A business sale begins with identifying what the buyer is actually acquiring. The agreement may cover equipment, stock, business identifiers or other rights and obligations. We review the proposed transaction, the parties and existing records to identify a suitable instrument, while keeping notarisation separate from licensing, registry and third-party requirements.
Define the subject of the sale
A trading name or street address alone does not adequately describe the transaction. Identify the components included in the agreed sale and anything excluded. A schedule of equipment, inventory and documents to be handed over may help. This also brings out differences in expectations, particularly where equipment is leased or owned by someone else.
Business assets, company shares and premises
Buying the assets of a business is different from acquiring shares in the company that operates it. Occupation of the premises also depends on the relevant lease arrangements and recipient requirements. Do not assume that a document headed business sale completes all these steps. Explain the intended outcome so the documents can be assessed against the actual transaction.
Price, handover and existing obligations
Set out the amount, currency, payment arrangements and handover details, distinguishing completed payments from future commitments. Identify debts, advance payments, supplier arrangements or employment matters requiring separate review. A statement that the full price has been received or that no obligations remain should accurately reflect the facts being acknowledged and the arrangement understood by the parties.
Information for the initial review
Start with the type of business, the intended sale and your role. Detailed supporting records can follow through the designated channel; customer databases and complete account information should not be included in a general enquiry.
- Seller and buyer details, signatories and evidence of their authority.
- Trade licence, registration information and relevant corporate documents.
- A clear list of included and excluded assets or rights.
- Any draft agreement, price details and handover arrangements.
- Relevant recipient requirements and premises-related approvals, where applicable.
From review to the completed instrument
The review establishes the transaction type, the parties’ capacity and the basis on which representatives can sign. Missing information and drafting issues are identified before the document, charges and signing arrangements are confirmed. The appropriate procedure is assessed according to the transaction and its requirements. Retain the instrument and schedules, and complete any required licence, register or rights-related steps with the competent bodies.
Timing and cost considerations
The asset mix, connected agreements, signatories, translation and outstanding approvals affect the estimate. Ask for a breakdown distinguishing professional work and notarisation charges from registry changes or other services. Completion of the instrument does not itself establish that every licence, contract or obligation has transferred, or replace a review of relevant third-party rights.
Frequently asked questions
Can the contract simply say all business assets?
Identify significant items and exclusions and connect the schedules to the agreement. General wording can leave uncertainty about equipment, inventory or rights that one party did not intend to transfer.
Does the lease transfer automatically?
The premises documents and the requirements of the relevant parties or authority need review. Do not assume notarising a sale agreement completes a separate lease amendment or transfer procedure.
Is this the right service for selling company shares?
If the transaction concerns shares, begin with the share sale or assignment service. Identifying the actual subject of the disposal helps establish the correct file from the start.
Sources
- Dubai Law No. 4 of 2013 concerning Notaries Public
- Dubai Courts Resolution No. 137 of 2022 and notarial rules
- Ministry of Economy and Tourism — Laws and legislation
- Invest in Dubai — Amend a trade licence
Discuss the next step for your request
Explain what is included and identify the licensing authority.
