Terms of Service | StartupOS

1. Acceptance of Terms

By accessing or using the StartupOS platform at startupos.ae (“the Platform”), you agree to be bound by these Terms of Service (“Terms”). If you do not agree, do not use the Platform.

2. Definitions

“Platform” means the StartupOS web application and all related services
“User” means any individual or entity who accesses the Platform
“Founder” means a User who uses the Platform for business setup, compliance, or management
“Associate” means a vetted service provider listed on the Platform
“Services” means the features and functionality offered by the Platform

3. Eligibility

You must be at least 18 years old and have the legal capacity to enter into binding agreements. By registering, you represent that you are authorized to act on behalf of any company or entity you associate with your account.

4. Account Registration

You must provide accurate and complete information during registration
You are responsible for maintaining the security of your account credentials
You agree to notify us immediately of any unauthorized access
One individual or entity may maintain one account

5. Use of the Platform

5.1 Permitted Use

You may use the Platform for lawful business purposes including:

Company onboarding and management
Compliance tracking and document storage
Browsing and engaging vetted service providers
Using Zaki AI advisor for UAE business guidance
Managing escrow payments for services

5.2 Prohibited Conduct

You agree not to:

Use the Platform for any unlawful purpose
Provide false or misleading information
Infringe on intellectual property rights
Attempt to disrupt or compromise Platform security
Use automated tools to scrape or extract data without permission
Engage in fraud, money laundering, or sanctions evasion

6. Service Marketplace and Escrow

6.1 Service Requests

When you request a service through the Platform, you enter into a direct agreement with the Associate. StartupOS facilitates the transaction but is not a party to the service agreement.

6.2 Escrow Payments

Payments for services are held in escrow until milestone completion
Funds are released to the Associate only when you approve each milestone
Disputes must be raised within 7 days of milestone submission
StartupOS reserves the right to resolve disputes based on evidence provided

6.3 Refunds

Refunds are handled on a case-by-case basis. If an Associate fails to deliver agreed services, funds remain in escrow until resolution. Contact our support team for refund requests.

7. Zaki AI Advisor

Zaki is an AI-powered assistant that provides general guidance on UAE business regulations. Zaki’s responses are informational and should not be considered legal, tax, or professional advice. For critical decisions, consult licensed professionals through our Service Hub.

8. Subscriptions and Billing

Paid subscriptions are billed monthly or annually in advance
A 7-day free trial is available with no credit card required
You can cancel anytime; access continues until the end of the billing period
Prices are in AED and may change with notice
No refunds for partial billing periods

9. Intellectual Property

The Platform, including its design, features, and content, is owned by StartupOS and protected by intellectual property laws. You retain ownership of all documents and data you upload to the Platform.

10. Data and Privacy

Your use of the Platform is governed by our Privacy Policy, available at /privacy-policy, which describes how we collect and process your data in compliance with UAE PDPL.

11. Disclaimers

The Platform is provided “as is” without warranties of any kind
We do not guarantee that Associates’ services will meet your expectations
We are not liable for indirect, incidental, or consequential damages
You use the Platform at your own risk

12. Limitation of Liability

To the maximum extent permitted by law, StartupOS’s total liability for any claim arising from these Terms is limited to the amount you paid in the preceding 12 months.

13. Governing Law

These Terms are governed by the laws of the United Arab Emirates. Any disputes shall be resolved in the courts of Dubai, UAE.

14. Changes to Terms

We may update these Terms from time to time. Material changes will be communicated via email or a prominent notice on the Platform. Continued use after changes constitutes acceptance.

15. Contact

For questions about these Terms, contact us at legal@startupos.ae.