The United Arab Emirates has taken a significant step towards ensuring comprehensive healthcare coverage for all private sector employees and domestic workers with the introduction of a new basic health insurance scheme. This initiative, effective from January 1, 2025, aims to cover 100% of private sector workers in the Northern Emirates, including Sharjah, Ajman, Umm...
The Indian Consulate in Dubai has implemented new regulations to streamline the repatriation process for mortal remains of deceased Indian expatriates in Dubai and the Northern Emirates. The revised rules aim to protect bereaved families from exploitation and ensure a more transparent and empathetic process. Curbing Exploitation by Agents The Consulate has raised concerns over...
In a groundbreaking development, member states of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) concluded a historic agreement during a diplomatic conference held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from November 11 to 22, 2024. The newly adopted Riyadh Design Law Treaty represents a significant leap forward in simplifying and harmonizing international design protection mechanisms. It addresses long-standing...
The Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) has issued a circular prohibiting the use of the Abu Dhabi Government emblem on commercial products and services without prior authorization. This directive is in line with Law No. (5) of 2010, which governs the use of the Emirate’s official emblem. The circular emphasizes that the emblem...
Dubai’s legal system has seen a critical update with the introduction of Decree No. (29) of 2024, issued by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Ruler of Dubai. This decree establishes a specialized a New Judicial Committee aimed at resolving jurisdictional disputes between the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Courts and other...
Businesses incorporated in the UAE after June 1, 2023, with a six-month initial financial year ending before February 29, 2024, now have until December 31, 2024, to file their first Corporate Tax returns. Summary The Federal Tax Authority (FTA) has extended the deadline for filing the first Corporate Tax returns for entities incorporated on or...
In a move to protect consumers from intrusive marketing practices, the UAE government has introduced stringent new telemarketing regulations effective August 27, 2024. This article delves into the key provisions, penalties, and features like the Do Not Call Registry (DNCR) and ‘Kashif’ caller ID that are shaping the future of telemarketing in the UAE. Understanding...
With the enactment of Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021, the legal framework in the United Arab Emirates pertaining to employer obligations and employee rights has substantially evolved. This law sets forth extensive obligations for employers, such as giving their employees accommodation and health insurance. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) has emphasized...
The ADGM Arbitration Centre had introduced an innovative “Mediation in the Metaverse” initiative in 2023, which is designed to transform the global mediation landscape. Utilizing cutting-edge Web3 technology, this initiative offers a virtual counterpart to ADGM’s advanced arbitration and mediation facilities. By enabling participants to conduct mediation sessions through video from any location via desktop...
Doha, August 23, 2024 – Qatar has officially become a member of the Madrid System, a global mechanism for the registration of trademarks, as of August 3, 2024. This significant step enhances Qatar’s ability to protect intellectual property rights on an international scale and streamlines the process for businesses and individuals seeking trademark protection in...
