20/08/2026
YOUR BUSINESS PARTNER DISAPPEARED IN DUBAI: WHAT TO DO?
The situation is unpleasant but not hopeless: the business is in the UAE, bank accounts and contracts are registered in your partner’s name, and he has disappeared. How should the other partner act?👇
1️⃣ Gather all company documents
Immediately determine:
— who is the manager / signatory on the accounts;
— whether you have signing authority;
— what the memorandum of association says in the event of death, incapacity, or exit of a partner.
2️⃣ Document the disappearance
If you suspect fraud or misappropriation of funds, file a criminal complaint.
Keep all correspondence, attempts to contact, and information on recent transactions.
3️⃣ Notify the bank
Inform the bank about the situation and request temporary restrictions on the account.
This is necessary to prevent anyone from withdrawing money using an old power of attorney or forged documents.
❗ Do not attempt to sign documents on behalf of your partner — this is a criminal offence in the UAE.
4️⃣ Go to court
Through the UAE courts, you can obtain:
— attachment or freezing of accounts;
— appointment of an interim manager for the business;
— permission to hold a partners’ meeting without the missing partner and change the signatory;
— in case of prolonged absence, commencement of proceedings to declare the person missing or deceased.
5️⃣ Protect your contracts and assets
Notify key counterparties of the interim arrangements to avoid defaults.
Do not stop critical operations without legal advice.
Check leases, employee visas, licences, and their renewal deadlines.
6️⃣ Hire a lawyer immediately
Procedures in Dubai require properly drafted applications to the court, bank, and police, often in Arabic.
Acting on your own can cost you time and assets.
Conclusion: The disappearance of a partner is a serious but solvable legal matter. The key is to act quickly and through lawful means.
If you are facing this situation, contact us for a consultation. We will determine the course of action for your case.
