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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.

Arbitration

Advantages of Arbitration over Litigation in the UAE

Disputes are an inevitable part of doing business, and how they are resolved can significantly impact a company’s operations and reputation. In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the choice between litigation and arbitration is crucial for businesses. Arbitration, a private method of resolving disputes outside of traditional court systems, has gained prominence in the UAE […]

Merrya Ginto · 20 Dec 2024 · 5 minRead →
News

UAE’s New Health Insurance Scheme for Private Sector Workers: A Legal Perspective

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 […]

Madhav Vinod Krishna · 17 Dec 2024 · 3 minRead →
Corporate and Commercial

Legal and Regulatory Changes in Al Reem Island post-transition

This Article is part of our article on the Expansion of Al Reem Island of ADGM. This Article focuses more on the regulatory frameworks and legal arenas during and post the transition from Abu Dhabi Mainland to Al Reem Island. The major shift that the business will face during or post the transition is the […]

Aparna T Nambissan · 11 Dec 2024 · 6 minRead →
Tax

UAE Introduces 15% Corporate Tax on Large Multinational Companies

In alignment with global tax reforms spearheaded by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), the UAE is set to introduce a 15% Domestic Minimum Top-up Tax (DMTT) on large multinational companies. This will be implemented from 1st January 2025. This move forms part of the UAE’s adoption of the Global Minimum Tax (Pillar […]

Ajay Denny & Benoy P Jacob · 10 Dec 2024 · 4 minRead →
Arbitration

Arbitration in the Web 3.0 Era: Navigating Disputes in a Decentralized Landscape

For a deeper understanding of how arbitration is practiced in the UAE, its advantages, and the legal framework supporting it, refer to our comprehensive guide on Arbitration in UAE.  The rapid evolution of Web 3.0 technologies, including blockchain, cryptocurrencies, and the metaverse, has ushered in a new era of digital interactions and transactions. As these […]

Madhav Vinod Krishna · 7 Dec 2024 · 4 minRead →
News

Indian Consulate in Dubai Issues New Rules for Repatriation of Mortal Remains of Deceased Expats

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 […]

Reshma Rose Jacob · 6 Dec 2024 · 2 minRead →
Intellectual Property

Trademark Registration in the UAE: Steps, Fees and Timeline (2026)

Trademark registration is a vital step for businesses to protect their brand identity, build consumer trust, and gain a competitive advantage in today’s global market. In the UAE, trademarks are governed by Federal Decree-Law No. 36 of 2021 on Trademarks, which provides a comprehensive legal framework for trademark protection. This guide elaborates on the trademark […]

Hemakshi Prabhu · 6 Dec 2024 · 8 minRead →
Legal Help Desk

End of Service Gratuity or DEWS: What do I get from my DIFC employer?

Q: I’ve been with my DIFC-registered employer for over two years, but they just enrolled us in DEWS this month (November). Now that I’ve resigned, how does DEWS work, and is it different from the End of Service Gratuity?  A: Great question—let’s break it down for you! Yes, DEWS (Dubai Employee Workplace Savings) is different […]

Legal Help Desk · 5 Dec 2024 · 2 minRead →
Intellectual Property

Intellectual Property in UAE Free Zones: Key Considerations and Detailed Insights

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is recognized for its progressive business environment and legal infrastructure that supports innovation and entrepreneurship. The UAE’s free zones, specialized areas offering numerous economic and operational advantages, are key drivers of foreign investment. These free zones, such as Dubai Internet City (DIC), Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA), and Abu Dhabi […]

Hemakshi Prabhu · 5 Dec 2024 · 6 minRead →
Legal Help Desk

In supply contracts can we include penalties for delays?

Question: “We’ve just signed a big supply contract, but now the vendor is delaying deliveries. The agreement doesn’t clearly define penalties for delays. Is there a way to fix this or protect ourselves moving forward?” Answer: Ah, the classic “missing penalty clause” predicament—a favorite among vendors who test your patience and inventory levels simultaneously. First, […]

Legal Help Desk · 30 Nov 2024 · 2 minRead →