UAE Archives - Page 2 of 101 - LexisNexis Middle East

Upcoming Trends and Risks in Arbitration in the UAE and DIFC | 9 April 2026 | 10 AM to 12 PM GST | Live Zoom Webinar

27/02/2026
by Maristela Albores

Trends and Risks in Arbitration in the UAE and DIFC | 9 April 2026 | 10 AM to 12 PM GST | Live Zoom Webinar
09/04/2026
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM SEFORMENA-D

Join LexisNexis Middle East and DIFC Academy for a focused, expert-led session on trends and risks in arbitration across the UAE and the DIFC. This 2-hour CLPD Accredited course is designed to help legal professionals in the Middle East stay ahead of judicial and legislative developments shaping the regional arbitration landscape.

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.

For more news and content, try Lexis Middle East. Click on lexis.ae/demo to begin your free trial of Lexis® Middle East platform.

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Upcoming 2026 LexisNexis Middle East Legal Awards | 21 May 2025 | 7 PM to 11 PM

25/02/202627/02/2026
by Malini Dean

2026 LexisNexis Middle East Legal Awards | 21 May 2025 | 7 PM to 11 PM
21/05/2026 - 15/06/2026
7:00 PM - 11:00 PM SEEVENTMENA

BECOME A SPONSOR BOOK YOUR SEAT LexisNexis Middle East proudly presents the 2nd edition of the LexisNexis Middle East Legal Awards. This prestigious event is set to honour the outstanding accomplishments, revolutionary innovations, and significant contributions made by legal professionals towards advancing the Rule of Law in the Middle East. Date: 21 May 2026 (more…)

Upcoming Managing the Risks of Joint Ventures in the Construction Industry | 31 March 2026 | 10 AM to 12 PM GST | Live Zoom Webinar

24/02/202625/02/2026
by Maristela Albores

Managing the Risks of Joint Ventures in the Construction Industry | 31 March 2026 | 10 AM to 12 PM GST | Live Zoom Webinar
31/03/2026
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM SEFORMENA-D

Join LexisNexis Middle East, in partnership with DIFC Academy, for a focused, expert-led session on managing and mitigating risks in construction joint ventures. This 2-hour CLPD-certified workshop is designed for legal and construction professionals operating in the UAE and GCC who advise on, structure, or manage joint venture arrangements.

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.

For more news and content, try Lexis Middle East. Click on lexis.ae/demo to begin your free trial of Lexis® Middle East platform.

You can also explore the legal landscape by subscribing to our Weekly Newsletter.

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

News developments

Sharjah: Emirate Launches Digital Donation Platforms

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

Gulf News, 17 February 2026: Sharjah authorities introduced new digital donation platforms aimed at streamlining charitable contributions and strengthening organised giving during Ramadan.

The organisation unveiled a series of initiatives aimed at modernising the donation process and strengthening the culture of charity. According to the Head of the Resources and Investment Sector, the strategy focused on providing secure and user‑friendly channels for contributions. Among the key measures is the deployment of 18 smart donation screens across major shopping malls, offering multiple electronic payment options such as Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, QR code scanning and credit cards. These digital platforms replace traditional collection methods with faster and more secure alternatives.

In parallel with technological upgrades, the charity confirmed that 100 donation boxes will be distributed in mosques and public locations during Friday prayers, Taraweeh and Qiyam Al Lail. To ensure proper oversight, 100 vetted volunteers have been assigned to supervise collection activities during peak prayer times. Additionally, 54 customer‑service staff will be stationed at shopping centres and government facilities to receive contributions directly from donors. The charity also placed 6,729 small donation boxes in grocery stores across Sharjah to increase community participation and facilitate everyday giving.

For more news and content, try Lexis Middle East. Click on lexis.ae/demo to begin your free trial of Lexis® Middle East platform.

You can also explore the legal landscape by subscribing to our Weekly Newsletter.

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

News developments

Dubai: New Inspection Standards for Delivery‑Bike Registration

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

Khaleej Times, 14 February 2026: Dubai has introduced new technical inspection standards allowing delivery motorcycles to renew registration for an extra operational year, strengthening safety oversight and regulatory governance in the fast‑growing sector.

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced that delivery bikes may now extend their operational life to a fifth year, provided they pass newly introduced inspection standards developed in line with global guidelines. The inspection is optional but becomes necessary for any company seeking to renew bike registration beyond the existing four‑year limit. Service access is available through designated RTA inspection centres or via the RTA website under the “Delivery Bikes Operational Life Extension” service.

The initiative supports rider safety, enhances service quality, reduces operating costs, and improves operational efficiency across an expanding delivery market. The programme forms part of wider sector reforms, including dedicated stations for riders, designated delivery‑bike lanes, and the introduction of yellow number plates to improve visibility. Additional measures such as charging stations and rest areas were also introduced to reduce rider fatigue and advance sustainable operations.

Delivery companies can complete the renewal process by logging into their corporate accounts, selecting the relevant service, identifying bikes that have reached maximum age, and completing inspections at authorised centres.

For more news and content, try Lexis Middle East. Click on lexis.ae/demo to begin your free trial of Lexis® Middle East platform.

You can also explore the legal landscape by subscribing to our Weekly Newsletter.

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

News developments

Ajman: Institution Upgrades Boost Rehabilitation Services for Inmates

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

Gulf News, 17 February 2026: Ajman’s Correctional and Rehabilitation Institution implemented new development projects to strengthen inmate rehabilitation, improve living conditions, and enhance service delivery across the facility.

Senior officials reviewed multiple upgrades introduced to advance welfare and reintegration programmes. These included establishing a nursery for inmates’ children and upgrading essential medical units such as the dental clinic, medical laboratory, and pharmacy. Authorities also expanded vocational workshops and training facilities designed to equip inmates with practical skills for reintegration after release.

The inspection covered several departments, including inmate affairs, security operations, rehabilitation services, and both male and female accommodation wards. Officials assessed ongoing rehabilitation programmes and commended staff for maintaining high service standards while safeguarding inmates’ rights and well‑being.

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You can also explore the legal landscape by subscribing to our Weekly Newsletter.

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News developments

Abu Dhabi: Judiciary Adopts Facial Recognition to Replace Digital Signatures

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

Gulf News, 17 February 2026: The Abu Dhabi Judicial Department introduced a new facial‑recognition system to authenticate legal transactions, replacing traditional digital signatures in a first‑of‑its‑kind rollout for the region.

Authorities confirmed that the initial phase of the project would apply to power of attorney procedures for lawyers, allowing approvals to be completed through smart devices without requiring a digital signature. The system uses encrypted biometric data and real‑time verification against official government records to ensure a high level of identity security.

The Judicial Department plans to gradually expand the use of facial recognition to notary and authentication services in upcoming phases.

For more news and content, try Lexis Middle East. Click on lexis.ae/demo to begin your free trial of Lexis® Middle East platform.

You can also explore the legal landscape by subscribing to our Weekly Newsletter.

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