How to Transfer Your UAE Free Zone Company to a New Owner 2026
Transferring ownership of a UAE free zone company involves a share transfer process. Here is the complete 2026 guide.
In this guide:
Reasons for Ownership Transfer
- Selling the company: Outright sale to a buyer
- Bringing in partners: Adding new shareholder (FZE to FZCO conversion)
- Family succession: Transferring to family member
- Corporate restructuring: Moving ownership to a holding company
Share Transfer Process (General)
- Step 1: Agree terms: Price, timing, and any conditions of transfer
- Step 2: Prepare Share Transfer Agreement (STA) — notarized document
- Step 3: Current shareholder signs STA; new shareholder signs
- Step 4: Submit to free zone with both parties KYC documents
- Step 5: Pay amendment fee (AED 1,000-5,000)
- Step 6: Receive updated MOA, share certificate, and trade licence (if name changes)
Share Transfer — Key Documents Required
- Share Transfer Agreement: Signed by transferor and transferee
- Board resolution: Approving the transfer (if multi-shareholder company)
- New shareholder KYC: Passport, photo, proof of address
- No objection letter: From free zone confirming no outstanding dues
Due Diligence Before Buying a UAE Free Zone Company
- Outstanding fees: Check all free zone fees are paid; no pending penalties
- VAT status: Is the company VAT-registered? Outstanding VAT returns?
- CT status: Corporate Tax registration and return status
- Bank account: Check company bank account has no frozen status or negative balance
- Visa obligations: Check employee/dependant visas are in order