Who we work with Owners of established businesses across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain and Oman, from owner-run SMEs to mid-market companies, in sectors such as healthcare, education, food and beverage, retail, logistics, manufacturing and professional services. What changes when you sell in the UAE Mainland or free zone: a mainland company in Dubai transfers through the Department of Economy and Tourism and a notary. A free zone company, such as one in DMCC or JAFZA, transfers through its free zone authority, which has its own forms and approvals. Shares or assets: in a share sale the buyer takes over the company, including its history. In an asset sale the buyer picks what to buy and usually sets up a new licence. The right choice depends on liabilities, tax and leases. Staff and visas: employee visas sit under the company. A share sale keeps them in place. An asset sale needs new visas under the buyer. Tax: there is no personal income tax in the UAE. If the seller is a company, a gain on the sale can fall under UAE corporate tax. Get tax advice before you sign. Selling elsewhere in the GCC The process is the same in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain and Oman, but each country has its own commercial registration, foreign ownership and tax rules. In Saudi Arabia, for example, Saudi and GCC shareholders pay zakat while foreign shareholders pay corporate income tax, which changes how a deal is structured. We work with local legal and tax advisors in each market. Many of our buyers are regional groups expanding across the GCC, so a business in one country often sells to a buyer from another. Not sure what your business is worth? Try our free valuation calculator, or ask for a confidential valuation from an advisor.
