Selling a business in Dubai can return years of hard work in one transaction — but only if you do it right. Here is exactly what you need to know.
1. Decide If You Are Ready
Know your reason for selling — retirement, relocation, new venture, or financial pressure. Sellers who go to market from a position of strength get better prices. If you can, prepare 6 to 12 months in advance.
2. Value It Correctly
Overpricing is the number one reason businesses sit unsold. Dubai businesses are typically valued at 1.5x to 5x EBITDA depending on sector. A restaurant or salon sits at the lower end. A polyclinic or hotel sits at the higher end. Base your price on verified earnings, not what you invested to build it.
3. Prepare Your Documents
Have these ready before you list — 24 months of bank statements, profit and loss statements, trade license, tenancy contract, staff list with salaries, and all sector approvals. Deals collapse when sellers cannot back up their numbers.
4. Sign an NDA Before Sharing Anything
Never share financials, staff details, or operational information without a signed NDA. Your staff, suppliers, and competitors should not know the business is for sale until you are ready.
5. Find the Right Buyer
Not every enquiry is a serious buyer. Work with a broker who qualifies buyers, manages the pipeline, and brings verified, motivated investors to you directly.
6. Negotiate Clearly
Agree on price, payment structure, what is included in the sale, staff gratuity liabilities, and the handover period before signing anything.
7. Complete the DET Transfer
The license transfer at the Department of Economy and Tourism typically takes 2 to 6 weeks once the MOU is signed. Sector-specific approvals like DHA or KHDA may add time.
Ready to sell? Contact BFS today.
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