Seeking advice on unpaid invoices for completed work in the UAE
Seeking advice on unpaid invoices for completed work in the UAE
Looking for some guidance from business owners/freelancers in the UAE.
I provide creative services and worked with a client for quite a while. We had an initial contract that expired, but the working relationship continued afterward through ongoing requests, deliveries, and communication on WhatsApp and other channels.
A few invoices from the last few months remain unpaid (AED 10k+). The work was completed and delivered, and we’re only asking to be paid for services already rendered. We’ve followed up multiple times but haven’t been able to resolve the matter.
A few questions:
How much weight do WhatsApp messages, invoices, and proof of delivery carry in the UAE?
Has anyone used debt collection agencies here? How do they work, and are they effective?
Is it better to send a legal notice first or go straight to filing a civil claim?
Any practical steps you’d recommend before escalating the matter?
Would appreciate hearing from anyone who’s dealt with something similar in the UAE.