MergersandAcquisitionsinUAE

It depends on the sector and structure. Transactions involving listed entities fall under the Securities and Commodities Authority, some free zone entities need free zone authority consent, and deals affecting market competition may require clearance under UAE competition law. Foreign investment rules can also apply. Whether approval is needed for your deal turns on the target's licence type, ownership and sector.

M&A advisory is quoted after reviewing the transaction, since fees depend on the size of the deal, the depth of due diligence required and the regulatory approvals involved. We provide a proposal once we understand the target entity, the structure proposed and the jurisdictions involved.

Timelines vary widely depending on due diligence findings, the number of regulatory approvals needed and whether foreign direct investment or competition law clearances apply. Straightforward acquisitions of a single free zone entity move faster than mergers involving listed companies or cross border structures, which can take several months.

Due diligence is the review of a target company's financial records, contracts, licences and liabilities before a merger or acquisition proceeds. It confirms the figures presented match reality, uncovers hidden debts or disputes, and gives the buyer grounds to renegotiate price or walk away if serious issues emerge.

Typical requirements include audited financial statements, trade licences, shareholder and board resolutions, material contracts, employee records, existing loan or lease agreements, and details of any pending litigation. Free zone entities may also need to provide their qualifying income analysis. The exact list depends on the sector and deal structure.

It can. Transactions that reduce competition in a relevant market may fall under UAE competition law and require notification or clearance before completion. Whether this applies depends on the market share of the parties involved and the sector, so it should be checked as part of early deal structuring rather than left until closing.