LexisNexis Middle East

Qatar: MoPH Intensifies Monitoring of Markets to Ensure Food Safety

08/08/202408/08/2024
by Hannah Gutang

The Peninsula, 4 August 2024: The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) has ramped up its monitoring efforts in local markets to ensure the safety of imported and locally produced food products.

During the first half of 2024, the ministry inspected 60,520 shipments of imported food, verifying their compliance with relevant technical standards.

A total of 1,168,695,000 kg of imported food met these standards, while 985,676 kg of non-compliant food were destroyed, and 211 shipments were re-exported.

The Food Safety Department has issued 155 export and re-export certificates, 104 certificates for food product destruction, and 48 certificates for re-inspection of food items.

It processed 625 requests for food item destruction and 102 requests for re-analysis of food products.

The ministry handled 3,119 requests for final product clearance and conducted 147 reviews on the registration of local food establishments.

In the first half of the year, 1,279 food producers were registered, 1,734 certificates were issued to food handlers, and 766 food handler permits were granted.

To ensure compliance with laws, standards, and technical requirements, MoPH inspected 3,221 local food establishments.

A total of 7,022 samples from imported foods at the country’s ports and 10,064 samples from local establishments were analysed for safety and quality.

The “Watheq” electronic food safety system approved 21,457 food items, ensuring they met the necessary standards.

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News developments

Oman: More Services Added to Oman Business Platform

08/08/202408/08/2024
by Hannah Gutang

Shabiba, 28 July 2024: The Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion Ministry has unveiled a series of enhancements and new facilities for investors and businesses through the Oman Business Platform.

These improvements aim to streamline processes, reduce bureaucracy, and create a more conducive environment for investment in Oman.

Among the key updates are simplified procedures for commercial registration services, including updating commercial register data and transferring ownership.

The ministry has also introduced improvements to license applications and registration processes for companies subject to the Foreign Capital Investment Law.

Notably, the ministry has reduced the number of required documents and prerequisites, contributing to a more user-friendly experience and enabling faster and more efficient transaction completion.

These measures are expected to significantly support the investment climate in Oman, making it more attractive for both local and foreign investors.

The ministry’s efforts align with the Oman’s broader strategy to diversify its economy and attract investments across various sectors.

By improving the ease of doing business and providing a supportive regulatory framework, Oman aims to position itself as a preferred destination for businesses seeking to establish or expand their operations in the region.

Investors and entrepreneurs can look forward to a streamlined and efficient process through the Oman Business Platform, enabling them to focus on their core business activities while benefiting from the government’s commitment to encourage a conducive investment environment.

For the full story, click here.

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News developments

Kuwait: MoCI to Tackle Fraud in Precious Metal

08/08/202408/08/2024
by Hannah Gutang

Arab Times, 1 August 2024: The Ministry of Commerce and Industry’s (MoCI’s) Undersecretary has issued a decision to form a joint working team between the Precious Metals Department and the Commercial Control Department to reduce the phenomenon of fraud in precious metals.

This team is headed by the Commercial Control Department’s Director, with a deputy and nine ministry employees as members.

The decision has defined the team’s responsibilities, which include conducting joint inspection tours between the two departments at gold and precious metal jewelry shops and workshops to combat commercial fraud.

The team’s activities will continue over three months from the date of the decision’s issuance.

The Commercial Control Inspection Teams at the Fish Market Centre in the eastern region affiliated with MoCI continue their efforts and inspection campaigns to monitor the performance of offices selling imported fish.

One of the campaigns had resulted in the closure of an office after the office owner started the auction without obtaining the approval of the ministry’s inspectors, violating the regulations and laws in force.

The inspection teams have also conducted several tours of school clothing stores in Hawally, resulting in the issuance of seven citations for various violations such as lack of price tags and absence of country of origin labels.

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News developments

Dubai: Procedures for Implementing Data Centres Economy Approved

08/08/202408/08/2024
by Hannah Gutang

Mubasher, 31 July 2024: Dubai Digital, in collaboration with key public and private sector partners, has taken steps to implement the strategic vision for the data centre economy in Dubai, previously approved by the Executive Council.

This initiative aligns with the Dubai Digital Strategy, aimed at positioning the emirate as a global model for digital transformation.

Dubai Digital is collaborating with the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority, Digital Government, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, Dubai Municipality, the General Secretariat of the Executive Council, and the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism.

Together, they are coordinating measures to enhance Dubai’s leadership and future-readiness in the data centre economy.

The strategic vision aims to establish Dubai as a leading destination for sustainable data centres, equipped to operate using cutting-edge artificial intelligence technology.

Adopting this vision will foster a comprehensive integration and coordination among various entities operating in this field, including the Dubai Digital Authority, Department of Economy and Tourism, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, Telecommunications Regulatory Authority, Digital Government, and non-governmental organisations.

By embracing this strategic vision, Dubai is paving the way for a dynamic and integrated ecosystem that will drive innovation and position the emirate as a global hub for data centre operations and advanced technology.

For the full story, click here.

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News developments

UAE: Unveils First Licensed Lottery Operation, Establishes Gaming Regulatory Framework

02/08/202402/08/2024
by Hannah Gutang

Khaleej Times, 29 July 2024: The UAE has announced the launch of its first licensed lottery operation.

This is significant milestone in the establishment of a comprehensive regulatory framework for commercial gaming activities in the country.

The General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA), a federal entity, has unveiled the regulatory framework designed to protect consumers by ensuring fairness and transparency across all licensed commercial gaming activities, including lotteries.

The GCGRA emphasised that any unlicensed commercial gaming operations in the UAE are illegal for both operators and players, highlighting the importance of the newly established regulatory framework.

The Game LLC, a commercial gaming operator based in Abu Dhabi, has been granted the first license to operate under the banner of the ‘UAE Lottery’.

The company specialises in game development, lottery operations, and gaming-related content, promising to offer a diverse range of lottery and other games catering to various player interests and financial preferences.

However, specific details about the types of games to be offered have not been disclosed yet.

According to the GCGRA, commercial gaming refers to any game of chance or combination of chance and skill where money or valuable items are wagered for the purpose of winning.

This definition includes gaming machines, internet gaming, electronic skill-based games, lottery games, event wagering (including bets placed on sporting events or horse racing), and any other form of commercial gaming regulated and licensed by the GCGRA.

Engaging in, operating, or facilitating commercial gaming activities without a valid license is unlawful and will result in legal action, including criminal penalties.

Participating as a player in activities offered by unlicensed operators, whether online or at a physical venue, is also illegal and may subject individuals to severe penalties.

The GCGRA has emphasised the importance of responsible gaming practices, enforcing safeguards across every aspect of the gaming experience, from game design to marketing strategies and the provision of player support services.

The authority aims to minimise the potential adverse consequences of excessive gaming for individuals and society, promoting commercial gaming as an entertainment and leisure activity rather than a means to generate income or make money.

With the establishment of the regulatory framework and the licensing of the UAE’s first lottery operator, the GCGRA aims to create a safe and transparent environment for commercial gaming activities in the country, while also addressing potential risks associated with unlicensed operations.

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News developments

Saudi Arabia: Allows 100% Foreign Ownership in Most Business Sectors

02/08/202402/08/2024
by Hannah Gutang

The Saudi Vice Minister of Commerce and CEO of the National Competitiveness Centre (NCC) noted that the Kingdom allows 100% foreign ownership in most business sectors, a significant factor in attracting international investment.

This was highlighted during the Saudi-Korean Business Forum, where the Commerce Minister has emphasised that Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 has led to substantial economic diversification, fostering sustainable and inclusive growth, and encouraging innovation across various business sectors.

The forum, attended by the Saudi Ambassador to Korea and approximately 400 representatives from both public and private sectors, has highlighted the strategic trade relations between Saudi Arabia and Korea.

The Commerce Minister highlighted the collaborative efforts to boost economic prosperity, noting that trade volume between the two nations reached $35 billion from 2019 to 2023. Additionally, 174 commercial records were issued to Korean companies up to last April.

The Korean Minister of Trade emphasised the expanding Saudi-Korean economic and trade partnership across vital sectors such as automotive and shipbuilding, as well as emerging areas like AI, data centres, and smart cities.

He also noted the growth in trade services and stressed that the Korea-GCC Free Trade Agreement would elevate economic cooperation to a new level.

The NCC CEO outlined significant reforms aimed at boosting the Kingdom’s competitiveness.

She has highlighted the positive transformations in the Saudi economy and business environment.

Notably, 820 economic reforms have been implemented by 60 government agencies since 2016 in nine key areas, with 1,200 laws and regulations issued and updated to strengthen the legal framework.

The NCC CEO has also emphasised the digitisation of government services, which has reached 97%, and the activation of virtual commercial court sessions at a 99% rate, significantly improving litigation efficiency.

She has also mentioned that the establishment of the Saudi Business Centre has streamlined business licensing requirements by 55%.

The forum, organised by the NCC, the Federation of Saudi Chambers of Commerce, and the Korean Chamber of Commerce and Industry, aimed to expand economic partnership opportunities between the two nations.

It included two dialogue sessions: “Innovation and Technology,” featuring representatives from the Ministry of Investment, Monshaat, SDAIA, and Korean companies Naver and Rebellions, which discussed the role of government initiatives in promoting innovation and technology adoption.

The second session, “Advanced Manufacturing and Infrastructure,” was attended by representatives from various ministries and institutes, and tackled key developing sectors in advanced manufacturing and the challenges and opportunities posed by digital transformation in infrastructure development.

Nine agreements were signed by companies from both sides, marking a successful conclusion to the forum.

The event was held on the second day of the Saudi delegation’s visit to Korea from 29 July 2024 to 31 July 2024.

It was preceded by meetings between the Commerce Minister and Korea’s Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy, and Minister of Trade, where discussions focused on strengthening trade relations and cooperation in global trade issues, particularly in removing trade barriers and increasing exports.

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News developments

Qatar: Central Bank Issues DTL Guideline

01/08/202401/08/2024
by Hannah Gutang

Qatar Tribune, 26 July 2024: In line with Qatar’s Third Financial Sector Strategy, FinTech Strategy, and Qatar Central Bank’s commitment to regulating and developing the financial sector, the bank has issued the “Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) Guideline”.

This guideline aims to establish a regulatory framework for financial institutions to develop smart solutions using DLT.

DLT provides a transparent and secure platform for recording transactions, enabling instant settlement and reducing the need for intermediaries.

Its benefits include increased efficiency, lower costs, enhanced transparency, and improved security, ultimately streamlining processes and fostering greater trust in the financial sector.

Qatar Central Bank has affirmed its ongoing efforts to create a favourable environment for the financial technology sector in the country.

This guideline supports the financial sector’s development, aligning with Qatar’s Third National Development Strategy, the final stage towards achieving Qatar National Vision 2030.

The vision aims to build a digital economy while stimulating widespread technology adoption and encouraging technological innovations, including in the financial sector.

The guideline is available on Qatar Central Bank’s official website.

Earlier, Qatar Central Bank had launched a national campaign, “Stay Aware,” in cooperation with the Ministry of Interior, National Cybersecurity Agency, and Qatar Financial Center Regulatory Authority.

The campaign aims to enhance awareness of cybersecurity risks and build a cyber-resilient society.

The campaign seeks to spread awareness among the public about the importance of data privacy and the dangers of financial fraud, highlighting cyber threats arising from rapid technological and digital development.

It identifies the main channels of cyber fraud, such as phone calls, social media, emails, SMS messages, and URL links, and provides the public with best practices and practical strategies to avoid falling victim to such threats.

Qatar Central Bank and its partners in this campaign emphasise the vital role of ongoing awareness efforts in building a safer electronic society capable of responding to cyber threats.

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News developments

Oman: FSA Implements Unified Life Insurance Policy for Borrowers

01/08/202401/08/2024
by Hannah Gutang

Atheer, 25 July 2024: The Financial Services Authority (FSA) has confirmed the implementation of a new unified template for life insurance policies for borrowers.

This policy aims to standardise the terms and provisions governing the contractual relationship between borrowers, banks, and insurance companies.

Effective 1 June 2024, all parties involved in the insurance relationship, including insurance companies, banks, and borrowers, are required to comply to the provisions outlined in Oman Capital Market Authority Decision No. H/4/2024.

The FSA has emphasised the importance of compliance with the new policy.

The CEO of the Financial Services Authority had previously issued a decision to introduce the new unified template for life insurance policies for borrowers, establishing a legal framework to regulate the contractual relationship between the borrower, the bank, and the insurance company.

The document provides a unified framework for the terms and conditions of insurance coverage contracts offered by insurance companies to borrowers from financial institutions.

In the event of death or permanent total disability, the insurance company will bear the remaining balance of the loan, ensuring financial protection for the borrower and their heirs.

One of the key features of the document is that it guarantees the protection of the rights of life insurance policyholders for borrowers by specifying the basic and optional benefits of insurance coverage.

This initiative enhances the social safety net for citizens and residents in Oman by facilitating access to appropriate financing while providing protection for the borrower and their beneficiaries.

The document also states that insurance companies cannot reject a claim on the pretext of non-disclosure of any diseases after four years from the policy’s effective date.

The implementation of the unified life insurance policy for borrowers is expected to bring transparency, standardisation, and enhanced protection for all parties involved in the insurance relationship.

For the full story, click here.

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News developments

Kuwait: Minister Takes Firm Action Against Academic Fraud

01/08/202401/08/2024
by Hannah Gutang

Arab Times, 25 July 2024: In line with the directives of the Amir to combat corruption and promote national progress, the Education Minister and Higher Education and Scientific Research Minister has taken decisive steps to address academic fraud.

The minister has announced the approval of recommendations from the investigation committee within the Higher Education Ministry, resulting in the referral of several post-secondary school certificates to the Public Prosecution.

This second batch of referrals involves documents that were found to be falsified, with altered data to secure certificate equivalency.

The minister has emphasised that this action is part of a series of measures by the ministry to enforce the law and uphold the integrity of education.

They have revealed that additional groups will be referred to the Public Prosecution in the near future as the ministry continues to take all necessary steps to protect the reputation and status of education in the country.

The minister has reiterated the commitment to ongoing reform and the fight against corruption, stating that efforts to address forged academic certificates will be rigorous and unwavering.

They have also assured that there will be no leniency or exceptions for those involved in academic fraud, as addressing this issue is seen as both a national and religious duty, as well as a security mission.

The minister has stressed the importance of creating a transparent and just environment that provides equal opportunities for all and strengthens trust in national institutions.

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News developments

Dubai: Smart Vehicles to Detect Violations Around Metro, Tram networks

01/08/202401/08/2024
by Hannah Gutang

Khaleej Times, 30 July 2024: The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has launched the trial operation of these vehicles that are equipped with cameras and use advanced intelligence systems.

‘Smart’ inspection vehicles will now monitor detect violations, restricted activities and damages within Dubai Metro and Tram networks.

They will detect rail right-of-way areas.

The director of Rail Right of Way, has stated the smart vehicles will help protect Dubai’s rail infrastructure.

This technology will not only improve the efficiency of our inspections but also help us quickly identify and address any issues, ensuring the safety and reliability of our rail services.

The smart inspection vehicle uses artificial intelligence to keep up with rail network advancements.

The initiative aims to achieve full coverage of inspection areas, double the speed of preparing reports, and ensure the reliability of outputs.

It also seeks to reduce human errors in the inspection process and provide solid support for making well-informed decisions.

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