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Insights

Insights

Legal analysis and practical guidance on cross-border business, disputes, corporate, employment and IP matters across India and the UAE — including the Legal Help Desk, our Q&A column on the problems clients actually meet.

Compliance in the UAE

UAE’s New Compliance Framework for Finfluencers

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 […]

Amy Denny · 30 Jun 2025 · 6 minRead →
Labour Law

What to Do When Your Employer Refuses To Accept Your Resignation in the UAE

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, […]

Amy Denny · 28 Jun 2025 · 7 minRead →
Family law

Prenuptial Agreements in the UAE: A Comprehensive Guide for Expats and Residents

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 […]

Amy Denny · 27 Jun 2025 · 7 minRead →
Tax

Navigating Cross-Border Tax Disputes: UAE Issues Formal Guidance on Mutual Agreement Procedure (MAP)

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 […]

Ajay Denny · 26 Jun 2025 · 5 minRead →
Company Formation

Choosing the Right Investment Instrument for Startups: Legal Analysis of SAFEs, Convertible Notes, and Equity Rounds

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 […]

Vipul Kulshreshtha · 26 Jun 2025 · 5 minRead →
Family law

Civil Marriages for Muslim and Non-Muslim Expats in the UAE

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 […]

Amy Denny · 26 Jun 2025 · 7 minRead →
Real Estate

VAT and Tax Implications on Property Transactions in the UAE

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 […]

Aparna T Nambissan · 25 Jun 2025 · 4 minRead →
Real Estate

Dubai Tightens Power of Attorney Rules And Payment Rules – A New Alert For The Overseas Property Sellers

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 […]

Amy Denny · 20 Jun 2025 · 5 minRead →
Company Formation

Corporate Structuring Strategies for Investors in 2025: Freezone vs Mainland

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 […]

Vipul Kulshreshtha · 18 Jun 2025 · 6 minRead →
News

UAE’s Non-Oil Economy Drives Over 75% of GDP in 2024: Legal and Regulatory Implications for Businesses

The UAE’s 2024 economic data marks a pivotal shift in its development trajectory, with non-oil sectors contributing over 75.5% of real GDP — a clear indicator of the country’s accelerated diversification agenda under the “We the UAE 2031” vision.  The figures, published by the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre (FCSC), reveal that the UAE’s total […]

George Mathew · 17 Jun 2025 · 3 minRead →