Legally speaking the positions of chairmanship and membership of the board of directors in companies got their burdens and liabilities, likewise, their advantages and disadvantages. This legal burden is clearly coming from the fact that everyone has the right to take legal action, against company directors. They are, as we can see, exposed to legal proceedings from within or without the company and, as a fact, this is happening every now and then.This indicates that, directors should perform their duties with utmost care and due diligence, honesty and high standards of professionalism, failing which the company or the shareholders or any other third party may take proceedings against them jointly or individually.They are jointly liable if the fault or negligent mistake occurs as a result of resolution(s) adopted unanimously. However, if a resolution has been adopted by majority only, the dissenting directors shall not be held liable provided that they have recorded their objections, as a sort of dissenting opnion.Moreover, it is important to mention, that mere absence of a director during the meeting will not automatically absolve from the liability unless he can prove that he was not aware of the resolution or was aware of it but unable to show objection. We believe, this is very important because the intention of the legislature is to close the door for some directors who may prefer an “alibi” when they know that certain issues will be discussed and they don’t want to involve themselves for any reason whatsoever.The general assembly shall specify who should take legal proceedings, if any, on behalf of the company versus the directors. A shareholder, may initiate such proceedings if he can prove the occurrence of damage to him and all steps shall be taken to notify the management of his intention to initiate legal proceedings.An additional burden, relates to the fact that the directors shall do or start any work that may cause competition to the company. The conflict-of-interest rule shall be observed very carefully to streamline the concepts of corporate culture and corporate governance. This is needed to deprive occurrence of all instances of malpractices, opportunism and importation or even criminal breach of trust.It is important to say that, above directives are almost included in the company laws and corporate governance rules in all Gulf countries, however, they are also international concepts.All at the top helm of the company, including all directors, are advised to carefully take above issues in consideration, if interested to be a useful dynamic director. It is a one-way route, to reach the destination anticipated by the company and its stakeholders.Dr AbdelGadir Warsama Ghalib is a legal counsel.