Other Briefings
Dubai’s VARA Licensing Framework for Virtual Asset Businesses: A Practical Roadmap
Dubai’s VARA licensing regime follows a clear two-stage process, Approval to Incorporate and Full VASP License, balancing innovation with robust compliance and operational substance. While demanding, it offers regulatory clarity, global credibility, and a stable base for virtual asset firms operating from the UAE.
UAE President’s January 19 India Visit Yields Strategic Defense, Trade, and Investment Push
UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s brief official visit to India reinforced deepening strategic ties, with leaders agreeing to double bilateral trade to US$200 billion by 2032 and advancing cooperation in defense, energy, technology, and infrastructure.
Ramadan 2026 in the Gulf: Early Timeline Confirmation and Implications for Business and Investors
The UAE has confirmed that the Islamic month of Shaaban started on January 20, 2026, paving the way for Ramadan 2026 dates.
Saudi Arabia Opens Tadawul Main Market to All Foreign Investors from February 2026
Saudi Arabia will allow all foreign investors to directly access Tadawul’s Main Market from February 1, 2026, following CMA regulatory reforms.
Saudi Arabia’s New Sports Law: Regulatory Changes and Sector-Wide Implications
Saudi Arabia’s new Sports Law establishes a unified regulatory framework that formalizes the sports sector as a commercial industry, introducing clearer rules on licensing, governance, investment, and dispute resolution.
Türkiye and UK Sign Trade Plan Ahead of FTA Upgrade
Türkiye and the United Kingdom have signed a 16-point JETCO action plan to accelerate negotiations on upgrading their 2021 Free Trade Agreement (FTA), with the aim of lifting bilateral trade toward US$40 billion and deepening cooperation in trade and investment.
ADGM Court Confirms Mandatory Seat Law Overrides Arbitration Rules in US$250 Million Freezing Order Case
The ADGM Court of Appeal confirmed that mandatory arbitration law at the seat prevails over institutional rules, despite LCIA non-compliance.
Egypt’s Renewable Energy Pivot: Investment Trends and Outlook
Egypt’s renewable energy transition is advancing through asset privatization, large-scale Chinese and European investment, and integrated energy–water infrastructure, positioning renewables as a core pillar of economic reform and climate resilience.
UAE’s Child Digital Safety Law: Key Takeaways for Businesses and Service Providers
The UAE Child Digital Safety Law introduces a comprehensive, risk-based framework regulating digital platforms, internet service providers, and custodians, with broad extraterritorial reach and significant obligations relating to child protection, data privacy, age verification, content moderation, and reporting.
Dubai Launches New Crypto Framework in DIFC
The DFSA has implemented major updates to its Crypto Token framework in the DIFC, shifting responsibility for token suitability assessments from the regulator to authorised firms and removing the list of Recognised Crypto Tokens.
