The May-June 2025 edition of Lexis Middle East Law Alert provides legal professionals across the GCC with the latest updates, expert insights, and analyses on pivotal developments in the region. This issue focuses on major changes in the legal landscape, including the recent introduction of a comprehensive law aimed at simplifying the framework for DIFC courts. We also explore the upcoming Oman Investment and Trade Court, set to begin operations in October 2025, which promises to reshape dispute resolution in the region. Additional coverage includes significant proposed amendments to Saudi Arabia’s Data Protection Law and the evolving tax regulations in the UAE, particularly impacting non-resident investors.

This edition also highlights key developments affecting the legal and financial sectors, in addition to an in-depth profile of Rahaf Saad, the rising star from Alinma Bank, who shares her experiences in strategic deals and regulatory compliance. The issue is rounded out with a movers and shakers segment and a focused look at Saudi employment contracts. It’s a comprehensive resource for legal professionals seeking to stay ahead of emerging trends and regulatory shifts in the Middle East.

FEATURE: ENFORCING CHANGE

Dr. Mahmood Hussain of M&Co delves into the DIFC Centre Courts Law, which aims to simplify and consolidate the legal framework governing the DIFC courts, providing a more comprehensive law for stakeholders.

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FEATURE: NEW DISPUTE ROUTES

A preview of the upcoming Oman Investment and Trade Court, set to open in October 2025. Legal experts Oliver Stevens, Ali Aideed, and Mohammed Al Siyabi from Addleshaw Goddard explore what’s known about its structure and operational model.

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IN-HOUSE PROFILE

Rahaf Saad, a Legal Associate at Alinma Bank, shares her journey and how her work on strategic deals and regulatory compliance initiatives earned her the LexisNexis Rising Star Award.

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MOVERS AND SHAKERS

A roundup of significant career moves in the region, presented in association with Jameson Legal.

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CONTRACT WATCH

A detailed look at Saudi Employment Contracts by Sara Khoja, Employment Partner at Clyde and Co.

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TAX AND FINANCE ROUND-UP

Key updates on tax and finance, with a particular focus on UAE’s new tax changes for non-resident investors.

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LEGAL ROUND-UP

Updates on the evolving landscape of data protection in Saudi Arabia.

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Explore the past editions of the Lexis® Middle East Law Alert and stay up-to-date with the latest news! Click the links below for instant access to older editions.

Lexis Middle East Law Alert_March-April 2025

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LAW MONITOR

Discover the recent legal progressions in the GCC, with a focus on the newly implemented competition law regulations in the UAE.

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