The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security (ICP) has highlighted a significant decision by the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi to waive health insurance fines for foreigners who have violated residency laws but are now eligible for status amendment. This decision reflects the UAE’s government ongoing commitment to upholding humanitarian principles...

The UAE government has introduced amendments to the labour laws aimed at enhancing the competitiveness of the employment market and providing greater clarity around the rights and obligations of employers and employees. Stricter Penalties for Labour Law Violations Under the new amendments, employers face fines ranging from AED 100,000 to AED 1 million for various...

Selling a property in Dubai that is still under mortgage can be challenging, but with the right knowledge and preparation, it can be managed smoothly. The process involves additional steps beyond a typical property sale, ensuring that all parties are protected and that the transaction complies with the legal requirements set by the Dubai Land...

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is increasingly becoming a hub for philanthropic initiatives and foundations. For individuals and organizations looking to engage in charitable activities or manage wealth, establishing a foundation can be a strategic move. A foundation is a non-profit organization created to provide funding or support for specific causes, charitable activities, or social...

The Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) issued the new Insurance Brokerage Regulations on 25 July 2024 (“Regulation”), which supersedes previous regulations and guidance for insurance brokers. The Regulation will become effective six months after its publication in the Gazette, likely by February 2025, depending on the publication date. The CBUAE has directed all insurance...

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) provides multiple avenues for dispute resolution, including litigation and arbitration, governed by distinct judicial systems. Understanding these systems is crucial for businesses, lawyers in Dubai, and residents when drafting provisions for dispute resolution in their commercial contracts. Overview of the UAE Court Systems Mainland Courts The onshore court system operates...

Investment forms the foundation of corporate governance under Federal Decree-Law No. 32/2021 on Commercial Companies Law (Companies Law). Shareholders play a pivotal role in ensuring the financial health and prosperity of a company. This article explores the rights and responsibilities of shareholders concerning their investments and profit sharing, highlighting the procedures for amending the Memorandum...

In a significant move to bolster the real estate sector, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council, has issued Resolution No. 36 of 2024. This Resolution mandates forming a Committee for Real Estate Investment Funds (“Committee”) to enhance governance, compliance, and support...

The Madrid Protocol has streamlined the process of international trademark registration, allowing brand owners to register their trademarks in over 120 countries with a single application. However, it is essential to adhere strictly to all mandatory requirements and standard procedures to avoid delays. Consulting with trademark agents in the UAE can help you navigate the...

If you work in a free zone in Dubai and face issues such as unpaid wages, problems with overtime pay, or late salary payments, you have the right to file a labour complaint. However, the process for filing a complaint is slightly different for free zone workers because most free zones in the UAE have...

The Dubai Courts have unveiled a significant overhaul in their procedures for handling inheritance cases, simplifying the process for both residents and expatriates. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance access to justice and streamline legal processes for the public. Traditionally, dealing with inheritance matters has been a complex and time-consuming endeavour,...

As the world’s first authority solely dedicated to regulating virtual assets (VAs) and related activities, the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) has established a comprehensive framework to enable virtual asset service providers (VASPs) to operate within a robust and clear regulatory environment. This heralds a new era of regulatory oversight in the virtual asset industry....