Commercial in Abu Dhabi
Commercial activity in Abu Dhabi runs through two frameworks. Onshore, commercial contracts, agency arrangements and trading are governed by UAE federal law, including the Commercial Transactions Law and the Commercial Agencies Law, with disputes heard by the Abu Dhabi courts. Within ADGM, parties can contract under English common law and resolve disputes before the ADGM Courts, which many international counterparties prefer.
The Commercial Agencies Law deserves particular attention. A registered agency can give a local agent strong protections, including exclusivity and compensation on termination, so how a distribution or agency arrangement is drafted, and whether it is registered, materially changes each side's position. We structure supply, distribution, franchise and agency agreements to reflect the client's leverage and the realities of enforcement in the emirate.
What we do
- Commercial contracts and supply agreements
- Commercial agency and distribution
- Franchising
- Cross-border trade and sales
- Terms of business and consumer protection
Frequently asked
Does my distributor become a protected commercial agent in Abu Dhabi?
If the arrangement is registered under the Commercial Agencies Law, the agent gains significant protections, including exclusivity and possible compensation on termination. Whether to register, and how to draft around it, is a key decision we advise on before signing.
Can I contract under English law in Abu Dhabi?
Yes. Within ADGM you can contract under English common law and use the ADGM Courts. Onshore contracts are generally governed by UAE law. The right choice depends on the counterparty and how you expect to enforce.
Which courts resolve commercial disputes?
Onshore commercial disputes go to the Abu Dhabi courts under UAE law; ADGM matters go to the ADGM Courts under common law. Arbitration before arbitrateAD is also common for commercial contracts.
Commercial in other emirates