UAE Archives - Page 6 of 93 - LexisNexis Middle East

Dubai: SCA and VARA Unite to Create Single Virtual Assets Framework

14/08/202514/08/2025
by Hannah Gutang

Gulf News, 6 August 2025: The Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) and Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) have established a unified regulatory framework for virtual assets across the UAE.

Key elements of the new framework include: Joint licensing and supervision mechanisms, Mutual recognition of licenses between Dubai and other emirates, Coordinated compliance monitoring, Real-time information sharing between authorities and Combined inspection and enforcement procedures.

The SCA has established a Coordinating Committee for Legislative Review to oversee the implementation. This committee will: Review existing virtual asset legislation, Propose new regulations, Align standards with international requirements, and Chair coordination between regulatory bodies.

The practical changes include: Centralised licensing procedures, Standardised rules across jurisdictions, Integrated regulatory processes, Combined risk assessment systems, Unified approach to anti-money laundering measures.

The agreement introduces shared digital infrastructure for regulatory processes and establishes joint task forces for ongoing coordination between the authorities.

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News developments

Abu Dhabi: Police to Implement Advanced Surveillance System

14/08/202514/08/2025
by Hannah Gutang

Khaleej Times, 7 August 2025: Abu Dhabi Police has announced a new artificial intelligence initiative to enhance its law enforcement capabilities through advanced surveillance and monitoring technologies.

The programme includes several key components:

Traffic Monitoring: Real-time detection of traffic violations, Automated monitoring of speeding incidents, Red light infractions tracking, Helmet and seatbelt compliance checking and Congestion management systems.

Security Features: Over 150 AI models for suspect identification, Predictive analytics for crime prevention, IoT sensor networks for urban monitoring, Environmental surveillance systems and Audio threat detection capabilities.

The system will also incorporate: AI-powered investigative tools, Digital forensics capabilities, Automated data analysis and Real-time operational briefings.

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News developments

UAE: Securities Authority Announces Major Regulatory Updates

08/08/202508/08/2025
by Hannah Gutang

Gulf News, 4 August 2025: The Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) of the UAE has unveiled four new regulatory initiatives to modernise the country’s financial markets, including frameworks for carbon credit trading and retail sukuk.

SCA Chief Executive announced that the authority is revising the Capital Market Authority Law to expand its oversight of emerging financial activities. The updates include new legislation for the public company division and standards for goodwill valuation in listed firms.

The authority has established a comprehensive framework for green bonds and sukuk issuance.

The regulatory package introduces specific requirements for carbon credit trading platforms, with operators required to develop their own operational rules within the prescribed framework. A draft regulation for retail sukuk is being finalised to enable fractional investment instruments.

The SCA has maintained its fee waiver for green bond and sukuk listings, whilst implementing new frameworks for tokenised securities and commodity contracts as part of its digital transformation agenda.

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News developments

Sharjah: Introduces New Human Resources Regulations for Government Workers

08/08/202508/08/2025
by Hannah Gutang

Gulf Today, 30 July 2025: The Sharjah Executive Council (SEC) has approved comprehensive new human resources regulations, including extended paid leave for mothers of children with disabilities and updated guidelines for military personnel.

A significant addition to the policy allows female employees who give birth to children requiring constant medical care to receive fully paid leave for up to three years. The new maternal care provision includes:

One year of fully paid leave following standard maternity leave
Possible annual extensions for up to three years with appropriate approvals
Requirement for medical documentation from authorised bodies
Continued performance evaluation during the leave period
Integration with existing service records

The council has also implemented new regulations for military personnel in Sharjah’s regulatory bodies. These address:

Job classification and recruitment
Salary structures and allowances
Promotion systems
Internal transfers and secondments
Training programmes
Educational leave
Performance assessment
End-of-service benefits

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News developments

Dubai: Metro Announces New Fines for Rule Breaches

07/08/202507/08/2025
by Hannah Gutang

Gulf News, 2 August 2025: Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has released an updated schedule of fines for Dubai Metro violations, with penalties ranging from Dh100 to Dh2,000.

The most severe penalties target safety breaches, with Dh2,000 fines for damaging metro property or misusing emergency equipment. Carrying dangerous materials incurs a Dh1,000 penalty, whilst travelling with alcohol results in a Dh500 fine.

Fare evasion and ticket misuse attract penalties up to Dh500, with standard fare dodging resulting in a Dh200 fine. Using counterfeit Nol cards carries the maximum Dh500 penalty in this category.

Behavioural violations, including eating in prohibited areas, causing disturbance to passengers, and misusing facilities, will result in Dh100 fines. Sleeping in metro facilities carries a Dh300 penalty.

The RTA has also implemented parking regulations at metro stations, with daily fines of Dh100 for vehicles exceeding permitted parking durations, up to a maximum of Dh1,000.

Additional violations include a Dh200 fine for smoking, selling goods without permission, or failing to follow the inspector’s instructions.

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News developments

Abu Dhabi: Introduces New Cyber Security Rules for Financial Firms

07/08/202507/08/2025
by Hannah Gutang

The Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) of Abu Dhabi Global Market has announced new cyber risk management requirements for financial institutions.

Key measures include:

Mandatory integration of cyber risk management into existing frameworks
Updated IT risk management guidance
Revised requirements for IT service provider arrangements
New cyber incident notification procedures

Implementation details:

Six-month transition period for compliance
Applies to all Authorised Persons and Recognised Bodies
Changes follow Consultation Paper No. 3 of 2025
Updated incident notification template to be released by year-end

The amendments were finalised following industry consultation, with modifications made to:

Clarify proportionality principles
Refine integration requirements
Adjust IT service provider arrangements
Update incident materiality assessment guidance

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News developments

Lexis Middle East Gulf Tax – Autumn 2025 Edition

05/08/202505/08/2025
by Hannah Gutang

Brought to You by Tolley+ Middle East

The Autumn 2025 edition of Lexis Middle East Gulf Tax delivers a focused and timely overview of the latest tax developments across the GCC. Packed with expert commentary, legislative updates, and actionable advice, this edition is an essential resource for tax professionals working through the region’s increasingly intricate fiscal environment.

FEATURE: CRS AND FATCA: THE FINER POINTS

Dhana Pillai of DP Taxation Consultancy examines the key takeaways from recent penalties imposed by UAE authorities, shedding light on crucial compliance insights related to CRS and FATCA regulations.

FEATURE: NOW THAT’S VAT

Chadi Abou-Chakra, PwC Middle East’s Indirect Tax Leader and ME TLS Chief Operating Officer, provides insights into the implications of the recent changes to Saudi Arabia’s VAT Implementing Regulations.

TAX NEWS ROUND-UP

A focused overview of key tax treaty revisions and regulatory changes in the Gulf, offering valuable insights for navigating compliance and cross-border impact.

PRACTICAL FOCUS: FOCUS ON PARTNERSHIP

Authored by Aunali Merchant, Sanjay Shukla, and Palak Khetawat of MMJS Consulting, this article examines the impact of UAE corporate tax reforms on partnership structures and their compliance obligations.

TAX PROFESSIONAL PROFILE: ADDING VALUE

Manish Arora, Tax Director at Adidas, emphasises that delivering value as an in-house tax professional requires more than just staying informed about the latest tax developments.

ANY QUESTIONS? WHAT DOES FORMAL ADOPTION OF OECD GUIDANCE MEAN?

Bhumit Gangar of Deloitte breaks down the practical implications of the UAE’s official implementation of the OECD’s Pillar 2 Guidance.

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Lexis Middle East Gulf Tax_Autumn 2025

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Lexis Middle East Gulf Tax | Summer 2025

Lexis Middle East Gulf Tax | Spring 2025

Lexis Middle East Gulf Tax | Autumn 2024

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Publications

Lexis Middle East Law Alert: July-August 2025 Edition

04/08/202504/08/2025
by Hannah Gutang

The July-August 2025 edition of Lexis Middle East Law Alert provides legal professionals across the GCC with essential updates and expert analysis on recent legislative and regulatory developments. This issue explores Saudi Arabia’s new Procedural Guide on Off-Plan Real Estate Sales, designed to strengthen existing frameworks, as well as changes to Abu Dhabi’s property market regulations and Kuwait’s implementation of GCC voluntary work requirements. It also features updates on UAE tax compliance through revised map guidance, and examines Oman’s evolving public health legislation under a new decree. Additional coverage includes the introduction of Close-out Netting and Collateral Arrangement regulations by the Saudi Central Bank—marking a significant step in the Kingdom’s financial sector. The issue further explores how legal teams are adapting to digital transformation and concludes with a roundup of major leadership changes across the region.

This edition offers a comprehensive yet concise look at the shifting legal and regulatory landscape in the Middle East.

FEATURE: OFF PLAN SELLING EXPLAINED

Jaafer Alsir Ali of Al Ghazzawi & Partners sheds light on how Saudi Arabia’s new Procedural Guide on Selling and Leasing Off-Plan Real Estate Projects is set to reinforce and complement the country’s existing legal framework in this dynamic sector.

FEATURE: HEALTH MATTERS

Ahmed Al Barwani of Al Tamimi & Company explores Oman’s public health strategy under the newly enacted Sultani Decree No. 43/2025.

IN-HOUSE PROFILE: HANDLING DIGITAL DEVELOPMENTS

Gopa Talukdar, Head of Legal for the Middle East at Reckitt, shares her approach to navigating change in a dynamic business environment.

IN-HOUSE PROFILE: PRACTITIONER PERSPECTIVE

Ksenia Andreeva of Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP discusses Saudi Arabia’s proposals to shape the future of Global AI Hubs.

MOVERS AND SHAKERS

From partner promotions to leadership transitions—this roundup spotlights the influential career moves reshaping the legal landscape across the region.

CONTRACT WATCH: CLOSE-OUT NETTING IN SAUDI ARABIA

Mohammed Negm, Litigation Lawyer at Al Tamimi & Company, explains Saudi Arabia’s first Regulation on Close-out Netting issued by SAMA in February 2025, which ensures the enforceability of certain financial contracts and collateral arrangements outside bankruptcy proceedings.

TAX AND FINANCE ROUND-UP

Stay ahead of the curve with the newest tax and finance updates in the region—featuring the UAE’s latest MAP guidance for taxpayers.

Lexis Middle East Law Alert_July-August 2025

Explore the past editions of the Lexis® Middle East Law Alert and stay up-to-date with the latest news! Click the links below for instant access to older editions.

Lexis Middle East Law Alert_May-June 2025

Lexis Middle East Law Alert_March-April 2025

Lexis Middle East Law Alert_January-February 2025

Lexis Middle East Law Alert_October-November 2024

LEGAL ROUND-UP

Keep informed with our latest legal round-up, featuring key changes to Abu Dhabi’s property market regulations.

LAW MONITOR

Explore recent legal developments across the GCC, with a spotlight on Kuwait’s implementation of the GCC voluntary work requirements.

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News developments

Lexis Middle East HR Alert – July 2025 Edition

04/08/202504/08/2025
by Hannah Gutang

In this edition of the Lexis Middle East HR Alert, we explore the most pressing legal, regulatory, and HR developments shaping the employment landscape across the region, with a particular focus on the ongoing impact of nationalisation policies. These legislative initiatives remain a central concern for HR professionals, regardless of their industry or jurisdiction. Alongside the need to understand the evolving legal requirements, organisations must also adopt a practical and culturally sensitive approach to implementation. In our featured interview, the Head of HR Operations at Al Tamimi & Company shares how their organisation is proactively and innovatively adapting to these changes. However, not all responses have been as constructive—some employers are attempting to circumvent the rules through misreporting or fraudulent hiring practices. With the introduction of stricter enforcement mechanisms and the implementation of Cabinet Decision No. 43/2025, the UAE authorities are shifting from discretionary to structured penalties, significantly increasing the scope of punishable offences and the severity of fines. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation’s Enforcement Report 2024 underscores the government’s readiness to prosecute offenders, further raising the stakes for non-compliance. This edition offers practical insights and guidance to help organisations assess their compliance status and, where necessary, take swift and innovative action to align with nationalisation goals in a responsible and sustainable manner.

Empower your HR strategy with cutting-edge analysis from Lexis Middle East HR Alert, delivering the latest updates shaping workplaces in the Middle East.

Happy reading!

This edition features a diverse range of content, including:

FEATURE: GETTING TOUCH

Raka Roy and Yusur Dalloul of Galadari Advocates and Legal Consultants delve into the UAE’s stricter enforcement measures against individuals and companies that falsify records to bypass Emiratisation rules or improperly benefit from related incentives.

TREND SETTER: AUTOMATED WORKFORCE MONITORING

Diana Froyland, Senior Counsel at Hadef & Partners, examines the implications of automated employee monitoring in the UAE and the data privacy concerns it raises for employers and HR teams.

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

This section presents a curated summary of major legal and HR updates from across the region, including the latest on Oman’s immigration grace period.

IMMIGRATION FOCUS: SAUDI VISIT VISA CHANGES

Experts from Vialto Partners explain the recent revisions to Saudi Arabia’s visit visa policies, which now affect travellers from 14 countries, highlighting compliance considerations for affected stakeholders.

LAW CHANGES: NEW AND PROPOSED MENA LAWS

Aarti Thadani and Sarah Sheppard from Norton Rose Fulbright (Middle East) LLP discuss the anticipated impact of Dubai Decree No. 19/2025, a regulatory shift set to enhance health and safety protocols in the emirate’s construction sector.

CASE FOCUS

A recent ruling from the QICDRC in Zia Ur Rehman v Forvis Mazars LLC [2025] QIC (A) 7 (issued 14 May 2025) underscores the need for robust evidence in breach of contract claims, the conditions under which non-compete compensation may apply, and the high threshold for appeals.

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.

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Lexis Middle East HR Alert_July 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 2025

Lexis Middle East HR Alert_March 2025

Lexis Middle East HR Alert_January 2025

Lexis Middle East HR Alert_October 2024

HR PROFILE: AN AGILE APPROACH TO CHANGE

Samia AlRajaby, Head of HR Operations at Al Tamimi & Company, shares how adopting an agile mindset has empowered her to navigate technological transformation and shifting generational expectations.

IN-HOUSE PROFILE: PRACTITIONER PERSPECTIVE

Ben Brown, Sara Khoja and Sarit Thomas of Clyde & Co offer insights into evolving leave policies following a significant recent decision by the Abu Dhabi Courts, urging a strategic review for in-house teams.

POLICY POINTERS: FRACTIONAL EXECUTIVES IN SAUDI ARABIA

Dr. Sairah Narmah-Alqasim, Partner at Pinsent Masons, explores the growing adoption of fractional executives in Saudi Arabia, driven by remote work and the Regional Headquarters Programme, and highlights key policy considerations such as Saudisation.

MOVES AND CHANGES

Stay informed with the latest executive appointments, promotions, and market trends shaping the business landscape across the region.

Expired Navigating Public Sector Partnerships: Legal and Administrative Essentials | 15 September 2025 | 8:30AM-12PM

31/07/202511/09/2025
by Malini Dean

We're sorry, but all tickets sales have ended because the event is expired.

Navigating Public Sector Partnerships: Legal and Administrative Essentials | 15 Sept 2025
15/09/2025
8:30 AM - 12:00 PM

REGISTER HERE Navigating Public Sector Partnerships: Legal and Administrative Essentials Understanding the Legal Landscape for Public Sector Engagement in Saudi Arabia “This programme is designed primarily for in-house counsel, senior executives, consultants, and investors engaged in Saudi public sector projects. Attendance is not generally intended for representatives of private practice law firms.” Saudi government (more…)