Are You a Startup Looking for Funding? A Guide to Equity, SAFEs, and Convertible Notes
Startups in the UAE have several options when raising early-stage capital, from priced equity rounds to convertible notes and SAFEs. Each instrument carries unique legal and commercial implications, and choosing the right structure can significantly impact investor confidence, founder control, and long-term growth. This guide breaks down the key differences and the legal frameworks founders must understand before raising their first round.
Successful IP Enforcement: Protecting a Leading E-Commerce Brand Against Multiple Infringements Across the UAE
In one of the year’s most significant intellectual property enforcement efforts, M&CO Legal’s Dispute Resolution Team successfully represented a regional e-commerce leader in three coordinated IP infringement cases before UAE courts — achieving favorable, final, and binding outcomes that fully restored the client’s brand exclusivity.
A Landmark with Consequences: The CJT’s Latest Decision and Its Implications for Enforcement within the DIFC
On 2 September 2025, the Conflicts of Jurisdiction Tribunal (CJT) issued a landmark decision in Serene Resources DMCC v Energen DMCC, holding that the DIFC Courts lacked jurisdiction to enforce a Dubai-seated SIAC award while set aside proceedings were ongoing in the Dubai Courts. The ruling underscores the primacy of the Dubai Courts as the “holder of general jurisdiction” and signals a shift in the enforcement framework within the DIFC, with significant implications for award creditors seeking to rely on the DIFC as a conduit jurisdiction.
Voluntary Liquidation of LLCs in the UAE: Treatment of Insufficient Assets and Shareholder Liability
This article examines what happens when a UAE limited liability company (LLC) undergoing voluntary liquidation is found to have insufficient assets to cover its debts. It explores the legal framework under the UAE Companies Law and Bankruptcy Law, discusses the liquidator’s duties, and clarifies the extent of shareholder and director liability, supported by Ministry of Justice opinions and recent Dubai Court of Cassation rulings.
“Exceptional Urgency” Under Expedited Proceedings – Considerations for a Successful Application
This article explores the concept of ‘exceptional urgency’ under DIAC Rules 2022, offering practical guidance and examples from leading arbitral institutions to help secure expedited proceedings.
Voluntary Liquidation of Solvent LLCs in the UAE: A Shareholder’s Guide
Voluntary liquidation allows shareholders of a solvent LLC in the UAE to close operations in an orderly manner. This guide outlines the legal framework, procedural requirements, and key steps shareholders must follow to ensure compliance with the UAE Companies Law.
Form Cannot Trump Substance: UAE Committee Unifies Judicial Principle on Arbitrators’ Signatures
The UAE Supreme Federal Court has clarified that arbitral awards are valid with a signature on the final page alone. This landmark decision unifies judicial principles, prioritizes substance over form, and strengthens confidence in arbitration across the UAE.
Beyond Borders: How the UAE Rejected a European Country’s Extradition Request in a High-Stakes Legal Battle
In a landmark decision, the UAE courts refused a European state’s extradition request, emphasizing the importance of territorial jurisdiction, evidentiary sufficiency, and strategic defence in complex international legal matters.
A Quick Overview of the Effect of MOHRE Complaints on Subsequent Labour Cases in the UAE
This article provides a focused analysis of how MOHRE complaints impact labour disputes in the UAE, particularly in unlawful termination claims. It examines the legal thresholds, procedural deadlines, and court interpretations under Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021.
Using Artwork as Collateral in the UAE: Legal Framework and Practical Challenges
The UAE is rapidly emerging as a global hub for art and culture, with significant investments in museums and creative industries. While artwork is not classified as a financial security under UAE law, it can be legally used as collateral for loans under the Federal Decree Law No. 4 of 2020 and registered through the Emirates Movable Collateral Registry (EMCR). Despite practical challenges such as valuation and authenticity risks, the evolving legal framework offers promising opportunities for leveraging art as a valuable asset class in the region’s growing creative economy.
