Other Briefings
Ramadan 2026 in the UAE and Saudi Arabia: Compliance, Consumer Peaks, and Strategic Timing for Foreign Businesses
Ramadan 2026 in the UAE and Saudi Arabia should be treated as both a compliance-sensitive period and a predictable commercial peak, requiring early alignment on reduced working hours, overtime rules, staffing models, and regulatory timelines.
Chancellor Merz’s Visit to ADNOC Deepens UAE–Germany Relations
Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s visit to ADNOC underscores the deepening of UAE–Germany relations from LNG trade toward strategic integration.
GCC, India Launch Free Trade Agreement Talks: Trade, Investment, and Sector Implications
The GCC and India have restarted Free Trade Agreement talks, in a move that could shape tariffs, rules of origin, customs procedures.
UAE’s Commercial Companies Law Amendments: Corporate Structuring and M&A Implications
The UAE’s 2025 amendments to the Commercial Companies Law enhance flexibility for onshore companies by introducing redomiciliation with continuity of legal personality, expanded constitutional rights, multiple share classes, and clearer in-kind contribution rules.
Oman Unveils VAT Refund Scheme for Tourists: Expected Impact on Retail and Tourism
Oman announced a new VAT refund scheme for tourists aiming to strengthen its retail and tourism competitiveness by aligning with regional (GCC) and global best practices.
UAE Capital Markets Overhaul: A Modern Framework for Investor Protection and Market Growth
The UAE new federal capital markets framework marks a decisive shift toward stronger, centralized regulation, expanding oversight to cross-border and modern financial activities while significantly enhancing investor protection.
UAE Tightens Telecom Devices Import Rules: What Global Suppliers and Distributors Need to Know
The UAE has clarified that all telecom devices imported into the country require a TDRA customs clearance permit, reinforcing that such equipment is treated as regulated goods rather than general consumer electronics. For importers and suppliers, this underscores the need for advance compliance planning, including type approval and shipment-level permits, to avoid customs delays and market access risks.
Tax Treatment of Vacation Rentals in Egypt: What Property Owners and Foreign Investors Need to Know
Vacation rentals in Egypt are taxable when they generate recurring income, and owners must comply with income tax, VAT (in some cases), and property tax rules based on how the property is actually used. Maintaining proper records, understanding licensing and rental regulations, and using professional property management or accounting support can help owners reduce tax risks and manage their investment effectively.
GCC–Portugal Relations: Strategic Engagement, Economic Ties, and Emerging Opportunities
GCC–Portugal relations are deepening through growing trade, and Gulf investment into Portuguese energy, infrastructure, and tourism sectors.
UAE–Vietnam Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) Enters Into Force
The UAE–Vietnam CEPA has entered into force, significantly deepening bilateral trade and investment ties through tariff liberalization, improved market access, and enhanced economic cooperation.
