On 1 January 2026, the UAE ushered in one of the most significant legal reforms of the last decade: the promulgation of changes to the Civil Transactions Law, 2026. While the announcement from WAM reads like a formal legislative update, the implications of this law are far-reaching, practical, and deeply relevant to how people live, contract, invest, inherit, and resolve...
In 2023, ATB Legal was approached by an overseas Indian-origin investor holding U.S. citizenship, an entrepreneur with a distinctly global outlook and a vision that extended well beyond conventional business expansion. His goal was not simply to set up a company in the UAE; he wanted to create a future-ready holding structure capable of nurturing,...
When Ibrahim and Metalda (fictitious name) moved to Abu Dhabi twelve years ago, they believed they were on a predictable path, with stable careers, a growing family, and long-term plans to build a life in the UAE. But as their financial landscape expanded, so did their responsibilities. A Muslim – Christian expat partners, with two...
Challenge A senior expatriate professional (“the Client”), who had lived in the UAE for more than a decade, approached ATB Legal with rising concerns about the security and smooth transfer of his assets. His portfolio included properties in Dubai, multiple bank accounts, investments, and a growing business interest. Although he had a Will registered in...
As digital platforms increasingly blur the line between financial advice and social media influence, the UAE has taken a proactive regulatory step through Chairman Resolution No. 10 of 2025. Issued by the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA), the Resolution establishes a licensing regime for Finfluencers, natural persons offering financial recommendations via public channels. This article...
This article provides a comprehensive guide for employees in the UAE who are facing difficulties with their employers not accepting their resignation. Under UAE Labour Law, employees have the right to resign at any time, provided they comply with contractual and legal notice periods. Despite this, some employers may delay or refuse to accept resignations,...
This article provides a comprehensive overview of prenuptial agreements in the UAE, with a focus on their relevance, enforceability, and legal implications for expatriates and non-Muslim residents. It explores the evolving legal framework, particularly the impact of Federal Decree-Law No. 41 of 2022, which introduced civil personal status laws for non-Muslims, including provisions for enforceable...
This article explores the evolving legal framework around civil marriage for Muslim and Non-Muslim expatriates in the UAE, particularly under Abu Dhabi Law No. 14 of 2021. Traditionally governed by Islamic Shariah law, Muslim marriages are now seeing a shift as many young expats seek alternatives aligned with international norms and personal choice. The article...
Dubai has introduced new legal guidelines requiring overseas property sellers to ensure that sale proceeds are transferred only to the bank account of the individual named on the title deed. Effective from June 2025, this guideline forms part of a broader effort to enhance Anti-Money Laundering (AML) compliance, increase transparency, and align with international best...
This article explores the crucial differences between a Will and a Power of Attorney (POA) in the UAE, highlighting why both are essential for expatriates. A Will governs asset distribution and guardianship after death, while a POA enables someone to manage your affairs during your lifetime. Through real case examples, the article explains how each...
