United Arab Emirates Archives - Page 2 of 72

Dubai: Regulatory Framework Introduced for Virtual Asset Derivatives Trading

02/04/202602/04/2026
by Hannah Gutang

Dubai establishes a regulatory framework governing the trading of exchange‑traded derivatives linked to virtual assets.

The Dubai Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority introduces a comprehensive regulatory framework for exchange‑traded derivatives in virtual assets, setting out a dedicated and enforceable regime under Version 2.1 of its Exchange Services Rulebook. The framework allows licensed Virtual Asset Service Providers to offer derivatives products within a clearly defined regulatory perimeter, subject to explicit authorisation and compliance requirements.

According to VARA, the framework imposes binding obligations covering client suitability and classification, margin and leverage controls, segregation of client assets, enhanced disclosure requirements and regulatory intervention powers. The measures are intended to address the higher risks associated with derivatives trading and to safeguard market integrity as demand for complex virtual asset products grows.

The updated rulebook takes immediate effect and applies to all VARA‑licensed exchanges operating within Dubai, reflecting the emirate’s approach of aligning innovation in the virtual‑assets sector with robust governance and oversight.

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News developments

Ajman: New Taxi Fare Takes Effect from April 2026

02/04/202602/04/2026
by Hannah Gutang

Khaleej Times, 31 March 2026: Ajman introduces a revised taxi fare structure starting April 2026 as part of updates to local transport services.

Ajman authorities announce a new taxi fare structure that comes into force from April 2026, adjusting starting fares and per‑kilometre charges for taxi services across the emirate. The update applies to all licensed taxis operating within Ajman and reflects changes in operational costs and service regulation.

According to the announcement, the revised tariff sets a new base fare for trips and updates distance‑based pricing, with fares calculated using updated digital meters installed in taxis. Officials state that the changes aim to ensure service sustainability while maintaining reasonable pricing for passengers.

Transport authorities confirm that fare details are displayed inside taxis and through official channels, and drivers are required to adhere strictly to the approved rates.

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News developments

Abu Dhabi: New Real Estate Rules Tighten Governance and Investor Protection

02/04/202602/04/2026
by Hannah Gutang

Gulf News, 28 March 2026: Abu Dhabi has issued a new package of regulatory decisions to strengthen governance across its real estate sector, signalling a further tightening of legal oversight aimed at boosting transparency, investor confidence, and market stability.

The Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) announced four administrative decisions designed to implement Abu Dhabi Law No. 3/2015 Concerning the Regulation of the Real Estate Sector in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi which governs real estate activities in the emirate. The measures were introduced to respond to market growth and to align regulatory practices with international standards.

The decisions addressed key stages of real estate development and management. They imposed stricter controls on withdrawals from escrow accounts, limiting disbursements before projects reach 20% completion in order to safeguard purchasers’ funds. They also clarified ownership rights and management responsibilities in jointly owned properties, ensuring the sustainable operation of shared facilities and common areas.

Further measures standardised the bylaws and operational procedures of owners’ committees, strengthening community participation and governance in residential developments. In addition, the decisions set clear compensation ratios, refund periods, and procedures for buyers affected by cancelled off‑plan projects, balancing the legal rights of purchasers and developers when units are resold.

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News developments

UAE: Expired‑Visa Residents Allowed to Return During Crisis

26/03/202626/03/2026
by Hannah Gutang

Gulf News, 24 March 2026: UAE authorities have permitted residents stranded abroad to re‑enter the country even if their residency visas had expired, as part of crisis‑response measures easing immigration procedures.

According to the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai, the policy formed part of temporary leniency measures allowing re‑entry without penalties, while also enabling individuals in violation of residency rules to exit the UAE without complications.

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News developments

Fujairah: Man Arrested for Filming for Foreign Media Without a Permit

25/03/202625/03/2026
by Tanya Jain

Khaleej Times, 17 March 2026: Authorities in Fujairah have arrested a man who trespassed and filmed in restricted areas without obtaining the necessary permits.

The authorities stated that he had secretly entered the sites before being detected and arrested. During questioning, it was revealed that he worked for a media organisation; but did not have any authorisation permitting him to access the locations or conduct filming there. It was confirmed that the accused violated applicable laws and regulations by filming without obtaining official approvals, in breach of the filming bans which were enforced in those areas. The recorded footage had been sent electronically to a news organisation in London without official authorisation.

UAE laws criminalise entering or being present in restricted areas without a permit, even if no other act takes place. Taking photographs, preparing maps, recording coordinates, or using any other means of documentation in violation of prohibitions issued by the competent authorities is also prohibited.

The UAE Public Prosecution have stressed the importance of adhering to applicable laws and regulations and obtaining prior official permits before undertaking any filming particularly in sensitive or restricted locations.

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News developments

UAE: Authorities Confirm Commitment to Economic Openness

25/03/202625/03/2026
by Tanya Jain

Khaleej Times, 19 March 2026: Authorities in Dubai have shared a fact check statement refuting reports claiming the UAE had introduced strict laws to prevent foreign investors from withdrawing their capital and leaving the Emirate.

The false reports had alleged that the measures included freezing bank accounts and imposing restrictions on money transfers and capital movement in order to retain investors. Dubai media office made it clear that the UAE economy was strong, and Dubai would continue to remain a global economic hub and magnet for investors. The UAE Ministry of Economy and Tourism had denied the reports which circulated on social media on imposing restrictions on the movement of capital or preventing foreign investors from transferring or managing their funds in line with the applicable laws and regulations.

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News developments

Dubai: Customs Announce Green Corridor with Oman

25/03/202626/03/2026
by Tanya Jain

Khaleej Times, 18 March 2026: Dubai Customs have announced a ‘Green Corridor’ between the emirate and Oman for maritime and air shipments.

Shipments will now be diverted through Omani ports to Dubai through a streamlined route.

The procedure will work seamlessly with transit declarations first being submitted in Oman, under fast customs procedures, before the shipment is transferred through the Green Corridor.

Then, the shipping agent’s seal will be applied to Green Corridor containers, verifying the integrity of the goods across inter-border ports until arrival in Dubai. Once at the Hatta Border Crossing, the cargo manifest and bill of lading will be submitted. Finally, shipments will proceed to customs clearance at the relevant centres.

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News developments

UAE: Expired residency holders abroad allowed to return without entry permit

17/03/202617/03/2026
by Tanya Jain

Qatar Peninsula, 12 March 2026: The UAE has introduced a temporary measure allowing expatriate residents whose residency visas expired while they were outside the country to return without obtaining a new entry permit.

According to the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), the decision applies to residents who were unable to return due to current regional conditions, including airspace closures and suspended flights. The exemption is valid from 28 February to 31 March 2026.

Eligible residents may re‑enter the UAE during this period without applying for a fresh entry permit, easing travel disruptions caused by the ongoing regional security situation.

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News developments

UAE: Police crackdown on explosive‑sound modified vehicles

17/03/202617/03/2026
by Tanya Jain

Khaleej Times, 13 March 2026: Police across the UAE have intensified enforcement against motorists using illegally modified vehicles that generate explosion‑like engine sounds, following late‑night disturbances reported in residential neighbourhoods.

Authorities stated that the alarming noises — often mistaken for blasts amid heightened regional tensions — were caused by teenagers and young drivers revving engines or using exhaust systems designed to create deliberate “backfire” effects. Police stressed there is no security threat, reaffirming that the UAE remains safe and closely monitored by security agencies.

Residents in Dubai and Sharjah reported sudden loud bursts at night, prompting police to increase patrols and deploy advanced monitoring systems. Major General Saif Muhair Al Mazrouei of Dubai Police said enforcement campaigns target violations such as excessive vehicle noise and unauthorised modifications to “ensure the comfort and tranquillity of residents.”

Sharjah Police also launched targeted inspections and set up checkpoints to detect illegally modified vehicles. Brigadier Khalifa Al Khassouni emphasised that the measures are intended to reassure communities, particularly during a period of heightened public sensitivity to sudden loud sounds.

Motorists driving excessively noisy vehicles face a Dh2,000 fine, 12 black points and possible vehicle impoundment. Additional penalties, including confiscation and release fees up to Dh10,000, apply to vehicles modified without authorisation.

Police urged parents to monitor young drivers and encouraged residents to report reckless behaviour through official channels. Authorities reiterated that the enforcement drive aims to maintain calm, protect public peace and reinforce the UAE’s strong safety environment during ongoing regional developments.

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News developments

Lexis Middle East Gulf Tax – Spring 2026 Edition

12/03/202612/03/2026
by Tanya Jain

Brought to You by Tolley+ Middle East

In this Spring 2026 edition of Lexis Middle East Gulf Tax, we unpack the latest tax reforms, regulatory updates, and compliance priorities shaping corporate strategy across the GCC. From sweeping amendments to UAE tax procedure laws to the re‑engineering of Saudi Arabia’s White Land regime, this issue delivers clear, practical insights for tax leaders, finance professionals, and advisers navigating an increasingly complex fiscal landscape.
With expert commentary, regional news coverage, case-focused analysis, and in‑depth practitioner perspectives, this edition equips businesses with the clarity needed to stay compliant, mitigate risk, and anticipate regulatory change.

Stay informed, proactive, and aligned with the fast‑evolving tax frameworks across the Middle East.

FEATURE: PAYBACK TIME – UAE TAX REFUNDS & AUDITS

Keith Donegan and Luis Miguel Alonso of KPMG Middle East break down the major amendments introduced by Federal Decree‑Law No. 17/2025, including new five‑year refund deadlines, audit windows, transitional rules, and the expanded statute of limitations.

FEATURE: WHITE LAND – STILL TAX?

Austin Judson of CMS analyses the transformation of Saudi Arabia’s White Land regime from “tax” to “fee” and explains how new rates, valuation rules, and development criteria impact landowners, developers, and investors.

WHAT’S NEW: VAT ANTI‑FRAUD MEASURES

A look at the UAE’s expanded Reverse Charge Mechanism for metal scrap and other anti‑fraud efforts, detailing compliance steps for suppliers, declaration requirements, and cash‑flow implications.

TAX NEWS ROUND-UP

A focused summary of the latest tax treaty updates and regulatory developments across the Gulf, offering essential insights for professionals navigating multi-jurisdictional tax environments.

PRACTICAL FOCUS: TAXATION OF GAMING & GAMBLING IN THE UAE

Habib Al Mulla & Partners explore the UAE’s emerging regulated gaming sector and its Corporate Tax implications, from taxable income and deductibility rules to transfer pricing, Free Zone structures, and foreign tax credit considerations.

TAX PROFESSIONAL PROFILE: PHARMACEUTICALS

Amedeo Aragona of Novartis discusses the evolving tax landscape in the Middle East, audit pressures, technology-driven changes, sector‑specific compliance priorities, and the growing impact of transfer pricing and APAs. With added practitioner insight from MMJS Consulting on transfer pricing complexities in GCC pharmaceutical supply chains.

ANY QUESTIONS? VAT & DECEASED PERSONS IN BAHRAIN

A clear guide to the VAT consequences when a registered individual passes away from deregistration timelines to liability handling, inheritance documentation, and compliance responsibilities of heirs.

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Lexis Middle Easr Gulf Tax_Spring 2026_ePDF

Have you read the Lexis® Middle East Gulf Tax – Past editions? Click the links below to access them.

Lexis Middle East Gulf Tax | Summer 2025

Lexis Middle East Gulf Tax | Spring 2025

Lexis Middle East Gulf Tax | Autumn 2024

Lexis Middle East Gulf Tax | Summer 2024