Family Business
Safeguard your inheritance. Shape the future of your family business
Register your family business with the Ministry of Economy
Why register?
A family business is not just a commercial entity — it is an identity, a family unit, and legacy of wealth that spans generations.
Registering in the registry for family businesses at the Ministry of Economy enables families to safeguard their enterprises, organise ownership, and ensure continuity of management across generations within a recognised legal framework.
Legal Recognition and Asset Protection
Registration grants the company the legal status of a ‘Family Business’, allowing for the consolidation of shares within a common register, preventing their fragmentation due to inheritance or random sales.
Why? Without this regulation, shares could be distributed among heirs (such as cousins or in-laws), leading to a loss of control or forced sale of assets. Under the law, families can impose legal restrictions on the transfer of shares outside of the family.
Practical Benefits
-
01
Legal basis for the protection of family property
-
02
Regulation of restrictions on the sale or transfer of shares
-
03
Possibility of establishing dedicated legal entities (such as family holding companies)
Continuity of Operations and Clarity of Succession
Registered Family Businesses can adopt succession plans and governance structures documented in the Articles of Association and an optional Family Charter, all of which are legally recognized and enforceable. These frameworks provide clarity in leadership succession and help prevent conflicts.
Why is this important? Upon the passing of the founder or during generational succession, conflicts may arise over control or leadership. Registration provides binding legal tools that clarify succession through the Family Charter or Articles of Association.
Practical Benefits
-
01
Avoidance of family disputes
-
02
Smooth and structured transfer of leadership
-
03
Reduced litigation risk and external interference
Confidentiality with Effective Governance
Registration does not require disclosure of commercial or financial information. Meanwhile it allows families to formally register internal structures such as Family Councils, Family Offices, or Investment Committees, which are enforceable if a dispute arises — all while maintaining confidentiality.
Practical Benefits
-
01
Legal enforceability within a confidential framework
-
02
Clear dispute resolution mechanisms
-
03
Harmonious integration of Sharia principles, family values, and modern governance
Institutional Credibility and Future Readiness
Registration sends a clear message to banks, investors, and strategic partners that the Family Business operates under a structured and sustainable institutional framework.
Why is this important?
For families seeking expansion or partnerships, registration strengthens market reputation, trust, and long-term viability.
Practical Benefits
-
01
Enhanced access to financing
-
02
Greater negotiation power
-
03
Stronger appeal to investors and M&A partners
What Are the Risks of Not Registering?
Family Disputes
Conflicts over ownership or leadership
Wealth Fragmentation
Unnecessary division or forced sale of assets
Legal Weakness
Informal family arrangements lacking legal standing
Lack of Institutional Credibility
Reduced confidence among financiers and prospect partners
Who should register?
Family Businesses
operating in the United Arab Emirates
whether fully owned by family members or majority-owned by members of a single family, as defined by Ministerial resolution
Founders
Founders planning for the sustainable future of your Family Business and its generational transfer Professional Advisors
Professional advisors
Legal, financial, and strategic consultants assisting Family Businesses in alignment with the Decree by Law
For inquiries
Please contact via email:
familybusiness@economy.gov.ae
Ministry of Economy - Family Business Support Team
