When you buy a business through a commercial business broker in Dubai, there is a clear process to follow. Some buyers see it as extra steps. In reality, it is there to protect you, your money and the deal.
Here is exactly how it works at BFS, from the first viewing to the day the business becomes yours.
Step 1: Viewing the Business
Once you have signed the NDA and seen the main details, the next step is a viewing. You share a few time slots that suit you, and we arrange the visit with the seller.
The viewing is your chance to see the business in person: the location, the setup, the condition of the fit-out and how it runs day to day.
Tip: Visit at a busy time if you can. It tells you more than any document.
Step 2: Making an Offer
If you like what you see, you place an offer. The seller can accept it, reject it, or come back with a counter-offer.
From here, both sides can negotiate. We stay in the middle to keep things clear, fair and moving, so nothing gets lost or misunderstood along the way.
Step 3: Paying the Deposit
Once the price is agreed, you place a deposit to secure the business. This takes it off the market while you do your checks.
Important: BFS holds the deposit, not the seller. Your money does not go to the seller at this stage. It stays with us until the deal moves forward.
Step 4: Full Access and Due Diligence
After the deposit is paid, you get full access. This is when you can:
- Speak with the seller directly
- Review the company bank statements
- Check the licence, lease and staff details
- Do your full due diligence
Before the deposit, information is kept confidential to protect the seller's staff, customers and landlord. After the deposit, everything opens up so you can check the business properly.
Step 5: Deciding Whether to Go Ahead
Once you have seen everything, it is time to decide. A good broker will give you an honest view, not just push the sale.
At BFS, our job is to advise you. If something doesn't look right, we'll tell you.
Step 6: The Sale Agreement
If you decide to go ahead, we prepare the sale agreement between you and the seller. It sets out the price, what is included, the handover terms and the transfer date, so both sides know exactly what they are signing.
Step 7: Transfer Day
On transfer day:
- You pay the balance directly to the seller
- The trade licence is transferred into your name at DED
- For some businesses, such as clinics and healthcare, the relevant authority (for example DHA) is also involved
- The landlord security deposit and any rent the seller paid in advance are returned to the seller, on top of the sale price
Once the transfer is done, the business is yours.
Read more: Business Transfer Day in Dubai: What Happens Step by Step
Why This Process Protects You
- Your deposit is safe: it is held by BFS, not the seller
- You check before you commit: full access comes before the final decision
- Everything is in writing: the sale agreement protects both sides
- You are not alone: someone is managing every step for you
Buying a business is a big decision. The right process makes it a safe one.
Conclusion
Buying a business through a broker in Dubai follows a simple order: viewing, offer, deposit, due diligence, decision, agreement and transfer. Each step is there for a reason, and each one protects you. At BFS, we stay with you from the first viewing until the licence is in your name.
Found a business you like? Contact BFS to arrange a viewing and start the process.
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FAQ
Who holds the deposit when buying a business through BFS?
BFS holds the deposit, not the seller. The balance is paid directly to the seller on transfer day.
When can I speak to the seller directly?
Once the deposit is paid, you can speak with the seller directly and do your full due diligence.
When can I see the bank statements?
The company bank statements are shared after the deposit is paid.
Can I negotiate the price?
Yes. After the viewing you can make an offer, and both sides can negotiate with BFS facilitating.
Where is the trade licence transferred?
The trade licence is transferred at DED. For some activities, such as healthcare, the relevant authority like DHA is also involved.
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