economic landscape. From long standing trading houses to diversified conglomerates and rapidly expanding family enterprises, these businesses play a significant role in national growth and regional competitiveness. As many family companies enter phases of generational transition, adopt more sophisticated governance structures, or seek external investment, protecting shareholder rights has become a priority

As the United Arab Emirates (UAE) accelerates its digital economy initiatives, businesses across sectors are increasingly engaging in digital transformation projects. From cloud migration and enterprise software implementation to artificial intelligence, blockchain, and cybersecurity upgrades, these initiatives are reshaping the operational landscape. While the adoption of advanced technologies offers substantial commercial benefits, it also raises significant legal considera

Artificial intelligence is becoming a key driver of the UAE’s digital economy, powering predictive healthcare, autonomous finance, smart city services, and digital government. Yet, because AI relies on vast amounts of data - including personal information - it raises an important question: how can the UAE promote innovation while safeguarding fundamental rights and maintaining public trust?

The evolving nature of work in the digital era has prompted significant changes in labour legislation worldwide, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is no exception. As part of its ongoing efforts to modernise its employment landscape and attract global talent, the UAE has introduced a series of labour law reforms designed to accommodate remote and gig workers. These developments reflect the country’s commitment to flexibility, innovation, and inclusivity in its workforce, ali

In an era defined by rapid digital transformation and economic diversification, intellectual property (IP) protection has become a cornerstone of sustainable growth in the United Arab Emirates. As the nation continues to position itself as a global hub for innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship, protecting creative assets, inventions, and brand identities has become increasingly important. In 2025, the UAE will witness a new wave of IP reforms, enforcement mechanisms, a

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has established itself as a leading hub for entrepreneurship in the Middle East, attracting both local and international investors. Venture capital represents a vital source of funding for startups, enabling rapid growth, product development, and market expansion. However, structuring venture capital transactions in the UAE requires careful consideration of legal and regulatory factors to ensure compliance and protect both founders and investors

Private credit is quietly changing the face of finance in the UAE. Once viewed as a niche investment product, it’s now a powerful alternative to traditional bank lending, helping growing businesses unlock the capital they need while giving investors a chance to earn attractive, risk-adjusted returns. Behind every transaction, however, lies something even more valuable than money, data. Financial statements, ownership structures, credit histories, and even the personal details

Corporate governance in the United Arab Emirates is undergoing a subtle yet transformative shift. While often overshadowed by regulatory...

In the UAE’s dynamic business landscape, equity incentives have emerged as a critical tool for attracting, motivating, and retaining top...

The emergence of Web3 technologies, including blockchain, cryptocurrencies, decentralised finance (DeFi), and non-fungible tokens (NFTs),...

The UAE has firmly established itself as more than just a regional hub; it is a global gateway for trade, investment, and innovation. For...

In the high-pressure world of legal practice, time is one of the most valuable resources. Yet internal meetings, which are intended to...

The United Arab Emirates continues to evolve as a destination of choice for expatriates, offering a secure, globally connected...

In a fast-evolving global economy, business restructuring has become more than a tactical exercise. It is now a strategic imperative for...

In a rapidly changing global economy, corporate governance has emerged as more than a regulatory requirement. It is now widely recognised...

At its core, Emiratisation is about aligning economic growth with social equity. The initiative seeks to reduce the country’s historical reliance on expatriate labour while equipping Emirati nationals with the tools, skills, and platforms they need to thrive in a rapidly evolving global economy.

We outline key considerations and best practices for drafting and negotiating term sheets and letters of intent (LOIs), with a particular focus on deal execution in the Middle East.

When a company is established, it typically issues "ordinary shares" to the initial shareholders. However, when seeking new investors,...