What regulatory approvals are required for a cross-border merger in the UAE, and how long do they typically take?

To provide an accurate legal assessment of the regulatory approvals required for a cross-border merger in the UAE, we need additional essential information. The required approvals and timelines differ significantly depending on several key factors.

Before giving a final answer, we must first clarify the following:

1. Information about the Foreign Partner

• What is the nationality of the foreign partner?
  Certain nationalities may trigger enhanced regulatory checks.
• Is the foreign partner an individual or a legal entity?
  The process differs depending on the type of investor.
• If it is a company:
  
  • What is its legal form?
  • In which country is it registered?
  • Is it regulated (financial, insurance, telecom, etc.)?

2. Structure of the Transaction

• Is it a merger, acquisition, share transfer, or asset transfer?
• What ownership percentage will the foreign partner acquire?
  (Below 25%, above 50%, or acquiring control)
• Will there be a change of control? This directly impacts approvals.

3. Information about the UAE Company

• Which legal framework applies?
  
  • UAE Mainland Companies Law
  • Or a Free Zone (DIFC, ADGM, DMCC, JAFZA, etc.)
• What is the legal form of the UAE company?
  (LLC, FZCO, FZE, PJSC, branch, etc.)
• What is the company’s licensed activity?
  
  • Is it a regulated sector (finance, telecom, insurance, healthcare, etc.)?

4. Additional Information Needed

• The company’s annual turnover in the UAE, to determine if the deal triggers UAE merger control filing.
• Whether the UAE company has any pending violations, disputes, or regulatory issues that may affect approvals.

Conclusion

A correct and reliable answer cannot be provided without these basic details, because each scenario triggers different regulators, requirements, and timelines.

Once you provide the above information, I can give you a clear and precise summary of:

• Required authorities and approvals
• Expected timelines
• Filing obligations
• The fastest legal structure for completing the transaction.

Dear Sir/Madam,

To advise you on the process and requirements, we propose an initial meeting either at our office or online.