Mergers & Acquisition

Over the past two decades, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has emerged as a leading financial hub in the Middle East, attracting investors and companies from across the globe. In line with this evolution, the UAE has significantly strengthened its legal infrastructure governing corporate governance, capital markets, and investor protections. One of the most important...

In the lifecycle of any private company, particularly in the early and growth stages, investors eventually seek to realise returns on their investment. A well-drafted Shareholders’ Agreement (SHA) plays a critical role in facilitating this by setting out the terms under which investors can exit the company. From trade sales to IPOs and put options,...

When startups and investors come together to fuel innovation and growth, the shareholders’ agreement (“SHA”) becomes one of the most important legal documents governing their relationship. It is more than just a contractual formality, it is the framework that defines how a company is owned, managed, and funded, and how value is eventually distributed. Among...

When drafting a shareholders’ agreement, one clause that often sparks intense negotiation is the one dealing with share transfers. Founders want to maintain control, early investors want to secure their position, and incoming investors seek flexibility. This is where two important legal tools come into play i.e. the Right of First Refusal (“ROFR”) and the...

A shareholders’ agreement is a cornerstone document in any privately held company. Whether you’re a founder launching a startup, an early investor, or a minority stakeholder, this agreement lays the legal and commercial foundation of your relationship with the company and fellow shareholders. It governs decision-making, share ownership, dispute resolution, and exit scenarios, all essential...