Hannah Gutang, Author at LexisNexis Middle East

Oman: Eases Restrictions on Part-Time Employment

23/01/202523/01/2025
by Hannah Gutang

The Arabian Stories, 19 January 2025: The Ministry of Labour has issued Oman Ministerial Decision No. 13/2025 regarding the governance of part-time work.

The decision outlines new regulations for the employment of minors, including students.

It applies to various categories of workers, including job seekers, students, retirees, and employees

The decision aims to provide greater flexibility for students seeking part-time work while ensuring their well-being and academic performance.

Article 2 of Ministerial Decision No. 13/2025 refers part-time work to employment with fewer working hours than those set for full-time employees in the same establishment or as defined by law.

The decision permits employers to hire workers for short periods, with conditions such as limiting employment to Omani nationals, and ensuring that working hours do not exceed 25 hours per week, with a minimum of four hours per day.

Part-time workers must be paid a minimum hourly wage of RO 3, although agreements for lower wages are permissible.

Employers are also required to offer occupational health and safety measures, provide training, and ensure payment of wages in accordance with the provisions of the Labour Law.

Part-time workers are also required to be registered in the Social Security Fund, with the required contributions made.

For students specifically, the decision establishes that they must be enrolled in a public or private school, be at least 15 years old, and obtain parental approval for part-time work.

The work must not interfere with their academic responsibilities or affect financial allocations from the educational institution.

Importantly, students are not required to seek approval from their school or higher education institution to take up part-time employment.

Furthermore, they will be provided with an experience certificate for the duration of their work.

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News developments

Kuwait: Targets Harmful Goods With New Tax Law

23/01/202523/01/2025
by Hannah Gutang

Arab Times, 15 January 2025: The Finance Ministry is preparing a selective taxation law aimed at commodities detrimental to human health, with expected annual revenues of KD 200 million (USD 648.3 million).

It was revealed that a significant step in Kuwait’s tax reform is the introduction of corporate income taxes.

This includes Kuwait Decree-Law No. 6/2024 for the Exchange of Information for Tax Purposes and Kuwait Decree No. 157/2024 for taxation on multinational entities.

Kuwait joined the OECD/G20 Inclusive Framework on Base Erosion and Profit Shifting (BEPS) on November 15, 2023, which includes 140 countries and jurisdictions.

Since then, efforts have been made to combat international tax evasion and promote transparency in taxation.

Key reforms include treaties on double taxation, combating financial evasion, and agreements for investment protection, alongside ratifying international taxation cooperation treaties.

Entities subject to Kuwait Decree No. 157/2024 are exempt from certain levies, such as those for workers under Kuwait Law No. 19/2000 and alms under Kuwait Law No. 46/2006.

Companies contributing to the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research will continue their payments, as no exemptions are mentioned in the decree.

Exemptions from the multinational taxation law include some government entities, non-profits, international agencies, and pension and investment funds.

Projected revenues from fees on multinational entities are estimated at KD 250 million (USD 810.6 million) annually, with enforcement set for the 2027-2028 period.

Approximately 300 groups, including 20 Kuwaiti and 25 Gulf groups, will be subject to this tax, with the remainder being foreign entities operating in Kuwait.

This tax enforcement aligns with Kuwait Vision 2035, aiming for a diversified and sustainable economy.

The proceeds will help diversify non-oil revenues and prevent financial outflows to other countries, enhancing Kuwait’s role in international cooperation for fair taxation practices.

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News developments

Bahrain: Tightens Timeshare Rules

23/01/202523/01/2025
by Hannah Gutang

Gulf Insider, 19 January 2025: Bahrain has introduced a comprehensive new law to regulate timeshare activities, marking a significant advancement in consumer protection and industry transparency.

Ratified by the King, the 36-article legislation targets overselling and misleading advertising, imposing stringent penalties for violations, including fines up to BD 50,000 and potential licence suspensions.

This move positions Bahrain as a leader in setting high standards for the timeshare sector.

Under the new law, all timeshare projects must appoint a licensed manager to oversee daily operations, with the project owner remaining accountable for compliance.

The Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority, or a designated body, will oversee licensing and ensure compliance to the law.

The authority is empowered to address breaches, with the ability to impose severe penalties based on the violation’s severity and impact.

Violators are notified in writing and given a chance to respond before any action is taken.

Public disclosure of breaches is permitted post-appeal or court ruling, and any criminal evidence found is forwarded to the Public Prosecution.

The licensing process for businesses is clearly defined, with a grievance process available for rejected applications.

Advertising is tightly regulated, allowing only licensed projects to market timeshare products, and banning misleading promotions and investment claims.

These rules extend to foreign projects advertised in Bahrain.

Consumer protection is a cornerstone of the law, offering a ten-day contract cancellation period with a full refund.

Escrow accounts are mandated to safeguard consumer payments, and overselling is prohibited to ensure consumers’ access to their timeshare slots. Beneficiaries can transfer or mortgage their rights, with automatic transfer to heirs upon death.

The Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority is tasked with enforcing these regulations, with inspectors granted judicial authority to ensure compliance.

Violators face severe penalties, including imprisonment and substantial fines.

Transparency is enhanced by requiring all contracts and transactions to be recorded in a timeshare registry, providing legal clarity and protecting consumers from disputes.

Licensed projects have six months to comply with the new regulations.

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News developments

Abu Dhabi: Emergency Preparedness A Must For Early Childhood Education Institutions

23/01/202523/01/2025
by Hannah Gutang

Gulf Insider, 20 January 2025: The Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) has issued a stern warning to early childhood education institutions, emphasising the importance of complying to its newly established Emergency Management Policy.

This policy, which must be fully implemented by the start of the 2025–2026 academic year, outlines a comprehensive framework for emergency preparedness and response, ensuring that all facilities and transportation vehicles are equipped with the necessary emergency signage and equipment.

The policy is designed to standardise emergency response processes across early childhood education institutions, addressing critical areas such as evacuation plans, initial safety measures, and communication protocols.

By doing so, it ensures that all stakeholders, including management, staff, parents, regulators, and service providers, are well-prepared and aware of their roles and responsibilities during emergencies.

Institutions are required to establish and implement an emergency policy that complies with applicable laws and guidelines.

This includes comprehensive planning and preparation for various emergencies, such as medical incidents, evacuations, lockdowns, and shelter-in-place scenarios.

Clear communication protocols and defined roles and responsibilities for all involved parties are also mandated.

Staff training is a crucial component of the policy, with institutions required to conduct regular training sessions on incident management, first aid, and emergency procedures.

Accurate and secure documentation of incidents must be maintained in compliance with the Abu Dhabi Occupational Safety and Health System Framework (OSHAD).

Parents must be informed of any physical injuries or health issues caused by institutional or staff negligence, serious injuries due to hazards, incidents requiring intervention from authorities, or service disruptions.

Failure to comply with these requirements, including incident reporting and compliance to investigation outcomes, will result in penalties, fines, or potential closure, depending on the severity of the violation.

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News developments

Saudi Arabia: New Executive Regulations For Law Practice Come Into Force

21/01/202521/01/2025
by Hannah Gutang

Gulf Insider, 20 January 2025: The Saudi Bar Association (SBA) has announced the enforcement of the new executive regulations for law practice, effective from 15 January 2025.

These regulations replace the previous ones issued in 1423 AH.

The updated regulations aimed to enhance the organisational framework of the legal profession, aligning it with modern international best practices.

They also seek to strengthen the Kingdom’s competitiveness and improve its business environment by ensuring the availability of essential legal services for investors and business owners across various sectors.

The new regulations include significant updates and reforms, such as the repeal of the rules on disciplinary action and the filing and adjudication of related complaints issued in 1443 AH.

Additionally, the executive regulations for licensing foreign law firms, issued in 1444 AH, and the rules for mitigating conflicts of interest for former judiciary employees and their equivalents practicing law, issued in 1444 AH, will be annulled.

Key provisions of the new regulations address the qualifications and experience required to practice law, requirements related to the integrity of the Lawyers Registration and Admission Committee, cases where lawyers are transferred to the register of non-practicing lawyers, rules for law office operations, and procedures for lawyers seeking to suspend their practice.

The SBA has emphasised its commitment to leveraging its status and authority to positively influence the regulation of the legal profession and consulting services.

The association aims to elevate professional practice standards, ensure the ethical and efficient performance of legal practitioners, and increase awareness of professional responsibilities.

These efforts are intended to empower the legal profession and foster its economic growth.

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News developments

Bahrain: Parliament Approves Draft Law To Ban Conversion Of Visit Visas Into Work Permits

17/01/202517/01/2025
by Hannah Gutang

The Daily Tribune, 15 January 2025: In a significant move to reform the labour market, Parliament has approved a draft law that prohibits the conversion of visit visas into work permits.

The proposed amendments target the 1965 Aliens (Immigration and Residence) Act, introducing a new article that explicitly bans the practice.

Additionally, the law includes provisions to annul any conflicting regulations and sets out guidelines for its implementation.

First introduced in May 2023, the draft law aims to prioritise employment opportunities for Bahraini nationals.

It aligns with the government’s long-term labour market strategy, which emphasises placing Bahraini citizens at the forefront of hiring while enhancing their skills through comprehensive training programmes.

The legislation reflects a broader effort to strengthen local employment prospects and reduce dependency on foreign labour in certain sectors.

The draft law will now proceed through the legislative process for final approval and enactment.

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News developments

UAE: Family Law Reforms

16/01/202516/01/2025
by Hannah Gutang

Khaleej Times, 10 January 2025: The UAE’s newly introduced family law represents a significant modernisation of the legal framework, aimed at enhancing the protection of children and families.

Set to take effect in April 2025, this legislation brings about substantial changes in child custody arrangements, financial rights, and educational guardianship.

One of the most notable amendments is the extension of custody age to 18 for both boys and girls, reflecting a stronger focus on the welfare of children while respecting their growing independence.

Previously, custody was granted to mothers until boys turned 11 and girls turned 13.

Now, children at the age of 15 can choose which parent they wish to live with, provided the court deems their choice to be in their best interests.

In cases involving children with severe medical or psychological conditions, custody will remain with the mother unless the court finds an alternative arrangement more suitable.

The law also expands rights for non-Muslim mothers, allowing them to retain custody of their children from Muslim fathers beyond the age of five, subject to court approval.

This marks a significant departure from the previous law, which automatically transferred custody at this age.

The legislation introduces measures to expedite family-related disputes, with educational guardianship primarily remaining with the mother but now addressable by the Urgent Matters Court for more efficient resolution.

Parents now have one year, instead of six months, to file custody claims, with courts able to grant further extensions for valid reasons.

This adjustment ensures that technicalities do not override the best interests of the child.

Equal travel rights for parents are also established, allowing either parent to travel alone with their child for up to 60 days per year, with extensions possible in special circumstances.

The law broadens the definition of family support to include non-cash assistance, such as benefits or in-kind contributions, allowing families to meet their specific needs more effectively.

Wives can now claim backdated maintenance for up to six months and request increases in mandated amounts, with monthly alimony payments given precedence over most other debts.

Stricter controls have been introduced regarding the handling of children’s identification documents, with severe legal consequences for misuse.

Criminal penalties are established for custodians who violate travel provisions or fail to deliver documents to the rightful guardian, highlighting the UAE’s commitment to safeguarding children and protecting family rights.

This new family law reflects the UAE’s dedication to fostering stronger family bonds and ensuring the best interests of all its members, in line with the country’s progressive vision for a modern society.

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News developments

Sharjah: Plans to Launch Rental Index to Reduce Disputes Between Tenants, Landlords

16/01/202516/01/2025
by Hannah Gutang

Khaleej Times, 13 January 2025: Sharjah is set to introduce a rental index aimed at enhancing transparency in the emirate’s real estate market and boosting investor confidence.

This initiative will feature a map of Sharjah, enabling residents to view rental rates in their specific areas.

The rental index, developed by Sharjah Digital in collaboration with the Sharjah Real Estate Department, is anticipated to be unveiled during the Acres 2025 exhibition at the Sharjah Expo Centre from 22 and 25 January 2025.

The introduction of the index is expected to bring greater clarity to the rental market, thereby reducing disputes between tenants and landlords.

This move follows similar initiatives in other emirates, such as Dubai’s ‘smart rental index’ and Abu Dhabi’s inaugural rental index, both designed to increase market transparency and provide indicative rental values.

Industry leaders have expressed support for the index, highlighting its potential to improve trustworthiness in the market.

The initiative is seen as a positive step towards making the real estate sector more transparent and reliable for all stakeholders involved.

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News developments

Saudi Arabia: Announces New Benefits for Importers and Exporters

16/01/202516/01/2025
by Hannah Gutang

Gulf Insider, 12 January 2025: Saudi Arabia has introduced a series of incentives aimed at enhancing trade within the Kingdom, focusing on import and export businesses.

The Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA) has partnered with 14 government entities to fortify the Saudi Authorised Economic Operator Program.

This collaboration is set to offer new benefits and incentives to importers and exporters, fostering improved cooperation between government bodies and the commercial sector.

The initiative is designed to enhance the security of the global supply chain while providing significant advantages to participating businesses.

ZATCA, in conjunction with its government partners, offers a variety of administrative, procedural, and financial benefits tailored for importers and exporters.

Additionally, a specific category of benefits is available for logistics service providers, such as customs brokers and freight forwarders.

The revamped Saudi Authorised Economic Operator Program is pivotal in advancing the Kingdom’s logistics sector by streamlining trade processes and enhancing competitiveness through inter-agency collaboration.

This effort aims to facilitate trade, improve supply chain efficiency, and expedite procedures, ensuring seamless and flexible trade operations.

It also seeks to enhance access to global markets, complying with the highest international standards and best practices.

This initiative aligns with international trade security and facilitation standards set by the World Customs Organisation, with mutual recognition agreements playing a key role in fostering international cooperation and trade benefits.

Interested parties can find more information about the program’s advantages and conditions on ZATCA’s website.

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News developments

Qatar: New Legislation Enhances Procedures for Certified Document Handling

16/01/202516/01/2025
by Hannah Gutang

This legislation, Qatar Ministerial Decision No. 157/2024, aims to ensure the integrity and compliance of certified documents when dealing with foreign authorities and within the judicial system.

The legislation outlines specific guidelines for the acceptance and deposit of certified documents before foreign authorities.

It mandates that documents must be authenticated by competent authorities in the issuing foreign country and the Foreign Affairs Minister in Qatar.

In a significant move to streamline the handling of certified documents, the Justice Ministry in Qatar has issued new legislation detailing comprehensive procedures and regulations.

Additionally, documents must comply to local laws and public morals, with certified Arabic translations required for non-Arabic documents.

Furthermore, the legislation provides a framework for issuing additional executable copies of previously executed documents.

It specifies the conditions under which such copies can be requested, ensuring that applicants have a legitimate interest and that the original document was issued by the administration.

The transfer of original documents to courts or prosecution is also addressed, with strict conditions to prevent unauthorised modifications.

The legislation requires that originals be returned after their intended use, maintaining the integrity of the documents.

Appointed experts reviewing certified documents must meet specific criteria, including registration with the Justice Ministry and presenting judicial appointment orders.

The review process is to be conducted under the supervision of responsible administration employees.

In cases where translators from outside the Ministry of Justice’s experts’ list are needed, the legislation sets conditions to ensure accountability and accuracy.

This includes the absence of registered translators in the required language and written undertakings from concerned parties to bear responsibility for the translation.

This legislation, effective from its issuance date, marks a significant step in enhancing the management and legal compliance of certified documents in Qatar.

It highlights the Ministry of Justice’s commitment to maintaining high standards in document handling and ensuring the smooth operation of legal and administrative processes.

It aims to ensure the integrity and compliance of certified documents when dealing with foreign authorities and within the judicial system.

The legislation outlines specific guidelines for the acceptance and deposit of certified documents before foreign authorities.

It mandates that documents must be authenticated by competent authorities in the issuing foreign country and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Qatar.

Additionally, documents must adhere to local laws and public morals, with certified Arabic translations required for non-Arabic documents.

Furthermore, the legislation provides a framework for issuing additional executable copies of previously executed documents.

It specifies the conditions under which such copies can be requested, ensuring that applicants have a legitimate interest and that the original document was issued by the administration.

The transfer of original documents to courts or prosecution is also addressed, with strict conditions to prevent unauthorized modifications.

The legislation requires that originals be returned after their intended use, maintaining the integrity of the documents.

Appointed experts reviewing certified documents must meet specific criteria, including registration with the Ministry of Justice and presenting judicial appointment orders.

The review process is to be conducted under the supervision of responsible administration employees.

In cases where translators from outside the Ministry of Justice’s experts’ list are needed, the legislation sets conditions to ensure accountability and accuracy.

This includes the absence of registered translators in the required language and written undertakings from concerned parties to bear responsibility for the translation.

This legislation, effective from its issuance date, marks a significant step in enhancing the management and legal compliance of certified documents in Qatar.

It highlights the Ministry of Justice’s commitment to maintaining high standards in document handling and ensuring the smooth operation of legal and administrative processes.

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