LexisNexis Middle East

Ajman: Decree regulating rental‑dispute fees and deposits issued

05/03/202605/03/2026
by Tanya Jain

Gulf News, 3 March 2026: Ajman has issued a new Emiri Decree regulating the fees and deposits applicable to rental‑dispute proceedings before the Rental Disputes Settlement Centre.

Ajman Emiri Decree No. 2/2026 was issued introducing a framework for the collection of fees and deposits for cases and applications filed before the Rental Disputes Settlement Centre. The decree establishes a Dh1,000 security deposit for appeals challenging rulings within the final jurisdiction of the Primary Rental Committee, limited to grounds involving public‑order jurisdictional defects or procedural invalidity, with confiscation applying if the appeal is ruled inadmissible.

It further imposes a Dh2,000 deposit for petitions for reconsideration, refundable only if accepted, and sets out the mechanism for the Centre to collect fines for rental violations, prohibiting duplicate collection by municipal authorities.

Ajman Emiri Decree No. 2/2026 repeals earlier legislation on judicial fees for rental disputes, with certain provisions remaining temporarily in force pending the issuance of new implementing regulations.

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News developments

Abu Dhabi: Fast‑food advertising banned

05/03/202605/03/2026
by Tanya Jain

The National, 27 February 2026: Abu Dhabi authorities announce a ban on fast‑food advertising as part of a broader strategy to reduce exposure to unhealthy food marketing and improve public health.

Abu Dhabi has been developing policies aimed at reducing non‑communicable diseases linked to unhealthy diets. The new measure bans fast‑food advertising across the emirate as part of a wider framework regulating the promotion of unhealthy food and beverages.

The policy regulating unhealthy food and beverage advertising places restrictions on marketing products high in fat, sugar and salt, particularly where children could be influenced. It aims to reduce obesity and other chronic diseases by limiting public exposure to unhealthy food promotions, and it introduces coordinated enforcement involving regulatory, municipal and health authorities.

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News developments

UAE: Authorities Activate New Rule to Break Monopoly on Medical Products

27/02/202627/02/2026
by Hannah Gutang

Gulf Today, 24 February 2026: The UAE has activated a first‑of‑its‑kind mechanism requiring pharmaceutical companies to appoint multiple agents for each medical product to break long‑standing monopolies and strengthen national pharmaceutical security.

The Emirates Drug Establishment (EDE) said it has activated the new mechanism under Federal Decree‑Law No. 38/2024 on Medical Products, the Pharmacy Profession, and Pharmaceutical Establishments, marking the first time the UAE has obliged pharmaceutical firms to register more than one authorised agent per medical product. The move is part of a national strategy to enhance pharmaceutical security, diversify supply chains, and ensure the continuous availability of medicines and medical products across the country.

Officials explained that the reform aims to end exclusive‑agent control, reduce the risk of supply disruptions during emergencies or operational challenges, and improve the efficiency and resilience of medical‑product distribution. The EDE added that expanding the number of authorised agents will accelerate delivery times, improve inventory management, and boost the UAE’s attractiveness as an investment destination in the pharmaceutical sector.

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News developments

Saudi Arabia: Government Allowed Exemptions for Contracting with Firms Lacking Regional HQ

27/02/202627/02/2026
by Hannah Gutang

Saudi Gazette, 19 February 2026: Saudi Arabia has introduced a formal exemption mechanism permitting government entities to contract with international companies that do not maintain a regional headquarters in the Kingdom.

The decision, announced by the Local Content and Government Procurement Authority, aims to balance the Kingdom’s strict “Relocation of Headquarters” policy—effective since early 2024—with the practical needs of major projects requiring specialised technical expertise or strong financial competitiveness. Under the earlier rule, all government bodies, funds, institutions, and affiliated agencies had been prohibited from contracting with foreign companies whose regional headquarters were located outside Saudi Arabia.

The authority confirmed that government entities may now request an exemption for specific projects, groups of projects, or defined periods, provided the request is submitted before issuing a tender or initiating direct contracting. The electronic service for submitting such exemption requests went live on the “Etimad” digital platform in November 2025, offering an official channel for regulated applications. Requests for older tenders or tenders issued outside the platform will continue under the previous mechanism.

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News developments

Qatar: MoCI Rolls Out 36 New E‑Services

27/02/202627/02/2026
by Hannah Gutang

The Peninsula, 24 February 2026: Qatar’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI) has launched 36 new e‑services to simplify licensing procedures and accelerate the country’s digital‑government agenda.

The Ministry said the newly introduced services cover a wide spectrum of commercial and regulatory activities, including licensing for prize draws, annual and seasonal sales, loyalty programmes, “Scan and Win” campaigns, special offers, festivals, initiatives, promotional campaigns and final‑clearance sales. The platform also expands brokerage‑activity services, enabling the issuance, renewal, amendment, cancellation and replacement of broker licences and cards, all completed electronically.

The initiative targets full digitalisation of government services, enhanced business efficiency and stronger innovation within the commercial, industrial and investment sectors.

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News developments

Oman: Regulators Review Children’s Social Media Use Amid Digital‑Safety Concerns

27/02/202627/02/2026
by Hannah Gutang

Gulf News, 20 February 2026: Oman’s Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) has begun reviewing children’s use of social media as part of plans to introduce a new regulatory framework addressing online‑safety risks.

Authorities said the review have been prompted by studies indicating risks such as exposure to harmful content and excessive screen time. The TRA confirmed that the initiative would reassess the legal responsibilities of platforms accessed by minors, including potential measures on parental controls, age‑verification requirements and oversight obligations for service providers.

The regulator announced it would conduct consultations with families, educators, technology companies and other relevant stakeholders before finalising the framework, expected by the end of the third quarter. Officials also noted that international regulatory models—particularly from Europe—would be examined to align Omani standards with global best practices on child‑online protection.

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News developments

Kuwait: National Service Law Amended by New Decree

27/02/202627/02/2026
by Hannah Gutang

Kuwait has issued a new decree amending the national military service framework, updating eligibility rules, exemptions and procedural requirements.

Kuwait Decree‑Law No. 9/2026 introduced amendments to Kuwait Law No. 20/2015 on Military National Service. The Armed Forces said the update aims to resolve legislative and procedural gaps that had caused delays in processing cases and handling situations not covered under the original law. Under the amendments, national service will apply to all Kuwaiti males turning 18, starting with those born on 1 January 2012, while those born before that date are exempt. Any procedures taken in violation of this cutoff will be cancelled.

The amendments also ensure that employed conscripts retain their salaries, allowances and bonuses throughout their service, with the service period counted toward total employment years. Additional provisions include exempting an only son, extending the registration deadline from 60 to 180 days, and granting firefighters employed by Kuwait Oil Company the same exemptions as those given to the Kuwait Fire Force. The National Military Service Authority is now authorised to assign conscripts to the Armed Forces, the Ministry of Interior, the National Guard and the Kuwait Fire Force.

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News developments

Bahrain: Parliament Extends Social Insurance to Freelancers

27/02/202627/02/2026
by Hannah Gutang

Bahrain Moments, 19 February 2026: Bahrain’s Parliament has unanimously approved amendments extending mandatory social‑insurance coverage to freelancers and self‑employed workers.

The amendment updates Article 2 of Bahrain Decree-Law No. 24/1976 promulgating the Social Insurance Law, expanding compulsory coverage beyond traditional employment contracts to include self‑employed individuals and members of the liberal professions. The categories eligible for enrolment will be designated by ministerial decision and require approval from the Social Insurance Organisation’s board, ensuring a controlled regulatory rollout.

Lawmakers confirmed that penalties, funding mechanisms and implementation remain governed by existing statutory structures, noting the measure does not impose additional burdens on the state budget. The law takes effect upon publication in the Official Gazette.

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News developments

Lexis Middle East HR Alert – January 2026

24/02/202624/02/2026
by Tanya Jain

In this edition of Lexis Middle East HR Alert – January 2026, we examine the legal reforms, compliance priorities, and workplace trends shaping employment across the GCC. From wage protection system updates in the UAE and Saudi Arabia to new disability obligations in Qatar and evolving Emiratisation enforcement, this issue delivers concise, practical insight for HR professionals, legal advisers, and business leaders.

With expert commentary, regional news updates, case analysis, and practitioner perspectives, we provide the clarity needed to navigate regulatory change with confidence and stay ahead in a fast-moving employment landscape.

Stay informed, compliant, and connected with the developments shaping the future of HR in the region.

Happy reading!

This edition features a diverse range of content, including:

FEATURE: WAGING WAR ON WPS COMPLIANCE

Natalie Jones of Mischon de Reya LLP reviews recent changes to the UAE and Saudi wage protection systems and outlines the key compliance obligations for employers.

TREND SETTER: MENTAL HEALTH ABSENCE IN SAUDI

Fatima Al-Sabahi of Dentons explores employer and employee rights in cases involving mental health-related absences in Saudi Arabia.

NEWS ROUND-UP: COVERING RECENT KEY DEVELOPMENTS – REGION-WIDE

A summary of the latest HR and employment law updates, including the latest DIFC Courts Practice Direction on employment disputes and other significant HR updates.

IMMIGRATION FOCUS: RECENT GCC IMMIGRATION AND VISA CHANGES

Sponsored by Vialto Partners, this section reviews key immigration reforms and lessons from the UAE’s 2025 Emiratisation enforcement approach.

IMMIGRATION FOCUS: EMIRATISATION COMPLIANCE

Anir Chatterji and Gordon Barr reflect on 2025 Emiratisation trends and provide practical guidance for meeting 2026 requirements.

LAW CHANGES: NEW AND PROPOSED MENA LAWS

Sarit Thomas and Emma Higham assess the impact of Qatar Law No. 22/2025 on disabilities and the resulting employer compliance obligations.

CASE FOCUS

A review of Zia Ur Rehman v Forvis Mazars LLC [2025], a QICDRC ruling addressing costs considerations for litigants in person.

MOVES AND CHANGES

A regional overview of the latest executive movements, leadership appointments, and HR leadership changes across key industries.

Enrich your understanding of the HR landscape and stay up-to-date with the latest trends, cases, and policies through the newest issue of Lexis Middle East – HR Alert.

For all the latest industry updates and developments, opt for a free HR Alert subscription!

Want to learn more about Lexis® Middle East? Visit, https://www.lexis.ae/lexis-middle-east-law/.

Lexis Middle East HR Alert_January 2026

Have you read the Lexis® Middle East HR Alert – previous editions? Click the links below to access and read these editions.

Lexis Middle East HR Alert_May 2025

Lexis Middle East HR Alert_July 2025

Lexis Middle East HR Alert_January 2025

HR PROFILE: UNDER STARTER’S ORDERS

Arjenney Cakar shares how working on pre-opening projects strengthened her HR expertise and supports ongoing business growth.

IN-HOUSE PROFILE: PRACTITIONER PERSPECTIVE

Jenika Pankhania explains recent amendments to the ADGM data protection regulations and their implications for employers.

POLICY POINTERS: ANTI-BULLYING POLICY

Mary Rintu Raju provides a practical anti-bullying policy template to help organisations strengthen workplace standards.

News developments

UAE: VARA Designated as Competent Authority Under Corporate Tax Rules

19/02/202619/02/2026
by Hannah Gutang

The UAE Ministry of Finance has issued a ministerial decision designating Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority as a competent authority for specific qualifying activities under the federal corporate tax framework.

The Ministry of Finance announced Ministerial Decision No. 336/2025, which added the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority—established in Dubai under Dubai Law No. 4/2022 Regulating Virtual Assets in the Emirate of Dubai—to the definition of “competent authority” in Ministerial Decision No. 229/2025 on Qualifying and Excluded Activities for the Purposes of Federal Decree-Law No. 47/2022 on the Business and Corporate Taxation.

Under the update, VARA is recognised as a competent authority for qualifying activities linked to fund management, wealth management and investment‑management services, bringing virtual‑asset supervision into alignment with the broader corporate‑tax framework. The Ministry stated that the decision formed part of efforts to enhance clarity, certainty and regulatory alignment across the UAE’s financial system, supporting its strategic position as a global investment and financial hub.

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