United Arab Emirates Archives - Page 9 of 65

Abu Dhabi: Introduces Comprehensive Maritime Safety Regulations

18/07/202518/07/2025
by Hannah Gutang

Gulf News, 12 July 2025: Abu Dhabi’s Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) has unveiled new maritime safety regulations to govern the emirate’s extensive waterways, spanning 45,000 square kilometres and featuring a 2,400-kilometre coastline.

The “Regulatory Bylaw for Maritime Safety” establishes mandatory standards for licensing, operations, and environmental protection across Abu Dhabi’s waters, including its 230 islands.

Abu Dhabi Maritime, working alongside the Integrated Transport Centre, will oversee the implementation of the new framework. Their responsibilities include conducting vessel inspections, managing wreck removal, monitoring infrastructure, and maintaining navigational aids.

The regulations introduce a new fee structure covering licenses, permits, and inspections. A system of financial penalties will be imposed for violations, including unsafe conduct, environmental infractions, and breaches of navigation rules.

Under the new framework, maritime stakeholders must comply with specific requirements regarding:

Operational conduct
Licensing procedures
Environmental protection measures
Emergency response protocols

The implementing body, Abu Dhabi Maritime, will provide maritime users with access to relevant legislation, codes of practice, and guidelines. The organisation will also deliver information services covering tidal conditions and weather forecasts.

These regulations will apply to both commercial and recreational waterway users across the emirate’s maritime jurisdiction, establishing unified standards for all vessel operations and water-based activities.

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News developments

UAE: New Media Legislation Enforces Strict Penalties Across Media Activities

10/07/202518/07/2025
by Hannah Gutang

Khaleej Times, 3 July 2025: The UAE enforced a new media law designed to regulate media activities, establishing stringent penalties that escalate to fines as high as Dh1 million for violations such as disrespecting religious beliefs and operating without proper licensing.

The law imposes penalties up to Dh1,000,000 for insulting religious beliefs and up to Dh100,000 for any media content violating public morals or spreading destructive ideas. Further fines up to Dh150,000 apply to inciting crimes like murder, rape, or drug abuse.

Disrespecting the UAE’s ruling system, national symbols, or state institutions incurs fines between Dh50,000 and Dh500,000, and content undermining national unity or foreign relations leads to fines up to Dh250,000.

Operating without a licence incurs penalties ranging from Dh10,000 for first-time offences to Dh40,000 for repeat violations. Similar fines apply to expired licences and unapproved changes to licensing conditions.

First-time dissemination of false information attracts a fine of Dh5,000, doubling upon repetition. Organising events like book fairs without permits draws fines of Dh40,000, incrementally increased for repeated offences.

Finally, if a foreign correspondent works without a licence they will receive written warnings, and repeat offences will lead to fines starting at Dh10,000.

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News developments

Sharjah: SEWA Introduces Automatic Service Connection System

10/07/202510/07/2025
by Hannah Gutang

Gulf Today, 6 July 2025: The Sharjah Electricity, Water, and Gas Authority (SEWA) and the Sharjah Municipality have launched an innovative electronic linkage system to facilitate automatic service connections.

This system activation follows the authentication of rental contracts by the Sharjah Municipality, which integrates into SEWA’s services seamlessly. These include the automatic closure of accounts once a clearance certificate is provided by the Sharjah Municipality.

As part of this new system, on authenticating a rental contract, new subscribers receive a text message indicating the required deposit. Once this deposit is paid, services are automatically connected, eliminating the need for any further subscriber intervention.

This will simplify new tenants’ access to essential utilities.

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News developments

Dubai: New First-Time Property Buyer Incentives Unveiled

10/07/202510/07/2025
by Hannah Gutang

Gulf Today, 2 July 2025: Dubai Land Department (DLD) has launched a “First Property Ownership” programme, targeting UAE citizens and residents to facilitate property ownership.

The legal framework of the programme introduces substantial incentives for first-time property buyers. It extends credit facilities up to 18 years and allows the registration fee of 4% with the DLD to be paid in instalments. Real estate developers involved in the scheme are offering significant price reductions, lowering property costs by up to 10% below the market rate for both ready and off-plan properties.

Eligibility criteria are that applicants must be UAE residents aged 18 or older, who do not own any freehold residential property in Dubai, and wish to purchase properties valued at up to Dhs5 million. The programme applies a one-time eligibility and waives rental restrictions for long-term investments.

The programme enforces legal obligations by integrating exemptions and facilitating financial processes within established legal requirements. It prioritises access to new project units, offers preferential rates, and provides interest-free registration fee payment options through credit cards and competitive financing offers with reduced interest and fees.

Applications are subject to review, and eligible participants are added to the beneficiary list, which will be accessible to developers, providing legal assurance and clarity for all those involved.

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News developments

UAE: FTA Issues New Excise Tax Framework for Natural Shortages in Designated Zones

03/07/202503/07/2025
by Hannah Gutang

Alvarez and marsal, 26 June 2025: The UAE Federal Tax Authority (FTA) issued Decision No. 6/2025, effective from 1 July 2025, introducing a structured framework for the reporting and management of natural shortages of excise goods within Designated Zones, in line with international tax standards.

FTA has established a detailed framework for managing the natural shortages of excise goods—those occurring due to uncontrollable factors during production, transportation, or storage. The regulation will require businesses to seek pre-approval from the FTA for any natural shortages within a permissible threshold. This threshold must be corroborated by an FTA-approved Independent Competent Entity (ICE), which will conduct assessments of production processes and storage facilities and issue a report that will be valid for up to a year, confirming allowable shortages. When significant changes occur that might affect loss ratios, prompt notification to the ICE will be mandatory.

The new procedural requirements come with rigorous documentation and reporting duties, and businesses will need to maintain comprehensive audit-ready documentation, supported by ICE findings. This includes real-time traceability of excise goods and full compliance with potential FTA inspections. Non-compliance will lead to a risk of excise tax relief being denied and potential penalties.

This decision replaces previous natural shortage procedures, changing the approach from discretion by the FTA to a more systematic approach with obligatory third-party assessments and set deadlines. It will specifically target natural shortages, with other loss types like theft or operational errors remaining under separate guidelines, such as EXTP007.

Businesses affected by these changes should submit pre-approval requests to the FTA, ensure alignment with ICE standards, and update their internal processes accordingly. They should also revisit previous shortage claims to ensure compliance with the newly established criteria.

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News developments

DIFC: Consultation on Variable Capital Company Regulations

03/07/202503/07/2025
by Hannah Gutang

Gulf Today, 25 June 2025: DIFC has launched a public consultation on the newly proposed Variable Capital Company (VCC) Regulations, designed to provide flexible investment structuring options within the DIFC.

The proposed regulations allow the establishment of VCCs as either standalone companies or umbrella structures with incorporated or segregated cells. This setup will offer adaptability on share capital and asset segregation without needing authorisation from DFSA, unless the entity is engaging in regulated financial activities.

The VCC framework is specifically tailored to facilitate proprietary investment activities, making it particularly suitable for family-owned enterprises, multi-asset holdings, and complex investment portfolios seeking efficient asset management and diverse structuring. Important features include flexible share capital equivalent to net asset value, allowing for efficient issuance and redemption of shares, and asset segregation to facilitate distinct investment strategies and risk profiles.

The adoption of these VCC Regulations is expected to provide legal clarity and structural advantages for potential investors within the DIFC, making it an attractive option for diverse asset management strategies.

Once finalised, the VCC Regulations will empower investors to benefit from economies of scale and centralised management, reinforcing DIFC’s reputation as a leading jurisdiction for financial services.

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News developments

Abu Dhabi: Enhances Regulations for Real Estate Brokers and Property Market

02/07/202502/07/2025
by Hannah Gutang

Gulf News, 30 June 2025: Abu Dhabi has tightened its regulations on real estate brokerage services as part of a broader update to the emirate’s property market rules.

The amendments introduced by Abu Dhabi Law No. 2/2025 have changed the law governing the real estate sector in Abu Dhabi, under Abu Dhabi Law No. 3/2015 Concerning the Regulation of the Real Estate Sector in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.

These new regulations, are aimed at increasing transparency and accountability, and were announced by the Department of Municipalities and Transport earlier this month.

The updated regulations redefine real estate activities to include sales, purchase, registration, evaluation, management, and operational aspects of real estate.

New regulatory bodies have been introduced, and operational procedures which will impact developers, brokers, financial institutions, owners, and tenants have been introduced.

The ‘Owners’ Union’ has been changed into the ‘Owners’ Committee’ and has new roles and responsibilities. Specific penalties have been introduced for unauthorised practice of real estate activities, and there are strict administrative fines.

The regulations require homeowner committees to be established for new freehold projects. These committees, will be governed by the Department’s decisions, and will have advisory and oversight roles, with specialised management companies handling operational management.

Obligations on escrow account management have also been revised to ensure transparent transactions and safeguard buyer’s interests.

Key decisions included restructuring the administrative oversight by authorising the Department to impose administrative penalties for violations, reflecting improved compliance standards within the sector. Developers now face altered guidelines, notably stricter registration and marketing requirements for off-plan sales, and enhanced escrow account protocols. There have also been changes affected service fee collection procedures, developers will have to comply with.

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News developments

Lexis Middle East HR Alert – May 2025 Edition

26/06/202526/06/2025
by Tanya Jain

In this edition of Lexis Middle East HR Alert, we bring you a curated selection of the most pressing HR, legal, and regulatory developments shaping the employment landscape across the Middle East. From sweeping changes in Saudi labour law to evolving expectations around flexible work in the UAE’s blue collar sector, this issue is packed with expert insights, legal updates, and practical guidance for HR professionals, legal advisors, and business leaders alike.

As organisations across the region navigate complex immigration frameworks, new compliance requirements, and shifting workforce dynamics, our contributors provide the clarity and context needed to stay ahead. With in-depth features, real-world case reviews, and spotlights on key figures driving HR transformation, the LME HR Alert continues to serve as a trusted resource for understanding the policies and trends that matter most.

Stay ahead of the curve with Lexis Middle East HR Alert, as we provide you with the insights needed to navigate the complexities of HR in the Middle East.

Happy reading!

This edition features a diverse range of content, including:

FEATURE: FRAMEWORK IMPLEMENTED

Shiraz Sethi and Fatima Al-Sabahi of Dentons delve into the key reforms introduced in the Saudi Labour Law following the release of its implementing regulations. Their analysis highlights the significant changes impacting employment relationships, enforcement mechanisms, and employer compliance obligations in the Kingdom.

TREND SETTER: MORE FLEXIBLE BLUE COLLAR JOBS

With a mounting talent shortage in the UAE’s blue collar workforce, businesses are exploring more flexible working arrangements. Mary Rintu Raju of NYK Law outlines the legal implications and operational considerations of rolling out flexible models for this often-overlooked sector.

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

This section captures a selection of important legal and HR news, including changes to company structures in UAE freezones and other updates from across the MENA region.

IMMIGRATION FOCUS: SAUDI ARABIA IMMIGRATION UPDATE

Ali Ibrahim of Vialto Partners provides a comprehensive update on Saudi Arabia’s immigration regulations. His commentary offers vital guidance on how these changes may affect both employers and foreign nationals working in the Kingdom.

LAW CHANGES: NEW AND PROPOSED MENA LAWS

Explore recent and upcoming legal reforms, including newly proposed rules affecting work permits in Kuwait—changes that may impact workforce planning and compliance across multiple jurisdictions.

CASE FOCUS:

This issue includes a review of a recent QICDRC ruling in Clare Holloway v MBG Corporate Services LLC (QFC Case No. 0059/2024), where the Court of First Instance addressed the issue of premature litigation. Mohammed Al Ansari highlights the court’s approach to jurisdiction and procedural compliance.

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_May 2025

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 2024

Lexis Middle East HR Alert_July 2024

Lexis Middle East HR Alert_October 2024

Lexis Middle East HR Alert_January 2025

HR PROFILE: CREATING CHANGE

Nishanth Krishnan, Director of People Advisory and Business Consulting at Grant Thornton UAE, shares insights into the strategic HR interventions needed to lead and manage successful organisational change in today’s climate.

IN-HOUSE PROFILE: PRACTITIONER PERSPECTIVE

Henrietta Baker and Kahroba Kojouri of Dentons discuss proposed amendments to the Saudi Personal Data Protection Law Implementing Regulations (Saudi Arabia Administrative Decision No. 1516/1445).

POLICY POINTERS: WORKING HOURS IN KUWAIT

Bader Al-Qellaish of Wefaq Law Firm reviews the legal frameworks governing working hours in Kuwait, with practical considerations for policy compliance and workforce wellbeing.

MOVES AND CHANGES

Stay updated on the newest business trends, significant appointments, and promotions in the region to stay connected with the market’s key influencers.

Sold Out Qatar Business Law Forum – Gala Dinner & Awards 2025 | 27 November 2025 | Doha, Qatar

24/06/202526/11/2025
by Malini Dean

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Qatar Business Law Forum - Gala Dinner & Awards 2025 | 27 November 2025 | Doha, Qatar
27/11/2025
6:00 PM - 11:00 PM SEBLFMENA

BECOME A SPONSOR REGISTER HERE Join us in Doha, Qatar on 27 November, 2025 for the Qatar Business Law Forum – Gala Dinner and Awards – 10th Edition. The Qatar Business Law Forum – Gala Dinner and Awards ceremony sets out to recognise exceptional achievement within Qatar’s legal community. The awards are judged (more…)

News developments

UAE: Ministry Announces Exemptions Under the Unemployment Insurance Scheme

20/06/202520/06/2025
by Hannah Gutang

Gulf Today, 16 June 2025: The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) confirmed specific categories exempt from participation in the UAE’s Unemployment Insurance Scheme (UIS).

These include investors actively engaged in their registered businesses, domestic workers, temporary contract workers, minors below 18 years of age, and pensioners who are re-employed while drawing a pension.

Launched to provide compensation for unemployed individuals, the UIS requires remaining eligible participants to fulfil four key conditions: maintaining a minimum uninterrupted subscription period of 12 months, ensuring termination is not due to disciplinary reasons as per Federal Decree-Law No. 33/2021, preventing fraudulent claims or fictitious employment, and having compensation halted upon securing new employment during the payout period.

The decision impacts stakeholders within these exempt categories by relieving them of insurance dues, simplifying regulatory compliance for specific employment types.

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