The UAE continues to refine its fiscal and compliance framework through a series of recent tax changes and regulatory updates that will take effect in 2026. These developments include targeted amendments to the VAT regime, procedural reforms that apply across all federal taxes, a redesigned excise model for sugar-sweetened beverages, and a revised administrative penalties […]
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Insights into updated procedures, fee reforms, and increased filing activity The UAE continues to strengthen its trademark framework through a series of legislative updates, administrative reforms and digital advancements introduced in 2024 and 2025. Collectively, these measures reflect the country’s commitment to modernizing its intellectual property system, supporting business growth, and aligning with international standards.
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Federal Decree-Law No. 10 of 2025 on Anti-Money Laundering, and Combating the Financing of Terrorism and Proliferation Financing (the 2025 AML Law) repeals and replaces Federal Decree-Law No. 20 of 2018 (as amended). It came into force in mid-October 2025 and is expressly designed to strengthen the UAE’s AML/CFT/CPF framework and align it more closely
Federal Decree Law No. (10) of 2025: Key Changes and New AML/CFT Regulations in the UAE Read More »
The UAE issued Federal Decree-Law No. (6) of 2025 on 10 October 2025, establishing a new legal framework for the UAE Central Bank and the regulation of financial institutions, activities, and insurance. This comprehensive law unifies banking and insurance oversight under one framework, replacing laws from 2018 and 2023. It highlights the UAE’s ongoing efforts
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Safeguarding Your Most Valuable Intangible Assets In the United Arab Emirates’ fast-paced economy, a company’s most valuable assets are often intangible, such as proprietary formulas, client databases, and internal processes—collectively known as “trade secrets.” The unauthorized disclosure of this “secret sauce” can inflict significant financial damage and undermine a company’s market position. Unlike patents or
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The UAE’s Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) introduced significant reforms to its visa and residency system. These changes include the addition of new visa categories tailored to emerging sectors — especially technology, events, tourism — along with expanded humanitarian and family-support provisions. The overhaul reflects the UAE’s ambition to open
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The UAE has announced the mandatory implementation of electronic invoicing (e-invoicing) effective July 2026. This development follows recent amendments to the Value Added Tax (VAT) Law and the Tax Procedures Law and represents a significant step toward modernizing the country’s tax compliance framework. Businesses must carefully evaluate the legal and operational impact of this change
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Holiday homes—often referred to as short-term or vacation rentals—are a distinct segment of the hospitality industry, offering fully furnished villas, apartments, or townhouses for stays ranging from a few nights to several months. Unlike traditional hotel rooms, these properties provide a more residential experience with larger living spaces, fitted kitchens, laundry facilities, and in many
Holiday Homes in the UAE: Insights for Investors Read More »
Dubai has launched a fundamental restructuring of its business ecosystem with the One Freezone Passport, a groundbreaking initiative by the Dubai Free Zones Council (DFZC). This policy dismantles the long-standing operational silos that have defined the emirate’s successful yet fragmented free zone landscape. It allows a company licensed in one of Dubai’s 30+ free zones
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Introduction: Context and Purpose of Cabinet Resolution No. (42) of 2025 Cabinet Resolution No. (42) of 2025 strengthens Federal Decree-Law No. (55) of 2023, modernizing UAE media regulation by replacing outdated laws. It’s a “game-enhancer,” providing specific administrative violations and quantifiable penalties for effective enforcement. Effective May 29, 2025, its goals include promoting responsible communication,
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