The clauses, payment terms and verification steps that protect foreign founders when appointing local suppliers in Dubai.
Verify before you sign
Confirm the supplier's trade licence, licensed activities and the authority of the person signing. A licence that does not cover the contracted activity can leave you without practical recourse.
Ask for references from comparable projects and check whether the quoted team will actually deliver the work.
Clauses that matter most
Define scope, deliverables and acceptance criteria in measurable terms. Vague scope is the most common source of variation claims and cost overruns.
Tie payments to verified milestones rather than dates, cap variations without written approval, and include delay penalties and a clear termination right.
MOULAY tip: Not sure which option applies to you? Run your numbers in our delivery & budget dashboard before you commit.
Payment structure
Avoid large upfront payments. A modest mobilisation advance followed by milestone payments keeps leverage on your side until work is delivered.
Retain a small percentage until final acceptance and the end of any defects period.