What is a Non Binding Offer?
The Non-Binding Offer Template is a crucial document used in the initial stages of business negotiations in the United Arab Emirates. It provides a structured format for companies to present preliminary proposals while explicitly maintaining their non-binding nature under UAE law. This document is particularly valuable when businesses need to make formal proposals without creating legally binding obligations, allowing for flexibility in negotiations while demonstrating serious business intent. The template is designed to comply with UAE Federal Laws, including the Civil Code (Federal Law No. 5 of 1985) and Commercial Transactions Law (Federal Law No. 18 of 1993), and includes clear disclaimers and statements about its non-binding status to prevent any misinterpretation under UAE legal framework.
About the Non Binding Offer
When entering business negotiations in the United Arab Emirates, you need documents that demonstrate serious intent while preserving your flexibility to negotiate terms. A Non Binding Offer template provides the perfect solution, allowing you to present detailed proposals without creating immediate legal obligations under UAE law.
When do you need this document?
You'll require a Non Binding Offer when exploring potential business partnerships, investment opportunities, or commercial arrangements where you want to test the waters before committing. This document is essential when presenting acquisition proposals to target companies, outlining joint venture possibilities with potential partners, or submitting comprehensive service proposals to prospective clients. Many UAE businesses use these offers during due diligence phases of major transactions, when negotiating complex supply agreements, or when responding to requests for proposals where you need time to finalize terms. The document proves particularly valuable in sectors like real estate, construction, and technology where initial proposals often require extensive refinement.
Key legal considerations
Your Non Binding Offer must contain explicit language declaring its non-binding nature to avoid unintended contractual formation under UAE law. Include clear statements that no legal obligations arise until a separate, definitive agreement is executed by authorized representatives. Specify which elements, if any, remain binding—such as confidentiality clauses or exclusivity periods—while ensuring the core commercial terms remain non-binding. Address the validity period of your offer and reserve your right to modify or withdraw it at any time. Consider including provisions about good faith negotiations and the framework for transitioning to binding agreements. Be careful with your language around acceptance, as overly definitive statements could create binding obligations despite your non-binding declarations.
Legal requirements in United Arab Emirates
Under UAE Federal Law No. 5 of 1985 (Civil Code), your offer must clearly distinguish between binding and non-binding elements to prevent contractual formation through conduct or acceptance. The Commercial Transactions Law (Federal Law No. 18 of 1993) requires commercial entities to act in good faith, so include provisions acknowledging this obligation while maintaining your non-binding status. If communicating electronically, ensure compliance with the Electronic Commerce Law (Federal Law No. 1 of 2006) regarding electronic signatures and communications. Corporate entities must verify they have proper authority under the Commercial Companies Law (Federal Law No. 2 of 2015) to make such offers. Include appropriate disclaimers about regulatory approvals, licenses, or permits that may be required for the proposed transaction. Consider UAE court jurisdiction and governing law clauses to provide clarity on dispute resolution should disagreements arise during negotiations.
Governing law
Applicable law
This Non Binding Offer is drafted to comply with United Arab Emirates law. Key legislation includes:
UAE Federal Law No. 18 of 1993 (Commercial Transactions Law): Regulates commercial transactions and business dealings, including provisions on commercial contracts and business relationships
UAE Federal Law No. 1 of 2006 (Electronic Commerce Law): Governs electronic transactions and communications, relevant if the offer is to be made or communicated electronically
UAE Federal Law No. 2 of 2015 (Commercial Companies Law): Contains provisions relevant to business entities and their capacity to enter into commercial arrangements
UAE Federal Law No. 19 of 2018 (Foreign Direct Investment Law): May be relevant if the offer involves foreign investment or foreign business entities