Overview
The UAE has modernised its insolvency and bankruptcy frameworks in recent years, bringing them in line with international best practice. The main statutes include:
Federal Decree-Law No. 9 of 2016 on Bankruptcy (as amended in 2019, 2020, and 2022).
Federal Decree-Law No. 19 of 2019 on Insolvency of Natural Persons.
DIFC Insolvency Law (Law No. 1 of 2019).
ADGM Insolvency Regulations 2015 (as amended).
These regimes provide tools for corporate restructuring, preventive settlements, formal bankruptcy procedures, liquidation, and cross-border recognition of insolvency proceedings. They balance creditor protection with business rescue objectives, making the UAE a credible jurisdiction for debt workouts and structured exits.
How Can Insolvency & Bankruptcy Lawyers Help?
Corporate Restructuring & Preventive Settlements
Negotiating preventive settlements with creditors.
Advising boards on restructuring strategies under the UAE Bankruptcy Law.
Bankruptcy Proceedings
Representing companies in voluntary bankruptcy filings.
Advising creditors on recovery strategies and participation in proceedings.
Liquidation & Winding-Up
Handling compulsory and voluntary liquidations in mainland and free zones.
Ensuring compliance with ROC, ESR, VAT, and tax exit obligations.
Director Liability & Compliance
Advising directors on personal liability avoidance.
Guiding natural persons through the Insolvency of Natural Persons Law.
Cross-Border Insolvency
Coordinating with foreign courts for recognition of the UAE insolvency rulings.
Representing investors in multi-jurisdictional debt recovery.
Our Experience in Insolvency & Bankruptcy Law
Represented a UAE construction company in a preventive settlement with multiple banks and trade creditors.
Acted for lenders in bankruptcy proceedings involving a regional logistics group.
Advised directors of a distressed retail company on liability mitigation under Federal Bankruptcy Law.
Managed liquidation of free zone and offshore SPVs as part of group restructuring.
Assisted high-net-worth individuals with natural person insolvency filings to restructure personal debt.
Legal Services We Provide
Preventive settlement and restructuring advisory
Corporate bankruptcy filings and litigation support
Creditor representation and debt recovery strategies
Voluntary and compulsory liquidations
DIFC and ADGM insolvency proceedings
Director liability defence and compliance guidance
Cross-border insolvency recognition and coordination
⚖️ At Pin Legal Consultancy, our insolvency and bankruptcy lawyers combine local legal expertise with cross-border restructuring experience. Whether protecting creditors, advising distressed companies, or defending directors, we deliver strategic solutions that preserve value and minimise risk.