What decides entitlement to profit?
The MOA, the shareholders' agreement and the company's resolutions, read with the Commercial Companies Law. Percentage of ownership usually governs unless the documents say otherwise. Salary or fees for work are separate.
What if the accounts are missing or unreliable?
The court can appoint an accounting expert to examine the books and bank records. We prepare the questions and document requests carefully because the expert report often shapes the outcome. A missing set of accounts is itself significant.
Can profit be withheld?
Companies may retain profit for legitimate reasons such as reserves. Retention to starve a minority is open to challenge. Evidence of payments to insiders is key. See oppression claims.
Documents to have ready
- MOA and shareholders' agreement
- Financial statements by year
- Bank statements
- General assembly resolutions on profit
- Records of payments to shareholders
Send us the documentsA short message and the key papers are enough for a first assessment.
WhatsApp usCommon questions
Can I claim past profits?
If entitlement is shown and the profit can be quantified. Time limits may apply, so act promptly.
Can the company pay me a salary instead of dividends?
Only if properly agreed. It does not replace profit entitlement.
More on shareholder & partnership disputes
This page is general information based on UAE and Dubai legislation as we understand it at the date of drafting. It is not legal advice. Laws are amended, and the right step depends on your documents and facts. Outcomes are never guaranteed.