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Getting startedUnited Arab EmiratesUpdated

What documents do UAE banks and lenders ask for when an SME applies for funding?

Short answer

UAE lenders commonly ask for your trade licence and company documents, shareholder identification, audited financial statements, recent bank statements, VAT records and a credit report. Exact requirements vary by lender and product, but having these ready speeds up any application.

Company documents

  • Trade licence and certificate of incorporation
  • Memorandum and Articles of Association and any amendments
  • Passports, visas and Emirates IDs of shareholders and signatories
  • Office tenancy contract (for example, Ejari in Dubai)

Financial documents

  • Audited financial statements, usually for the last two to three years
  • Current-year management accounts
  • Business bank statements, commonly for the last 6 to 12 months
  • VAT registration certificate and recent VAT returns
  • Aged receivables and payables reports

Credit and facility information

  • Details of existing loans and facilities
  • Your company and shareholder credit reports from the Al Etihad Credit Bureau (AECB)
  • For trade finance, samples of contracts, invoices and shipping documents

Tips to avoid delays

  • Make sure your figures match across accounts, bank statements and VAT returns.
  • Prepare a short explanation for any unusual items or one-off losses.
  • Keep all documents current and clearly labelled.

How SYG International helps

  1. We review your financials, cash cycle and existing banking to confirm the right product and size.
  2. We structure the request and prepare a credit package that funders can assess quickly.
  3. We approach suitable banks, fintechs and private lenders in parallel, so you can compare offers.
  4. We negotiate terms with you and manage documentation through to drawdown.

Want to know which option fits your business? Talk to SYG International.

Discuss your funding

Frequently asked questions

Do I need audited accounts to get funding?

Most banks require them for larger facilities. Some fintech and private lenders can work from management accounts and bank statements for smaller amounts.

How long does document preparation take?

If your accounts are up to date, a complete pack can often be assembled in days. Missing audits or VAT records usually cause the longest delays.

SYG International advises on, structures and arranges funding. We do not lend. Final decisions, pricing and terms rest with each funding institution.