UAE UBO register checker
A UAE company's ultimate beneficial owner (UBO) is any individual who owns or controls 25% or more of its shares or voting rights, directly or indirectly, or otherwise controls it (for example by appointing most directors). Companies must keep a UBO register, file it with their licensing authority and update it within 15 days of any change.
Reviewed by Countify's ACCA/FCCA chartered certified accountants · Updated
- Is a beneficial owner
- Yes
Record every beneficial owner in the company's UBO register and file it with the licensing authority. Update it within 15 days of any change.
If no individual meets these tests, record the person who exercises ultimate control, or failing that, the senior manager.
Results are estimates for general information, not tailored advice.
Who counts as a UBO
Ownership and voting tests at 25%.
| Shareholder | Is a beneficial owner |
|---|---|
| 10% shareholder | No |
| 25% shareholder | Yes |
| 5% with board control | Yes |
Indirect holdings through other companies are traced up to the individual.
Registers and penalties
Companies keep a register of beneficial owners, a register of partners or shareholders and a register of nominee directors. Licensing authorities can fine companies that fail to keep or update the registers. Banks and auditors will ask for them too, as part of KYC.
Legal basis
- Cabinet Decision No. 109 of 2023 on the regulation of beneficial owner procedures
We review this calculator whenever the FTA or Ministry of Finance issues a new decision or clarification.
Frequently asked questions
What percentage makes someone a UBO in the UAE?
25% or more of shares or voting rights, directly or indirectly, or control by other means.
How quickly must the UBO register be updated?
Within 15 days of the change.
Company formation in the UAE
We set up your free zone or mainland company, open the tax registrations and get bookkeeping running from day one, so the first year has no surprises.