Family businesses can register under the Law by entering into a family ownership contract, which is a written agreement among the family members who own the majority of the shares or assets of the family business. The family ownership contract should include:
- The identification of the family members who are parties to the contract and their respective shares or assets.
- The objectives, vision and mission of the family business.
- The governance structure and rules of the family business, such as the board of directors, management team, committees, etc.
- The succession plan and procedures for transferring shares or assets among family members or to third parties.
- The dispute resolution mechanisms for resolving any conflicts among family members or with third parties.
The family ownership contract should be registered with the competent authority in each emirate where the family business operates. The registration fees and procedures may vary depending on the emirate.