On March 12, 2025, the UAE Cabinet approved comprehensive regulations to enhance the legal profession and consultancy services within the country. These regulations outline conditions and procedures for transferring lawyers from the list of practicing lawyers before primary and appellate courts to the list of practicing lawyers before the Federal Supreme Court. They also specify requirements for practical training for trainee lawyers, obligations of supervising lawyers, and licensing criteria for non-national lawyers wishing to practice law in the UAE. Additionally, the regulations cover the registration process for legal researchers, advisors, and representatives working in law firms, ensuring that all legal professionals adhere to consistent standards. This initiative aims to strengthen the judicial system and reinforce the rule of law in the UAE.
UAE Cabinet
The Abu Dhabi Municipality on March 10, 2025 announced the implementation of enhanced regulations to combat property neglect and maintain the city’s aesthetic appeal. Property owners are now required to ensure proper upkeep of their premises, preventing deterioration that could negatively impact the urban environment. Under these new regulations, violations will result in fines starting at AED 5,000 for a first offense, AED 10,000 for a second offense, and AED 20,000 for repeated violations. These measures are designed to improve community standards and enhance the quality of life for residents by ensuring that neglected properties do not affect the city's visual appeal and livability.
UAE Government
In a strategic move to bolster its position as a global hub for sports and entertainment, Dubai has announced the establishment of a new free zone "The International Sports and Entertainment Zone (ISEZA)" dedicated to businesses operating in these sectors. This initiative aims to attract international companies by offering a conducive environment with benefits such as 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, and state-of-the-art infrastructure. The free zone is expected to host a range of enterprises, from sports academies and event organisers to media and entertainment companies, thereby enhancing Dubai's diverse business environment.
UAE Government
UAE Cabinet
On March 7, 2025, Dubai Municipality introduced an AI-powered, ticketless parking system to enhance efficiency and user convenience. The system uses advanced cameras and sensors to automatically detect vehicles, record entry times, and calculate parking fees without the need for paper tickets. Payments can be made via online platforms, QR codes, and designated kiosks. The system has been implemented at key locations, including Palm Jumeirah East Crescent, where parking costs AED 10 per hour and operates 24/7, and Dubai Harbour, where a barrier-free parking system allows automatic fee deduction through Salik accounts. This initiative aligns with Dubai’s smart city strategy, improving urban mobility and streamlining parking operations.
Dubai Municipality
Dubai residents can now renew their visas within minutes through the newly launched 'Salama' platform. This innovative system streamlines the visa renewal process, allowing users to complete applications and download updated documents directly from the platform. The initiative aims to enhance efficiency and convenience for residents, reflecting Dubai's commitment to leveraging technology in public services.
The United Arab Emirates has implemented a new Federal Competition Law designed to promote fair market practices and curb monopolistic behavior. The legislation prohibits companies from offering excessively low prices with the intent to eliminate competition, ensuring a level playing field for all businesses. This move aligns with the UAE's ongoing efforts to foster a competitive and transparent economic environment.
UAE Ministry of Economy
The UAE has introduced Federal Decree-Law No. 41 of 2024 on Personal Status, set to take effect on April 15, 2025. This law modernizes family-related regulations, ensuring fairness and adaptability to contemporary societal needs. Key changes include setting the minimum legal marriage age at 18 years, allowing women to marry without guardian consent, and permitting custody until the child reaches 18 years, with children aged 15 and above granted the right to choose their custodial parent. The law also enhances financial rights, allowing wives to claim backdated maintenance for up to six months and granting non-Muslim mothers extended custody rights beyond age five, subject to court approval. Additionally, both parents can travel with their children for up to 60 days per year without requiring consent from the other parent. Strict penalties, including fines and imprisonment, have been introduced for the misuse of children’s identification documents. The law further ensures that both spouses must consent before allowing third parties to reside in the marital home, while family support now includes both financial and non-monetary contributions. These reforms aim to enhance family stability and align UAE law with international standards.
UAE Government
The UAE’s Digital School has launched the Skills Academies Initiative to equip 5 million young people across Africa with essential skills to meet the demands of the modern job market. The initiative offers specialized training programs focusing on digital literacy, entrepreneurship, and industry-relevant skills, enabling participants to gain meaningful employment. This project is part of the UAE's commitment to fostering global education and empowering youth in underserved regions.
The Digital School, UAE
His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah, issued Law No. 1 of 2025, imposing a 20% tax on companies extracting natural resources in Sharjah. This tax applies to businesses involved in resource extraction activities, aligning with Sharjah’s sustainable development goals and revenue generation strategies. The law emphasizes regulatory compliance and sustainable practices for resource utilization, effective from February 2025.
On February 9, 2025, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, announced the results of the Bureaucracy Removal Initiative, launched at the end of 2023. The evaluation ranked the Department of Justice, Department of State, and Department of Energy and Infrastructure as the top-performing entities, while the Emirates Post, Pensions Authority, and Ministry of Sports were ranked worst government departments and advised them to improve their responsiveness.
The Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD) has implemented smart technology to resolve court cases within 40 days, significantly reducing the timeline from years. This advancement enhances judicial efficiency and ensures speedy resolutions, reflecting the UAE's commitment to modernizing its legal system.
Banks in the UAE can file legal cases against customers unable to pay credit card dues. Such cases are governed by the Civil Transactions Law and related regulations. Customers are encouraged to negotiate repayment plans to avoid legal complications. This update emphasizes the importance of financial responsibility and adherence to credit agreements.
Parents in the UAE can sponsor their children on residency visas until the child turns 25 years old, as per the latest rules. Previously, the age limit was set at 18 years. This update applies to unmarried sons, while daughters can remain under sponsorship without age restrictions. The rule aims to support families residing in the UAE.
On February 6, 2025, the UAE's Ministry of Economy launched a new roadmap for 'Green Intellectual Property (IP)' to foster innovation and accelerate technology localization. This initiative is designed to support projects in the new economy, environmental sustainability, and the circular economy. Over a three-month period, the roadmap aims to strengthen the UAE's competitive position in green technology and sustainable development.
On February 5, 2025, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, issued Law No. (1) of 2025 regulating the use of the emblems of the Emirate of Dubai and its government. The law stipulates that only Dubai government departments and public agencies are authorized to use the emirate's emblem. Unauthorized use by individuals or entities is prohibited, aiming to preserve the integrity and official representation of Dubai's symbols.
The Federal Tax Authority (FTA) has called on registrants to take advantage of the grace period, effective from January 1 to March 31, 2025, to update their tax records. This initiative allows registrants to amend their information without facing administrative penalties, promoting compliance and accuracy in tax filings. The FTA emphasizes the importance of timely updates to ensure alignment with current tax regulations.
In a meeting chaired by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the UAE Cabinet approved the National Cybersecurity Strategy on February 3, 2025. The strategy aims to enhance the country's cybersecurity framework, protect national digital infrastructure, and promote safe digital transactions. Additionally, the Cabinet endorsed the API-First Policy to facilitate seamless digital integration across government services.
As of 2nd February 2025, the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) has significantly expanded its corporate tax awareness programs, reaching over 15,700 participants in 2024. These initiatives, encompassing both in-person events across all emirates and virtual sessions, aim to educate businesses about the UAE's corporate tax framework and compliance requirements. The FTA remains committed to supporting taxpayers through continuous educational efforts and resources.
On 28th January 2025, the United Arab Emirates presented its second national report on the Arab Charter on Human Rights during the 27th session of the Arab Charter on Human Rights Committee at the Arab League headquarters in Cairo. The report highlights the UAE's legislative advancements and initiatives aimed at promoting human rights, including the declaration of 2025 as the "Year of Community" to strengthen social cohesion. Additionally, the UAE issued Federal Decree-Law No. 10 of 2024 to further align its legal framework with international human rights standards.
Effective January 31, 2025, Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) will introduce variable Salik toll rates and dynamic parking fees to manage traffic congestion and optimize parking space usage. Salik tolls will be AED 6 during peak hours (6:00 AM – 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM) and AED 4 during off-peak hours. Late-night crossings (1:00 AM – 6:00 AM) will remain free. Starting March 2025, dynamic parking fees will be implemented in high-demand areas. Premium parking spaces will cost AED 6 per hour during peak hours (8:00 AM – 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM), while regular public parking fees remain at AED 4 per hour. Parking will be free from 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM, on Sundays, and during public holidays. These measures aim to reduce congestion, promote alternative transportation, and enhance parking efficiency across Dubai.
The UAE has introduced a unified licence system enabling medical professionals to work across the country without the need for multiple licenses. This initiative simplifies employment processes for healthcare workers, allowing them to practice in all emirates under a single licence. It aims to enhance flexibility, improve healthcare services, and address workforce shortages. The new system is a key step toward integrating healthcare operations nationwide.
Residents of Abu Dhabi can file complaints about excessive construction noise through the TAMM platform or by contacting the Abu Dhabi Environment Agency. Authorities monitor and regulate noise levels based on established guidelines, ensuring compliance with environmental laws. Construction sites exceeding permitted noise levels may face fines or other penalties. This initiative promotes a balance between urban development and the well-being of residents.
The UAE Government and the World Economic Forum have signed a partnership to launch and develop the 'Global Regulatory Innovation Platform'. This initiative aims to foster international cooperation in regulatory practices, promoting innovation and adaptability in governance frameworks. The platform will serve as a hub for sharing best practices and developing forward-thinking regulatory solutions to address emerging global challenges. This collaboration demonstrates the UAE's commitment to proactive governance and its leadership in shaping the future of regulatory policy.
The UAE Accountability Authority recently hosted the 17th meeting of the International Organization of Supreme Audit Institutions (INTOSAI)'s Anti-Corruption and Money Laundering Working Group. The meeting focused on enhancing international cooperation in combating corruption and money laundering, sharing best practices, and developing strategies to strengthen financial integrity globally. This event highlights the UAE's ongoing commitment to transparency, accountability, and active participation in global efforts to combat financial crimes
The Ministry of Finance announced on January 10, 2025 the issuance of Cabinet Decision No. (127) of 2024 replacing the earlier Cabinet Decision No. (25) of 2018, making amendments to the VAT Law. The updates expand the reverse charge mechanism to cover transactions involving precious metals (gold, silver, platinum) and stones (diamonds, pearls, and other gemstones). Registered dealers will no longer charge VAT to buyers; instead, buyers will self-account for VAT through their returns. This change aims to improve transparency and simplify compliance for businesses in the gold and diamond sectors.
The UAE has clarified five key exemptions to its work permit suspension policy to ensure continuity in vital sectors. These exemptions apply to essential workers in healthcare, education, and infrastructure; companies supporting national projects or critical industries; employees transferring within the same organization; special cases approved by MOHRE; and circumstances covered by international agreements. This initiative balances labor policy enforcement with maintaining economic stability and essential services.
The UAE has enacted Federal Law No. 38 of 2024 on pharmaceutical products, effective January 02, 2025, focusing on enhancing public health and safety. Key changes include stricter penalties for counterfeit drugs, up to AED 1 million in fine for establishments and AED 500,000 for practitioners, comprehensive licensing requirements for pharmacies and pharmacists, and tighter regulations on prescription medications. The law also emphasizes the need for compliance with international pharmaceutical standards, ensuring high-quality healthcare products and services across the nation.
The UAE has lifted its drone ban as of January 7, 2025, allowing individuals to operate drones under strict federal and emirate-specific rules. Operators must register their drones through a unified platform and obtain a certified drone pilot training certificate. Recreational drone use remains suspended in Dubai. Only UAE citizens and residents are eligible for permits at this stage, with potential future inclusion of tourists. These regulations ensure safety and compliance within UAE airspace.
The UAE has introduced significant updates to its Personal Status Laws, effective April 25, 2025, aiming to enhance family stability and individual rights. Key provisions include setting the minimum marriage age at 18 years. Imposing fines of up to AED 100,000 for unauthorized travel with minors or neglecting their care, and strengthening penalties against abuse or neglect of parents. The law also provides detailed guidelines for divorce, inheritance, and child custody, ensuring greater protection for families and vulnerable individuals.
The Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) has introduced new Employment Regulations 2024, replacing the 2019 regulations. Effective April 1, 2025, the changes allow for remote and flexible work arrangements, clarify entitlements for part-time employees, and expand obligations on workplace discrimination and victimization. Employers must align policies and contracts with these updates. This step enhances ADGM's regulatory framework, promoting innovation and stability for businesses and employees.
The Dubai Land Department (DLD) has introduced a Smart Rental Index, enhancing transparency in rental transactions and providing real-time market data. This innovative tool is accessible via the Dubai REST app and streamlines the rental process by offering accurate and updated rental price benchmarks. The initiative aligns with Dubai’s smart city goals, aiming to improve decision-making for tenants and landlords while promoting sustainable growth in the real estate sector.
Effective January 1, 2025, health and motor insurance premiums in Dubai are set to rise by 5-10%, reflecting higher healthcare costs and vehicle repair expenses. The increase is coupled with enhanced benefits for policyholders, aiming to balance costs with improved service offerings. This adjustment aligns with inflation trends and addresses changing cost structures in the industry.
MoHRE has announced a basic Health Insurance Scheme for private sector employees and domestic workers in the UAE. Starting January 1, 2025, this initiative mandates employers to provide health insurance coverage as a prerequisite for issuing or renewing residency permits. Currently implemented in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, the scheme will expand to Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah. The program aims to ensure 100% worker coverage and reduce medical treatment costs for uninsured workers.
Victims of the Heera Group scam can now file claims through India’s SFIO, regardless of whether funds were handed over in the UAE or India. UAE-based investors should coordinate with Indian authorities via legal channels.
Senior citizens, retirees with low incomes, and families of deceased citizens in Abu Dhabi are exempted from housing loan payments. The Crown Prince approved the third housing benefit package of 2024, offering residential land and housing grants.
Key updates include salary continuity for disputes up to two months, revised probation guidelines, flexible working models for temporary workers, and a one-year statute of limitations for labor claims.
Private companies with 50+ employees must achieve a 2% annual growth in skilled job Emiratization. Those meeting this target gain priority for government procurement contracts.
The Ministry of Finance has proposed a refundable tax credit to encourage high-value employment activities within the UAE. Effective from January 2, 2025, this incentive will apply to C-suite executives and senior personnel engaged in core business functions that deliver significant economic benefits. The tax credit will be based on a percentage of eligible salary costs, subject to legislative approvals.
To promote innovation and sustainable growth, the Ministry of Finance is considering introducing an R&D tax incentive effective for tax periods starting on or after January 1, 2026. The incentive will offer an expenditure-based tax credit ranging from 30% to 50%, which may be refundable depending on the business’s revenue and employee base. Qualifying R&D activities must align with the OECD’s Frascati Manual guidelines and be conducted within the UAE.
The UAE will implement a Domestic Minimum Top-up Tax (DMTT) for multinational enterprises (MNEs) with global revenues of €750 million (approx. AED 3 billion) or more. The DMTT will ensure that these entities pay a minimum effective tax rate of 15% on their profits. This tax will be effective for financial years starting on or after January 1, 2025, aligning with the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development’s (OECD) Two-Pillar Solution. Further details on the legislation will be issued by the Ministry of Finance.
Federal Decree-Law No. 34/2023 combats discrimination, hatred, and extremism. It prohibits acts of defamation or disrespect against 'Abrahamic religions' and penalizes hate speech that incites discord or discrimination. Freedom of speech is restricted where it promotes extremism.
New rules for visit visas in the UAE now require travelers to submit proof of accommodation, a return ticket, a valid passport with at least six months of validity, and bank statements showing AED 3,000 for a one (1) month visa or AED 5,000 for a two (2) month visa.
The UAE has introduced a robust policy on Artificial Intelligence, aligning with its foreign policy on emerging technologies. Supported by government initiatives, international partnerships, and investments in R&D, the policy emphasizes adherence to global AI governance and standards.
Dubai issued Law No. (1) of 2024, introducing a federal corporate tax at a rate of 9% on taxable income for foreign bank branches operating in the Emirate. This law supersedes prior legislation and aligns Dubai’s taxation policies with the UAE Corporate Tax framework.
The inaugural Emirates Labour Market Award results will be announced on November 14, with an impressive prize pool of AED 37 million. This award recognizes organizations that excel in UAE labor market standards, including Emiratisation, workplace conditions, and employee well-being, fostering a robust and competitive labor market aligned with national goals.
This new regulation grants the Director General authority to impose travel bans, asset freezes, and other disciplinary actions on employees found guilty of financial misconduct. Minor violations are addressed internally, while criminal cases must be forwarded to the Dubai Public Prosecution. Employees can appeal penalties through a designated Grievances Committee within 15 days of a decision.
Under Sharjah's new tenancy regulation, Law No. 5 of 2024, rent increases are frozen for three years, lease certification within 15 days is mandatory, and tenant protection measures have been enhanced. The law aims to provide stability and transparency in the rental market.
The Insurance Brokers' Regulation 2024, based on Federal Law No. 48 of 2023, introduces new requirements for licensing, financial solvency, and digital compliance for insurance brokers. The regulation replaces the 2014 rules, with a focus on improving the UAE’s insurance standards.
Starting in 2024, UAE Pass ID is required to access MOHRE services, enhancing digital security and convenience. The initiative ensures that all users have a verified digital ID, facilitating efficient service access for residents and businesses.
Effective November 1, 2024, GDRFA mandates the “Ideal Face” facial recognition technology for more secure identity verification. This measure aims to streamline and strengthen residency-related services, benefiting travelers and residents alike.
Indian passport holders with a valid U.S. visa, green card, or residency in EU or UK are eligible for a visa on arrival in the UAE. This visa allows for a 14-day stay, which can be extended for an additional 14 days, promoting easier travel for Indian nationals.
