Corporate & Commercial
UAE subsidiaries, holding structures in the DIFC or ADGM, and joint ventures for Singapore groups.
Corporate & Commercial lawyers in the UAEInternational clients · Singapore
Supporting Singapore clients with legal matters in the UAE
This page is for Singapore companies, funds and founders building or investing in businesses in the UAE. Rahman & Company advises on UAE legal matters. Singapore clients typically ask us about choosing a UAE structure, technology and logistics contracts, joint ventures, and how disputes would be resolved between Singapore and UAE parties. We work with Singapore-based in-house teams and outside counsel on the UAE aspects of a project, by video call or in person in the UAE.
Singapore and the UAE
Singapore and the UAE play similar roles in their regions: both are trading, logistics and financial hubs with business-friendly free zones and common-law financial centres. Singapore companies in logistics, technology, financial services and infrastructure often use Dubai or Abu Dhabi as their base for the Middle East and Africa. Many Singapore–UAE contracts choose arbitration in Singapore or the UAE, and the familiarity of the DIFC and ADGM common-law frameworks can make those jurisdictions attractive for holding and financing structures.
UAE legal services
How we assist clients from Singapore
All practice areasTechnology & Data
Technology, platform and data protection terms for Singapore tech businesses serving UAE clients.
Technology & Data lawyers in the UAEArbitration
Choice of seat and rules for Singapore–UAE contracts, and enforcement of SIAC and other awards against UAE assets.
Arbitration lawyers in the UAETypical matters
Common UAE legal matters for clients from Singapore
Choosing between ADGM and a Dubai free zone
A Singapore-based fund manager is considering a UAE platform. We compare the practical differences between establishing in ADGM, DIFC or another free zone for the intended activities, and coordinate with regulatory specialists on any licensing requirements.
A logistics joint venture
A Singapore logistics group plans a warehousing joint venture with a UAE partner. We draft a joint venture agreement covering capital, management, deadlock and exit, and review the lease and operating contracts for the facility.
A SIAC award against a UAE party
A Singapore company has won a SIAC arbitration against a UAE customer. We advise on recognition in the UAE under the New York Convention and on locating and targeting assets.
These examples describe the kinds of questions clients raise. They are not case studies, and every matter depends on its own facts.
Working together
Working with Rahman & Company from Singapore
- 01
Initial discussion
Tell us who you are, who else is involved and what you want to achieve. A short call or video meeting is usually enough to understand the matter and agree whether we can help.
- 02
Identifying the UAE legal issues
We identify which questions are governed by UAE law, which emirate, free zone or court is relevant, and where advice under the law of Singapore may also be needed.
- 03
Document review and strategy
Once the scope and fees are agreed, we review the contracts, licences, title documents or correspondence and set out the options and the likely next steps.
- 04
Remote consultation where appropriate
Most discussions can take place by video call and email. Where a UAE step requires a signature, registration or attendance, we explain whether a power of attorney can be used and how it should be prepared.
- 05
Ongoing support and coordination
We keep you informed in writing, deal with UAE counterparties and authorities on your behalf where instructed, and coordinate with your advisers in Singapore.
Singapore is four hours ahead of the UAE. Clients may be able to engage the firm remotely where this is legally and practically appropriate. Every engagement is subject to conflict, identity and compliance checks, and no particular outcome can be promised.
Where to find us
Our UAE offices
All officesHead office
Dubai
115, Al Moosa Building 5Al Ghubaiba
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi
42 Tawi Umm Al'atal StreetAl Wathba, Al Nahdah Jadeedah
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Meetings at any office are by appointment. Rahman & Company does not have an office in Singapore unless one is listed here.
Our lawyers
People who can help
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Egypt · UAE · GCC · Europe
Moideen Rahman Kutty
International Corporate Law, Arbitration & Cross-Border Disputes
Languages: Arabic, English
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Egypt · KSA · UAE
Amaan Sabir Beegum
Corporate, Investment, Banking & Cross-Border Legal Advice
Languages: Arabic (native), English (fluent), French (good), German (good)
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Bahrain · Egypt · GCC
Dr. Nusrath Beegum
Commercial Law, Technology Regulation & Legal Academia
Languages: Arabic (native), English
View profileProfiles describe each lawyer’s background as published on this website. Languages are listed as stated in their profiles.
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Insights for international clients
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Questions
Frequently asked questions
Are the DIFC and ADGM similar to Singapore’s legal system?
Both apply common-law principles and have English-language courts, which many Singapore businesses find familiar. They are separate jurisdictions within the UAE with their own rules.
Can a Singapore arbitral award be enforced in the UAE?
Both countries are parties to the New York Convention, so recognition is generally available subject to its conditions and UAE procedural requirements.
Can a Singapore company hold a UAE subsidiary through a DIFC or ADGM holding company?
It can, and some groups choose a financial-centre holding company for its common-law framework. Whether that adds value depends on the group’s activities, financing plans and the regulatory status of the holding vehicle.
Can you advise on Singapore law?
Rahman & Company advises on UAE legal matters. Where advice on Singapore law is required, separate advice from appropriately qualified counsel in Singapore may be necessary.
Can we work remotely?
Yes. With a four-hour time difference, UAE mornings overlap with Singapore afternoons.
Discuss your UAE legal requirements
If you are based in Singapore or connected with it and need advice concerning a business, investment, property, dispute or other legal matter in the UAE, our team can help you understand the relevant legal considerations and next steps. Please do not send confidential documents until an engagement has been agreed.