Money exchangers and remittance houses in the UAE operate within a strict legal and regulatory framework designed to safeguard the financial system, protect customers, and prevent misuse for money laundering or terrorist financing. The framework rests on two complementary pillars: (a) the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) licensing and supervision regime for exchange businesses;...
Introduction The UAE is one of the most dynamic financial hubs in the Middle East, supported by a well-regulated banking and financial services sector. With its strategic location, strong demand for remittance services, and a sizable expatriate population, the money exchange business in the UAE has proven to be both lucrative and competitive. This...
In the dynamic landscape of the UAE’s business environment, choosing the right structure for incorporation can have a lasting impact on a venture’s regulatory flexibility, strategic positioning, and governance. Among various incorporation options, foundations are increasingly gaining prominence for asset protection, legacy planning, and governance structuring, especially among high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs), family offices, and cross-border...
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...
Introduction In a significant step toward strengthening international tax cooperation, the UAE Ministry of Finance (MoF), in coordination with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA), has issued comprehensive guidance on the Mutual Agreement Procedure (MAP). This long-anticipated update provides much-needed clarity on the procedures available to resolve cross-border tax disputes under the UAE’s Double Taxation Agreements...
Early-stage fundraising is one of the most critical junctures for a startup’s long-term viability. From a legal standpoint, the structure of the investment can directly influence ownership rights, regulatory compliance, investor protections, and the future fundraising strategy of the company. The most common investment instruments used at this stage are Simple Agreements for Future Equity...
The UAE’s real estate market is a hub for local and international investors due to its attractive tax environment. While the country does not levy personal income tax or federal corporate tax on most real estate transactions, Value Added Tax (VAT) was introduced on 1 January 2018 through Federal Decree-Law No. (8) of 2017 on...
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...
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) remains a premier jurisdiction for foreign investment and business incorporation. As regulatory frameworks continue to evolve, particularly with the implementation of the federal corporate tax regime and amendments to the Commercial Companies Law, investors must carefully evaluate the appropriate legal structure for their businesses. One of the most fundamental decisions...
The UAE’s booming real estate market has inevitably led to an increase in disputes among developers, buyers, tenants, landlords, and brokers. While the UAE legal system offers multiple avenues for dispute resolution, navigating these paths can be complex. This article outlines the common types of real estate disputes, the available resolution mechanisms, and practical steps...
