Investments
Oraseya Capital doubled to AED 1bn: AI and fintech bet
DIEZ doubled Oraseya Capital from AED 500m to AED 1bn. Max per-company ticket rises to $6m, mandate now extends beyond Series B.
News
UAE Business News
Changes in UAE tax, visas, regulation and the economy — concise, fact-based, with a link to the primary source.
Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi extends Tajer no-office licence by one year
Abu Dhabi's DED gives Tajer licence holders an extra year to run businesses without a physical office — if their current period ends in 2026.
Tax
UAE e-invoicing: appoint an ASP by 30 October 2026
By 30 October UAE businesses with AED 50m+ annual revenue must appoint an accredited ASP for e-invoicing. Go-live stays 1 January 2027.
Tax
UAE VAT: supplier checks mandatory from 1 October 2026
FTA Decision 13 of 2026: verify suppliers before claiming input VAT. AED 10K/100K/375K thresholds; bank letter above AED 375K.
UAE–Saudi Arabia
UAE and Saudi Arabia sign MoU on power grid and rail links
Riyadh, 8 October 2026: UAE and Saudi Arabia signed an MoU on power grid interconnection, electricity trading and cross-border rail for goods.
Corporate Tax
UAE Corporate Tax: return & pay by 31 October 2026
UAE companies with FY ending 31 January 2026 must file corporate tax return and pay by 31 October 2026. Late filing is AED 500 per month.
ADGM
ADGM FSRA opens Fees + General Rulebook consultation
ADGM FSRA launches consultation on its Fees and General Rulebook — new supervision fee, higher late-filing fees. Comments due 6 November 2026.
ADGM
ADGM fines PKF Accountants $100,000 for ISA audit failings
ADGM's Registration Authority fined audit firm PKF Accountants USD 100,000 for ISA audit failings. What ADGM-registered firms should check now.
Dubai Cashless Strategy
Dubai Cashless beats 2026 target: 90.1% digital, Dh8bn uplift
Dubai Finance: cashless index at 90.1%, Dh8 billion economic uplift, 99.66% of government collections digital. What it means for business in the UAE.
Economy
UAE H1 2026 GDP: Dh961.9bn, non-oil share hits 79.2%
FCSC: UAE real GDP in H1 2026 reached Dh961.9bn (+0.4% YoY), the non-oil share hit a record 79.2%, and finance and insurance grew 14.8%.
ADPIC
ADPIC × Boring Company sign tunnel MoU in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi's ADPIC and Elon Musk's Boring Company signed an MoU on 8 October at LIVEX 2026: underground transport and utility tunnels.
Mubadala
Mubadala: $39bn a year and Asia share rising from 10% to 13%
Mubadala to maintain $39bn in annual investment and lift Asia's share from 10% to 13%. What it means for the UAE and its businesses.
ADGM
Capital Group lands FSRA licence in ADGM for $3.6T flows
Capital Group ($3.6T AUM) secures FSRA licence to launch its first Middle East office in ADGM. What it means for UAE institutional investors.
CEPA
UAE and Thailand conclude CEPA negotiations in Bangkok
UAE and Thailand concluded CEPA talks. Non-oil trade jumped 75.4% YoY to $10.2bn in H1 2026. Here's what the agreement means for UAE businesses.
Economy
CBUAE raises UAE 2027 GDP forecast to 10.4%
The CBUAE's September Quarterly Economic Review raised the UAE's 2027 GDP forecast from 9.8% to 10.4%, driven by 5 mbd oil output and +26.8% hydrocarbons.
Tax
UAE Top-up Tax: MNE registration deadline 30 November 2026
UAE FTA issues TTGREG1 on Top-up Tax (QDMTT, Pillar Two). MNEs with FY ending by 30.04.2026 — register by 30.11.2026, AED 10,000 per entity.
Tokenised deposits
HSBC and Ant International launch tokenised deposits in UAE
HSBC and Ant International ran tokenised deposit pilots in the UAE: AED transfers inside the country and USD to Hong Kong and Singapore in real time.
Agentic AI
Dubai launches Create AI Agents Championship with Dh2.5m
Dubai launches Create AI Agents Championship: 4 categories at Dh550k each + Dh1m for AI Agent of the Year, open worldwide, entries close December 2026.
Real estate
Dubai Real Estate Q3 2026: AED 92.9bn Across 37,429 Deals
Dubai Q3 2026 real estate: 37,429 deals worth AED 92.9bn, primary market 57% of value, 81% of deals under AED 3M. What this means for investors.
Taxes
UAE FTA Issues Top-up Tax Guide for MNEs: Scope and Registration
UAE FTA has issued the Top-up Tax Guide on Scope and Registration for MNE Groups: QDMTT under Pillar Two, EUR 750m threshold, 15% minimum ETR.
Real Estate
Dubai shared housing: 10 duties and fines up to Dh1 million
Dubai Municipality has published 10 obligations for shared housing owners under Law 4/2026. Fines Dh500–Dh1m, one year to comply.
Banking
CBUAE and Bank Al-Maghrib Sign Payments, Islamic Finance MoUs
CBUAE and Bank Al-Maghrib sign two MoUs: payment system linkage, cards and CBDC plus supervisory coordination and Shariah-compliant financing.
Taxes
FTA Requests Master File and Local File from UAE Businesses
The UAE's FTA is actively requesting Master File and Local File for transfer pricing. Thresholds — AED 3.15bn and AED 200m. Response window — 30 days.
CBUAE
UAE and Egypt renew Dh5bn currency swap for five more years
On 29 September CBUAE and Central Bank of Egypt renewed a Dh5bn (EGP 69bn) swap for five more years. What it means for UAE firms trading with Egypt.
UAE-EAEU EPA
UAE-EAEU EPA enters into force — trade hits $33.6bn
UAE-EAEU EPA in force 6 Oct 2026: 86% of lines, 2025 trade $33.6bn (+16%), $50bn target by 2032, EAEU exporters save at least $266m/year in duties.
Non-oil GDP
UAE non-oil GDP up 4.8%, PMI holds 55.3 — 20-month high
UAE non-oil GDP grew 4.8% in Q1 2026, share rising to 79.4%. S&P Global PMI held at 55.3 in September — 20-month high; export orders at ~2-year peak.
Golden Visa
Dubai Golden Visa for Teachers: 223 Awarded on Teachers Day
Dubai keeps granting Golden Visas to top educators: 223 of 435 approved in the first round under Sheikh Hamdan's initiative, 835+ applications.
Bloomberg
UK to UAE: $160bn HNW Wealth Shift — Bloomberg Analysis
Bloomberg: ~$160bn of UK billionaire wealth left Britain over 2 years, half before the April 2025 non-dom reform. UAE in the top three destinations.
WIPO GII 2026
UAE enters world top-25 innovation economies — WIPO GII 2026
UAE enters the world top-25 innovation economies for the first time: 25th of 139 in WIPO GII 2026, up five places, #1 globally in four indicators.
VARA
UAE FIU and Dubai VARA Sign MoU on Crypto Financial Crime
On 5 October UAE FIU and Dubai VARA signed an MoU to share financial intelligence on crypto. What VASPs in Dubai need to know.
VAT
FTA Decision 17/2026: Input VAT on Employee Expenses in UAE
From 1 October UAE employers can recover input VAT on six categories of employee expenses — transport, food, housing, telecom, parking. The rules.
VAT
UAE KYS Rule: FTA Decision 13/2026 Input VAT Live Oct 1
From 1 October UAE businesses must verify suppliers before claiming input VAT. FTA Decision 13/2026 sets AED 10k, 100k and 375k thresholds.
AI Everything
AI Everything Abu Dhabi: 400+ firms, 200 investors at ADNEC
6-7 Oct at ADNEC: 400+ AI firms, 200 investors with $91B AUM, 60 countries. What the UAE's biggest AI summit means for business in Abu Dhabi.
Fitch
Fitch affirms Ras Al Khaimah at A+, lifts 2026 GDP forecast
Fitch affirmed Ras Al Khaimah at A+ and revised 2026 GDP forecast upward from −1.8% to +1.5%, with 5% rebound in 2027. What it means for business.
MPCI
UAE MPCI goes live: pre-load cargo filing mandatory from Oct 1
From 1 Oct 2026 the UAE requires maritime pre-load cargo data filed with NAIC 24 hours before loading. What it changes for importers and exporters.
UAE economy
IIF: UAE government debt falls to 31% of GDP in Q2 2026
IIF: UAE government debt fell to 31% of GDP in Q2 2026 (from 32.9%). Global debt hit a record $365.5 trillion. What that means for UAE businesses.
E-invoicing
UAE e-invoicing: Dh50M+ firms must name ASP by October 30
Oct 30, 2026 is the ASP deadline for UAE firms with revenue over Dh50M. Dh5,000/month fine; go-live Jan 1, 2027. What large taxpayers must do in 27 days.
RAKEZ
RAKEZ × Rakbank: UAE's first 60-minute business account
RAKEZ and Rakbank launch UAE's first 60-minute business account: zero minimum balance 12 months, AED 1,000 cashback, zero transfer fees to 31 Oct 2026.
UAE VAT
UAE VAT Rules Change on 1 October 2026 — Cabinet 149
Cabinet Decision 149 of 2026 rewrites the UAE VAT Executive Regulation: composite supplies, healthcare, cash rule, and an AED 5m Capital Asset threshold.
Aldar Properties
Aldar and Arada seal Dh15bn Abu Dhabi property JV
Aldar and Arada sign a Dh15bn ($4bn) JV: a 1.5 million sqm community at Seih Sdeirah plus three Yas Island plots — Arada’s first Abu Dhabi move.
CBUAE
CBUAE lifts UAE 2027 GDP forecast to 10.4%
CBUAE lifts UAE 2027 real GDP forecast to 10.4% (from 9.8%); 2026 at 1.6%, inflation 2.4%. What it means for business in the Emirates.
AI
ADNOC-Presight AIQ Brings AI to Indian Refineries
AIQ, the ADNOC-Presight AI venture, enters India via a deal with an unnamed oil & gas conglomerate — its eighth export market.
AWS
UAE business AI adoption hits 72% as AWS commits AED 20.1bn
72% of UAE businesses now use AI (up from 53%); AWS commits AED 20.1bn through 2037 and launches UAE Sovereign Launchpad with e&.
Sahm Financial
Sahm Financial opens US and Saudi stocks to UAE investors
DFSA-regulated Sahm Financial Limited (DIFC) opened access to US and Saudi equity markets for UAE retail investors via the Sahm App on 29 September 2026.
CBD
CBD Joins CBMT: First Non-European Bank on Tokenised Deposits
Commercial Bank of Dubai joined CBMT — Germany's tokenised deposits network for B2B payments — as the first lender from outside Europe.
Fuel prices
UAE Fuel Prices: Petrol Up ~16% From 1 October 2026
From 1 October UAE petrol rose 15.8–16.6%: Special 95 at AED 4.28, Super 98 at AED 4.40, Diesel at AED 4.80 — a four-year high.
FTA Decision 13
UAE KYS Rules Take Effect: FTA Decision 13 Starts 1 October
From 1 October 2026 the UAE requires supplier verification before claiming input VAT. KYS thresholds: AED 10k / 100k / 375k and a written policy.
UAE petrol prices
UAE petrol prices from 1 October 2026: Super 98 at Dh4.40
From 1 October, UAE petrol +~16%: Super 98 Dh4.40, Special 95 Dh4.28, diesel Dh4.80. Third straight monthly rise. What it means for business.
Temasek
Temasek to open Abu Dhabi and Riyadh offices in H1 2027
Singapore's Temasek (S$518bn portfolio) will open Abu Dhabi and Riyadh offices in H1 2027. What the move means for UAE asset management.
Aldar
Aldar & Arada sign Dh15bn JV in Abu Dhabi: Yas + Seih Sdeirah
Aldar and Arada sign a Dh15bn ($4bn) JV: up to 1.5m sqm masterplan at Seih Sdeirah plus three plots on Yas Island. Arada's first Abu Dhabi entry.
CBUAE
UAE and Egypt renew Dh5bn currency swap deal for 5 more years
CBUAE and CBE renewed a Dh5bn currency swap for five years. What it means for UAE businesses on the Egypt corridor — settlements in local currencies.
Aldar
Aldar hits Dh5bn on Talay, Yas Riva Reserve — Russians in top-5
Aldar Properties booked over Dh5bn ($1.36bn) at Talay (Saadiyat) and Yas Riva Reserve (Yas). Emiratis took 31%; UK, Russia, Jordan, India top.
Citi
Citi launches Token Services in UAE — USD and EUR on blockchain
Citi extends Token Services to the UAE: 24/7 USD and EUR cross-border liquidity via tokenised deposits, aimed at corporate treasury and cash management.
Botim
Botim launches direct UAE-to-Philippines transfers into GCash
Botim now sends money from the UAE directly into GCash wallets in the Philippines — a new remittance route for 548,000 Filipino users in the UAE.
China Securities
China Securities Opens DIFC Office — 8th Major Chinese Bank
China Securities receives a DIFC licence and DFSA authorisation (28 Sep 2026), becoming the 8th major Chinese bank in the free zone.
JD.com
JD.com to Build Logistics Hub in Kezad — 1,000 Direct Jobs
JINGDONG Property (JD.com) to build a 150,000 sqm automated logistics hub in Kezad Al Ma'mourah — 1,000 direct jobs, launch in 2028.
HNWI
UAE — Top HNWI Magnet: 9,800 Millionaires in 2025, Dubai #1
Henley 2025 forecast: UAE to attract 9,800 millionaires — a world record. Dubai #1 in the Savills World Cities Prime Residential Index. What sits behind it.
Corporate Tax
UAE Corporate Tax: file your FY 2025 return by 30 September
30 September 2026 is the deadline for UAE Corporate Tax FY 2025 filings via EmaraTax. Who must file, how to file, and the penalties for late filing.
DFM
DFM: EFG Hermes ONE Launches Fully Digital Investor Onboarding
Sept 27, 2026: EFG Hermes ONE brings digital DFM onboarding — get an Investor NIN and open a brokerage account from your phone. H1: +42,864 new investors.
ADX
ADX Joins SWIFT: BIC ADSEAEADXXX Activated (25 Sept 2026)
ADX joined SWIFT on 25 Sept 2026 (BIC ADSEAEADXXX): a single post-trade messaging channel with 11,500+ institutions in 200+ countries. What it changes.
Remittances
India Bank Strike 28–30 Sept 2026: UAE Remittances Guide
Indian banks strike on 28–30 September 2026. What UAE remitters need to know: ATMs, UPI, Sunday banking on 27 Sept and how to plan urgent transfers.
Dubai Customs
Dubai Customs adds 60 days to duty suspension — total 180
Dubai Customs Notice 17/2026 (23.09.2026): +60 days added to duty suspension, 180 days total. Import for re-export, temporary admission and transit.
FAB
FAB sets AED 100 bn blue finance, first MENA UN principles bank
First Abu Dhabi Bank set an AED 100 bn blue finance target for 2026-2035 and became the first MENA bank to sign the UN Sustainable Blue Economy Principles.
Aldar
Aldar unveils Saadiyat Grove: 100+ brands, Q4 2026 launch
Aldar opens Saadiyat Grove in Q4 2026: 100+ global brands, 20 first-to-region concepts, 25,000 sqm Grade A offices, 1,000+ residences on Saadiyat Island.
VAT
Cabinet Decision 149 rewrites UAE VAT rules from 1 October 2026
Cabinet Decision 149 rewrites UAE VAT: no input tax on large cash payments, new apportionment, clearer composite supplies — from 1 October 2026.
ADFW
ADFW 2026: 300+ CEOs, $61tn in assets, 75 events, 8 stages
ADFW 2026 (7–10 Dec, Abu Dhabi): 300+ leaders with $61T in assets, 75 events on 8 stages, 10 new platforms, partners include IMF, UBS, Binance.
Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi extends Tajer office-free +1yr, Rowad to 4 years
On 24 Sept ADDED gave Tajer holders an extra office-free year and extended Rowad: 2→3 yrs pre-construction, 3→4 to production. 7,823 firms fine-waived.
ADGM
Bank al Etihad + Ethmar to launch Category 1 bank in ADGM
On 24 September Jordan-based Bank al Etihad and Abu Dhabi-based Ethmar signed an MoU to launch a new Category 1 bank in ADGM under FSRA.
Etihad Rail
Etihad Rail Dubai–Abu Dhabi passenger line launches September 30
On 30 September Etihad Rail opens the UAE's first inter-emirate passenger line Dubai–Abu Dhabi: ~57 minutes, 5 round trips, Comfort Dh39, Premium Dh109.
Meraas
Meraas: AED 1bn contract for Nad Al Sheba Gardens Phase 7
Meraas, 24 September: ~AED 1bn contract with GCC Contracting — 272 units at Nad Al Sheba Gardens Phase 7, handover Q2 2028, premium family segment.
Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi extends Tajer: +1 year without a physical office
ADDED, 24 September: Tajer +1 year without an office for 2026 expirations, industrial licence 2→3 years, and a fines waiver already applied to 7,823 firms.
Dubai
UBS 2026: Dubai is world's 3rd most affordable megacity
UBS Bubble Index 2026: Dubai ranks 3rd most affordable megacity worldwide (5y income vs London 11, HK 15). What it means for expat investors.
Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi extends Occupancy Certificate deadline to Nov 30, 2026
Abu Dhabi's DMT extended the Building Occupancy Certificate deadline to 30 November 2026. Up to Dh1M fine and Tawtheeq lease blocks for non-compliance.
Microsoft
Microsoft pledges $10bn+ for UAE, Gulf AI and cloud by 2030
Microsoft pledges $10bn+ through 2030 for cloud and AI across the UAE, Kuwait, Qatar and Saudi Arabia. What it changes for businesses in the Emirates.
MoHRE
UAE MoHRE flags 377 fake Emiratisation cases at 266 firms
UAE labour ministry uncovered 377 fake Emiratisation cases at 266 private firms in H1 2026. Fines reach Dh500,000 plus clawback of Nafis benefits.
EQT
EQT ($389B AUM) launches Middle East platform at ADGM Abu Dhabi
EQT ($389B AUM) launches Middle East platform and opens first office at ADGM Abu Dhabi on 23 Sept — Private Capital + Infrastructure live at launch.
UPI
UPI MDR from 15 October 2026: what UAE NRIs need to know
From 15 Oct 2026 India charges 0.4% MDR on UPI merchant payments above Rs2,000. Customers pay nothing. Family transfers and NRE/NRO moves stay free.
Etihad Rail
Etihad Rail Dubai–Abu Dhabi tickets on sale from Dh39, Sept 30
Ticket sales open 22 Sept for Etihad Rail Dubai↔Abu Dhabi. Comfort Dh39, Premium Dh109, five round trips a day, service starts 30 September 2026.
Dirham
UAE Dirham Symbol Officially Enters Unicode 18.0
Unicode 18.0 officially adds the UAE dirham sign (U+20C3). What it means for keyboards, invoices, contracts and pricing in the UAE.
Paymob
Paymob raises $35M pre-Series C led by Mubadala and EBRD
Paymob closes $35M pre-Series C co-led by Mubadala and EBRD. What the deal shifts for SME merchants and payments in the UAE.
PhonePe
PhonePe wins CBUAE in-principle nod for two UAE licences
UAE Central Bank grants PhonePe in-principle approval on two payment licences — RPSCS and SVF. What it shifts for UAE merchants, expats and the market.
T-Sukuk
UAE Retail T-Sukuk II: 5 years, from AED 1,000, rate 22 Sep
UAE MoF launches its second retail T-Sukuk: 5-year tenor, from AED 1,000, profit rate on 22 September. Terms, receiving banks and what it means for expats.
UAE
UAE Corporate Tax: 9 Days Left to the 30 September Deadline
9 days to the deadline: UAE firms with a 31 Dec 2025 fiscal year must file corporate tax by 30 September 2026. Penalties and checklist.
UAE
Abu Dhabi × Korea: ADGM, Hanwha Sign Stablecoin, RWA MoUs
On 16 Sept 2026 in Seoul, ADGM, ADIO, Hana Financial and Hanwha signed MoUs on stablecoins, tokenised assets and cross-border payments with Korea.
UAE
FTA Decision 13/2026: UAE Know Your Supplier from Oct 2026
From 1 October 2026 the UAE requires Know Your Supplier checks — no verification, no input VAT credit. Thresholds: AED 10,000 / 100,000 / 375,000.
UAE
Aldar launches Yas Riva Reserve: 292 villas from Dh8.5m
Aldar launches Yas Riva Reserve on Yas Island: 292 villas (4–6BR), 45 on canal with pontoon option. Sales open Sept 26 from Dh8.5m.
UAE
THE WADI on Yas Island: Cosmo launches Dh6bn masterplan
Cosmo Developments launches THE WADI on Yas Island: Dh6bn, 3,950 homes on 140,700 sqm. Phase 1 = 530 apts (E1+E2), handover Q4 2030.
UAE
Sharjah–Oman corridor: goods up 66% in three months
Sharjah–Oman corridor: 66% goods jump in three months, Dh1.7bn value, 34,000+ trucks via Khatmat Malaha and Al Madam, Sohar/Duqm/Salalah outlet.
UAE
Etihad Rail launches direct Fujairah → ICAD cargo service
Direct rail-freight route Fujairah Terminals → ICAD Abu Dhabi launched 20 Sept 2026. ICAD gets UN LOCODE ‘AECAD’: clearance and inspection now inland.
UAE
UAE VAT rules updated: Cabinet Decision 149/2026 from October 1
UAE MoF unveils Cabinet Decision 149/2026: from October 1 new VAT rules on cash-payment input tax, composite supply and employee accommodation.
UAE
OCTA raises $3.5M from MEVP for AI accounting
On 17.09.2026 UAE-based OCTA closed a $3.5M seed led by MEVP and rolled out OCTA Flow — AI agents for bookkeeping and month-end close. Total $5.6M.
UAE
ADGM FSRA finalises new Funds Framework Rules — 2026 update
On 16.09.2026 ADGM FSRA rolled out Sub-Threshold FM (up to $200M), Institutional FM (from $5M per LP) and IFAM. Transition until 31.03.2027.
UAE
Abu Dhabi's DCT unveils VX Guidelines for 11 tourism touchpoints
DCT Abu Dhabi released VX Guidelines: a unified service benchmark across 11 tourism touchpoints — from airport to hotels and malls. Validated by ADQCC.
UAE
Abu Dhabi hotels: healthy-menu rules take effect on October 1
From October 1, 2026 DCT-licensed hotels and F&B outlets in Abu Dhabi must offer SEHHI-compliant menus and low-sodium salt by default. Checklist inside.
UAE
UAE Tourism 2025: Dh251.3bn Contribution to Economy
UAE tourism contributed Dh251.3bn in 2025 (+3% YoY); international visitor spend Dh209bn; hotel revenue Dh49.21bn. What it means for business.
UAE
Nakheel × Metac: Dh800m Deal for 537 Dubai Islands Homes
Nakheel awards Metac a Dh800m+ contract for 537 Bay Grove homes on Dubai Islands (phases 1 & 3), 7 buildings, completion by late 2028.
UAE
Dubai Greenlights 80km, 12-Lane Fourth Corridor (Dh3.5bn)
Crown Prince Hamdan approves the Fourth Corridor: 80km, 12 lanes, linking DWC and Etihad Rail. Phase 1 Dh3.5bn, journey time –60%.
UAE
UAE Central Bank Raises Base Rate to 3.9% After Fed Hike
CBUAE lifts base rate by 25 bps to 3.9% effective 17 September, tracking the Fed's first hike since 2023 to a 3.75–4.0% range.
UAE
L'IMAD Raises AD Ports Group Stake to 98.5% at Dh6.25 a Share
Abu Dhabi's L'IMAD closes voluntary tender offer at Dh6.25 a share via ADQ, taking AD Ports Group stake past 98.5%. Settlement by 9 October 2026.
UAE
NEOPAY and CBD: SME financing in the UAE via POS data
NEOPAY and Commercial Bank of Dubai give eligible UAE merchants access to CBD financing on POS data — working capital for SMEs simplified.
UAE
ADX × DFNS: digital-asset wallet and tokenisation for UAE
ADX × DFNS: integrated digital-asset wallet and tokenisation — issuance, listing and trading of on-chain instruments on Abu Dhabi's exchange.
UAE
Emirates accepts Jaywan cards from Sept 16 with special fares
From 16 September Emirates accepts Jaywan cards on emirates.com and in Retail — special fares for Royal, Prestige and Prepaid holders until 29.02.2028.
UAE
CBUAE C 2/2026: new SME banking protections start Sept 13
UAE Central Bank Regulation C 2/2026 (SME Customer Protection) took effect on 13 September 2026 — fair pricing, complaint rules, account mobility.
UAE
UAE Central Bank Law No. 6 of 2025: one-year window ends Sept 15
The one-year Article 184 reconciliation window under the UAE's new Central Bank Law (Decree-Law 6/2025) ends on 15 September 2026.
UAE
FTA steps up UAE transfer pricing audits before Sept 30
Sept 30 is the first UAE corporate tax filing deadline. FTA is already requesting transfer pricing files — who is at risk and how to prepare.
UAE
CBUAE enacts new operational risk regulation for banks
On 14 September a new CBUAE operational risk regulation took effect: 4-hour incident notice, outsourcing responsibility stays with the bank.
UAE
Space42 and Viasat co-found Equatys: up to $1bn D2D venture
UAE's Space42 and US Viasat co-found Equatys with up to $1bn equity: a shared D2D platform for 2,800 satellites, service from 2029.
UAE
Dubai welcomes 6.97m tourists in first 8 months of 2026
Sheikh Mohammed at ATM 2026: Dubai drew 6.97m overnight visitors and 21.61m occupied hotel room nights in Jan–Aug. Western Europe 20%, South Asia 17%.
UAE
Abu Dhabi off-plan mortgages: 50% paid, bank steps in
Adrec now registers mortgages on Abu Dhabi off-plan homes for buyers who have paid 50%. Aldar and ADCB closed the first deal on 4 September 2026.
UAE
UAE Open Finance: how CBUAE is reshaping Emirates banking
CBUAE Open Finance (Circular 3 of 2025) mandates UAE banks, PSPs and insurers to open customer data via consent-based APIs. What changes in 2026.
Exports
ECI × Euler Hermes MoU: permanent UAE–Germany reinsurance
ECI (UAE) and Euler Hermes (Germany) move toward a permanent reinsurance framework for exporters — Germany's ECGS covered ~€1.4bn in the Gulf in 2025, near-2× 2024.
EDB
EDB Hits Dh30bn Milestone: 1,000+ Firms, 50,000 Jobs
EDB approves Dh30bn+ for 1,000+ firms across 5 priority sectors — five-year Operation 300Bn mandate delivered, Dh14bn to industrial GDP, 50,000+ jobs.
DP World
DP World prices €750m green + $750m bond, oversubscribed
DP World priced €750m 6-yr green notes and $750m 10-yr conventional bonds on 10 Sept 2026; books topped €1.5bn and $1.3bn with an 11-bank syndicate.
BRICS
UAE–BRICS non-oil trade hits $312bn in 2025, up 28.5%
UAE–BRICS non-oil trade reached $312bn in 2025, up from $243bn a year earlier — nearly a third of the country's non-oil external flows.
Corporate Tax
UAE FTA CTP011: downward transfer pricing rule clarified
FTA drops pre-approval for downward TP adjustments — but every one must be disclosed in the tax return, no AED 40M/4M threshold applies.
UAE–Germany
UAE to invest €40bn in Germany: MBZ Berlin visit outcomes
During his Berlin state visit MBZ pledged a €40bn UAE investment in Germany — AI, data centres, energy. €10bn to Bavaria, 29 B2B MoUs worth €9.36bn.
UAE Cabinet
UAE waives IP fees for student inventors, People of Determination
UAE Cabinet Resolution 136 takes effect on 14 September 2026 — waiving a set of industrial property fees for student inventors and People of Determination.
Mubadala
Mubadala Takes ~$1B Minority Stake in Luckin Coffee
Abu Dhabi's Mubadala backs China's Luckin Coffee (36,000+ stores) with ~$1B minority stake alongside Centurium Capital. Announced 10 Sept 2026.
DP World
DP World & GulfCap: 222-hectare SEZ in Mombasa, 20,000 jobs
On 9 September 2026 DP World and GulfCap Africa formalised the 222-hectare Mombasa SEZ: Phase 1 covers 40 ha with 20,000+ jobs and 60+ tenants queued.
UAE Fintech
NEOPAY × Deem Finance: embedded SME lending in the UAE
On 11 September 2026, NEOPAY and Deem Finance launched embedded SME lending in the UAE: pre-approved offers from POS data, no separate application.
UAE real estate
Azizi Florence: Dh30bn — first Sharjah master-project
Azizi Developments launches Florence in Sharjah: 10,630 units, Dh30bn. First master-project outside Dubai; freehold, 3BR townhouses from Dh1.89m.
UAE economy
UAE plans €40bn investment in Germany, €10bn for Bavaria
UAE unveiled a €40bn (Dh170bn) investment in Germany on 10 Sept 2026, with €10bn for Bavaria. Focus: AI, 1-GW data centres, industry, energy.
UAE economy
MAF H1 2026: record Dh2.5bn EBITDA, profit up 25%
MAF posts record H1 2026: EBITDA Dh2.5bn (+11%), net operating profit Dh1.8bn (+25%) and a development pipeline above Dh100bn.
Fintech
Network International × DDSC: UAE's first in-store AED stablecoin
Network International and DDSC have launched the UAE's first in-store pilot for AED-backed stablecoin payments — on POS at M&S Dubai and LuLu Abu Dhabi.
Abu Dhabi
IHC to acquire 80% of Marlan Holding, entering space economy
Abu Dhabi's IHC, via International Tech Group, is buying 80% of Marlan Holding — a direct move into UAE satellites and space economy.
Dubai
Dubai Holding signs Dh5 billion contract with CSCEC ME
Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed witnessed Dubai Holding’s largest contract: AED 5bn to CSCEC ME for a new HQ (2029) and Jumeirah Residences Emirates Towers.
Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi 2026: freelance permits +261%, licences +21%
ADRA reports Abu Dhabi freelance permits jumped 261% and new economic licences 21% in Q1 2026. What it means for those entering the UAE market.
Abu Dhabi
ADQ moves to take AD Ports 100% private by October 2026
ADQ, a unit of Abu Dhabi's L'imad, offers Dh6.25 for the last 24.58% of AD Ports. Tender closes 15 September, settlement by 9 October 2026.
Abu Dhabi
ADGM nears 50,000 workforce and 190 asset managers in H1 2026
ADGM reports 49,027 professionals (+34%), 190 fund/asset managers and AUM up 54% in H1 2026. What this means for UAE investors and businesses.
Tax
UAE tightens VAT: Cabinet Decision 149 on cash, housing, medical
Cabinet Decision No.149 tightens input tax on large cash payments, updates staff housing and medical VAT rules. What changes for UAE businesses.
Real estate
Alabbar: Dubai property market to reach 'nice balance' by 2027
At AIM Congress, Emaar founder Mohamed Alabbar forecast a 'nice balance' for Dubai's property market by 2027 and a 5–10% price adjustment.
Dubai
Dubai Chambers to train 14,000 companies on Agentic AI
Dubai Chambers Academy launched Agentic AI tracks on 1 Sep 2026 for 14,000+ companies under a Sheikh Hamdan directive aimed at 2028 leadership.
Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi: 65 Emirati Dhiyafa hotel standards by Q1 2027
DCT Abu Dhabi rolls out Emirati Dhiyafa: 65 standards across 8 guest-journey stages, mandatory for the emirate's hotels and hotel apartments by Q1 2027.
Visas
Dubai Click and Travel: 12–15-second mobile passport check
GDRFA Dubai has launched Click and Travel: officers with mobile devices clear passengers in the terminal in 12–15 seconds. Pilot handled 31,373 passengers.
Fintech
PayTabs to Buy Amazon Payment Services MENA in $100M+ Deal
PayTabs to acquire Amazon Payment Services MENA in a $100M+ deal. Combined $40B/year in transactions. What UAE merchants should know.
Real Estate
Dubai Rent Now, Pay Later: 12-month zero-interest scheme
DLD is preparing Rent Now, Pay Later: bank pays landlord full annual rent upfront, tenant repays monthly over up to 12 months at 0%. Launch — September 2026.
Real Estate
Abu Dhabi off-plan mortgage: Aldar and ADCB do first deal
ADREC opens off-plan mortgage in Abu Dhabi at 50% payment. First deal Aldar+ADCB, six banks joined, entry in the Initial Real Estate Register.
Banking
Standard Chartered opens BTC/ETH spot in DIFC under DFSA
Standard Chartered is the first G-SIB to open BTC/USD and ETH/USD institutional spot in DIFC under DFSA (3 Sept). Deliverable, via bank's FX rails.
Real estate
Dubai Land Department launches AI Initial Registration
Dubai Land Department launched AI-powered Initial Registration on 3 September: document reading, Project 360, escrow — up to 80% less data entry.
SME
UAE SME licences jump 900% in 20 years — Council takes stock
UAE Council for Entrepreneurship: SME licences up 900% since 2000 and 140% since 2020. SMEs are 95% of companies and 85% of private jobs.
Fintech
Airwallex bets $43M on UAE, targets full CBUAE licence
Airwallex commits $43M to the UAE over five years and holds CBUAE in-principle approval for SVF and RPS (Category II) — full launch in 2026.
Infrastructure
Etihad Rail: Abu Dhabi to Dubai in 57 min from 30 September
Etihad Rail's Al Yalayis station in Dubai opens on 30 September 2026. Abu Dhabi to Dubai in 57 minutes, fares from AED 55.
Banking
CBUAE C 2/2026: new SME banking protection rules from 13 Sept
From 13 Sept 2026, CBUAE Regulation C 2/2026 makes UAE banks open SME accounts in 3 days, answer complaints in 30 and drop closing fees after 6 months.
Real Estate
Dubai DLD 2026: sale proceeds only to seller's own UAE account
From 2026, Dubai Land Department accepts property sale money only into a UAE bank account under the Title Deed owner's name. POA payments are banned.
UAE
UAE Cabinet Decision 107/2026: 24 hours to withdraw fake goods
UAE Cabinet Decision 107/2026 sets a strict recall regime: suppliers must pull counterfeit goods within 24 hours and issue a bilingual notice within 48.
UAE
Aldar and ADCB close Abu Dhabi's first off-plan mortgage
ADREC now lets banks sit on the off-plan mortgage certificate before handover. Aldar+ADCB closed the first deal: 50% down, rate from 3.49%.
UAE
VARA and Securitize sign Dubai tokenisation MoU
3 Sept 2026: Dubai's VARA and Securitize (NYSE:SECZ, $4.9B tokenisation AUM leader) signed a framework MoU on regulated tokenised markets.
UAE
Standard Chartered launches BTC/ETH spot in DIFC (DFSA)
On 3 Sept 2026 Standard Chartered launched BTC/USD and ETH/USD spot in UAE via DIFC under DFSA — the first G-SIB in the GCC market.
UAE
New CBUAE Law 6/2025: 12 days left for banks, PSPs and VASPs
Federal Decree-Law 6/2025 transition ends 16 September 2026. UAE banks, PSPs, insurers, VASPs have 12 days to align with the new CBUAE Law.
UAE
UAE e-invoicing: ASP deadline Oct 30, 2026 — under 2 months left
UAE large businesses (revenue over AED 50M) have under 2 months to appoint an ASP. Deadline: 30 October 2026. E-invoicing go-live: 1 January 2027.
UAE
Starlink Now Live in UAE: Residential Plan From Dh300/Month
Starlink went live in the UAE on 3 Sept 2026: Dh300/mo unlimited, up to 400+ Mbps, 30-day trial. Kit Dh1,465. 10-year TDRA licence.
UAE
Standard Chartered launches BTC/ETH spot trading for UAE
3 Sep 2026: Standard Chartered — first G-SIB to launch BTC/USD and ETH/USD spot trading for institutional clients in UAE via DIFC (DFSA).
UAE
Dubai DBLC: 58,337 licences in H1 2026 and Investor Register
Dubai: 58,337 new licences in H1 2026 (+84% vs 2020–2022), corporate bank account in 3 days, Investor Register and AI. What it means for entrepreneurs.
UAE
UAE FTA: 103,680 tax inspections in H1 2026, up 21%
FTA report: 103,680 inspection visits in H1 2026 (+21%), AED 174M in liabilities, 8.45M packs seized. What UAE businesses should do.
UAE
UAE entry visa 2026: ICP adds 6 new nationalities
02 Sep 2026: ICP expands UAE entry visa list — Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, Philippines, Kenya, South Africa. 14/60-day categories, Dh100/Dh250.
UAE
UAE Ramadan 2027: Eid Al Fitr dates and paid holidays
UAE Astronomy Centre: Ramadan 2027 starts 8 Feb, Eid Al Fitr 9–11 March. What HR and business need to plan.
UAE
FAB, Citi complete first MEA tokenised deposit on Swift
2 Sept 2026: FAB and Citi complete a live tokenised-deposit transaction on Swift's ledger. FAB is the first bank in MEA in the 17-bank MVP.
UAE
TAQA delists from ADX on 1 September as L'imad takes 100%
1 Sept 2026: TAQA officially delists from ADX. L'imad takes 100% control. Market cap AED 299 bn — what happens to minority shareholders now.
UAE
Accenture and AWS: six-year Middle East cloud & AI deal
1 Sept 2026: Accenture and AWS sign a six-year Middle East cloud & AI deal. What it means for UAE business — numbers, timelines, impact.
UAE
UK-GCC trade deal in weeks; UK-UAE bilateral next — Sept 2026
1 Sept 2026, Dubai: new UK Trade Minister Anas Sarwar tells The National — UK-GCC deal ready to sign in weeks; UK-UAE bilateral preparatory work starts.
UAE
Dubai villa near Burj Khalifa sells for Dh725M — Aug 2026
Dubai Land Dept, 28 Aug 2026: 379,000 sq ft villa near Burj Khalifa sold for Dh725M — Dh1,914/sq ft. Dh2bn traded on Friday. Key take for investors.
UAE
Dubai air cargo +53% in H1 2026: e-commerce drives growth
Dubai Customs: 18.2m air-cargo transactions (+53%) and 1.3m tonnes in H1 2026. E-commerce duty-free threshold at Dh1,000. What it means for UAE business.
UAE
Alpha Dhabi doubles Mubadala Capital private credit JV to $1bn
Alpha Dhabi doubles its MICAD Credit JV stake with Mubadala Capital to 40% and its commitment to $1bn, and broadens the mandate beyond direct lending.
UAE
Starlink UAE: TDRA grants 10-year satellite broadband licence
TDRA has granted Starlink a 10-year General Space Services Licence in the UAE. Satellite broadband for homes, businesses, government, ships and aircraft.
UAE
UAE petrol prices September 2026: diesel +13%, Super 98 Dh3.80
UAE Fuel Price Committee raises September pump prices: diesel up 13% to Dh4.30, Super 98 to Dh3.80. What it means for UAE businesses and logistics.
UAE
UAE KYC Platform 2026: 30-day cure window, CBUAE penalties
Cabinet Resolutions 55 & 56 of 2026 activate the UAE national KYC platform rules. Violators get up to 30 days to fix — then CBUAE sanctions and 2+ years.
UAE
New CBUAE Law No. 6/2025: compliance deadline 16 September 2026
By 16 September 2026 — around three weeks — UAE banks, insurers, payment firms and enabling tech providers must migrate to the new CBUAE Law No. 6/2025.
UAE
UAE Emirati Women's Day 2026: 25,000 businesswomen, AED 60bn
Ministry of Economy figures ahead of Emirati Women's Day: 25,000+ businesswomen, 50,000+ commercial licences, over AED 60bn in investments, 114,050 SMEs.
UAE
UAE: TDRA grants Starlink a 10-year satellite services licence
UAE regulator TDRA has granted Starlink a 10-year General Satellite Services Licence covering residents, businesses, government, maritime and aviation.
UAE
UAE MoF MD 133/2026: who files the Pillar Two Info Return
UAE MoF Decision 133/2026 pins down which MNE entities must file the Pillar Two Information Return with the FTA — fiscal years from 1 Jan 2025.
UAE
Sharjah: Emirati women invest Dh2.7b in property in 2026
SRERD: Emirati women closed 3,385 property deals in Sharjah worth Dh2.7b in Jan-Aug 2026 — 3,737 investors, up 4.2% year-on-year.
UAE
Dubai-India non-oil trade hits Dh222.5b in 2025, +35% since CEPA
Dubai Chambers: Dubai-India non-oil trade hit Dh222.5b in 2025 — up 136% in a decade and 35% since CEPA. Indian firms in the Chamber reach 85,841.
UAE
Dubai shared housing law No. 4/2026 in force: permits, Dh1M fines
From 26 Aug 2026 Dubai Law No. 4/2026 governs shared housing: permit mandatory, fines up to Dh1M for repeats, one-year grace period until 26 Aug 2027.
UAE
UAE banks ease off-plan mortgages: DIB, ADCB, Emirates NBD
DIB, ADCB and Emirates NBD launch new off-plan mortgages in the UAE: up to 50% LTV, milestone-linked drawdowns, non-residents welcome. Rates from 3.49%.
UAE
Al Maktoum DWC: Dh55B contracts by end-2026, MHI on 50km APM
Dubai Airports to award Dh55B new Al Maktoum (DWC) contracts by end-2026. MHI picked for the 50km APM. Full opening 2032, 260M passengers a year.
UAE
Dubai shared housing Law No. 4/2026 in force: fines to Dh1M
Dubai Law No. 4 of 2026 on shared housing took effect on 26 August: permit required, fines from Dh500 to Dh500,000, doubled to Dh1M for repeats.
UAE
Al Dahra activates $500m 5-year wheat deal with Egypt
Abu Dhabi's Al Dahra on 26 August 2026 activated its 5-year up to $500m wheat supply deal with Egypt's GASC — about $100m per year.
UAE
UAE Pillar Two filing rules: MoF Decision 133 of 2026 for MNCs
UAE Ministry of Finance issues Decision 133 of 2026 — who and how MNCs file the Pillar Two Information Return with the FTA from FY2025.
UAE
Fasset is Dubai's new fintech unicorn: $68M Series C by SBI
Fasset raised $68M Series C led by Japan's SBI and Speedinvest at $1B — Dubai's new 2026 fintech unicorn. What it means for UAE fintech.
UAE
ADIB approves Dh1.75 billion rights issue under Vision 2035
ADIB board approves a Dh1.75B rights issue: 106.4M new shares at Dh16.45 (28.8% discount). What it means for investors and clients.
UAE
Dubai #1 globally for creative-industry FDI four years running
Dubai leads global creative-industry FDI four years in a row: 754 projects, $3.756B capital, 19,304 jobs (2025). What it means for investors.
UAE
AECB adds micro-loans like CashNow to UAE credit reports
From 25 August AECB includes CashNow micro-loans in UAE credit reports. What it means for mortgages, car loans and business finance approval.
UAE
UAE Insurance Assets Hit Dh164.9bn, Profits Jump 54% in 2025
UAE insurance assets reached Dh164.9bn in 2025 (+6.1%), gross premiums up 14.9%, profits jumped 54% to Dh4bn, 17.3M active policies. CBUAE report.
UAE
Dubai to Hand Over 96,585 Homes in 2026 — 83% Already Sold
Dubai delivers 96,585 apartments and villas in 2026 — 82.9% already sold off-plan. Business Bay, Palm Jumeirah, Downtown and Al Wasl lead absorption.
UAE
Dubai widens property access: FTHB, Flexi Rent, Taskeen
FTHB at Dh5bn in sales, Taskeen with no Dh750k floor, Flexi Rent with flexible schedules and Golden Visa from Dh2M — how Dubai widens property access.
UAE
CBD becomes first UAE bank to launch cross-bank payments in app
First UAE bank cleared as CBUAE Third-Party Provider — CBD app now lets customers pay from other banks’ accounts inside one interface.
Dubai
DIEZ H1 2026: 96% occupancy, +13% firms, +24% workforce
DAFZ, DSO, Dubai CommerCity in H1 2026: 96% occupancy, +13% firms, +24% workforce. Dtec sees +95% AI companies. DMO official data.
Dubai
Dubai H1 2026: 104 projects delivered, 25,000 units, AED 111B
Dubai H1 2026 (DLD): 104 real-estate projects delivered (+39% YoY), nearly 25,000 units (+36%), AED 111B ($30B) invested. Sheikh Hamdan cited.
Dubai
Dubai Law 4/2026: shared housing permits and Dh1m fines
Dubai Law 4/2026 regulates shared housing: municipality permits, fines Dh500–500,000 (up to Dh1m on repeat) and eviction of unauthorised units.
TISIA
UAE-Russia TISIA in force: services and investment framework
UAE-Russia Trade in Services and Investment Agreement entered into force on 22 August 2026: fintech, logistics, professional services.
CBUAE
CBUAE FSR 2025: UAE bank assets AED 5.3T, NPL down to 3.3%
CBUAE closes 2025: UAE bank assets AED 5.3T (+17.1%), NPL 3.3%, net profit AED 90.8bn. Progress on Aani, Jaywan and the new Al Tareq Open Finance.
MoHRE
MoHRE lists 6 employer breaches on worker health insurance
MoHRE lists six typical employer breaches of the UAE's mandatory worker health insurance regime. Penalties, permit sanctions and how to comply.
Real estate
Dubai adds 186 new property developers in seven months of 2026
Per DLD, Dubai registered 186 new real-estate development firms in seven months of 2026 — around 25 a month. What it means for investors.
Real estate
Metro Blue, Gold and Etihad Rail: 5-25% premium for Dubai homes
Bayut and JLL: proximity to Metro Blue, Gold and Etihad Rail stations adds 5-25% to Dubai rents and prices in JVC, Meydan, DSO and Dubai South.
VAT
FTA Decision 13: UAE VAT supplier checks mandatory from October
From 1 October 2026 UAE VAT registrants must document supplier and supply checks or input VAT will be denied. Thresholds Dh10k/100k/375k and sanctions.
Nafis
Nafis 2040: salary caps, child & family support from September
ETCC updates Nafis: Dh6K/5K/4K/3K support caps, Dh20K salary ceiling, no cap on children (Dh600 each), new family support. Starts 1 September 2026.
UAE
Abu Dhabi ADREC: 71,000 new homes by 2030, sales Dh70.4bn
ADREC H1 2026 for Abu Dhabi: 71,000 homes by 2030 (21,800 peak in 2028), off-plan 89%, apartment prices in investment zones +21%, sales Dh70.4bn.
UAE
CBUAE: UAE banks defer AED 13.5bn, NPL at record 2.8%
135,031 borrowers received AED 13.5bn in loan deferrals under CBUAE's March 2026 support package. UAE banking NPL ratio hit a record 2.8% in Q2.
UAE
GDRFA Dubai H1 2026: 1M residency permits, 66,000 Golden Visas
GDRFA: Dubai issued 1.05M new residency permits, 66,000 Golden Visas and 5.08M entry permits in H1 2026 — average service turnaround 4 minutes.
UAE
UAE Small Business Relief extended to end of 2029
UAE MoF (Decision 131 of 29 July 2026) extends Small Business Relief under Corporate Tax to 31 December 2029. AED 3M revenue threshold kept.
UAE
TaxStar raises $1.75M seed as UAE e-invoicing mandate nears 2027
TaxStar closes $1.75M seed as a UAE MoF pre-approved ASP. From 1 January 2027 large businesses (AED 50M+ revenue) must issue structured e-invoices.
UAE
Dubai widens property access: Taskeen, FTBP, Flexi Rent
Taskeen minimum removed for sole owners, First-Time Home Buyer hits Dh5bn and 45,000 sign-ups, Flexi Rent brings monthly rent — three tools, one map.
UAE
CBD becomes first UAE bank with Open Finance in mobile app
Commercial Bank of Dubai is the first UAE bank to let customers view balances and send payments from other banks' accounts inside its own mobile app.
UAE
Dubai Chambers and India's Nasscom sign agentic AI MOU
Dubai Chambers signed an MOU with Nasscom: 3,500+ Indian tech firms across a $315B industry — supporting Dubai entry and agentic AI adoption in UAE business.
UAE
Dubai drops AED 750k floor for 2-year Taskeen investor visa
Dubai Land Department scrapped the AED 750k floor for the 2-year Taskeen (sole owner). First-Time Buyer: ~45,000 registrations, 3,200+ homes, AED 5B+.
UAE
L'IMAD bids AED 6.25/share for 100% of AD Ports (23% premium)
L'IMAD Holding via ADQ (already 75.42%) launched a voluntary AED 6.25/share tender for AD Ports — 23% premium to close; 100% valuation ~AED 31.8B.
UAE
DIFC tops 10,000 active companies for the first time in H1 2026
DIFC crosses 10,000 active companies for the first time — 10,018 at end-H1 2026 (+30% YoY), AI/FinTech +39%, family offices +36%, foundations +67%.
UAE
Dubai hotels H2 2026: Cavendish Maxwell sees 60–66% occupancy
Cavendish Maxwell: H1 hotel occupancy 56.4% at Dh701 ADR; H2 forecast 60–66% at Dh600–675 as flights return.
UAE
UAE to widen Jaywan card acceptance at hotels and attractions
UAE Tourism Council widens Jaywan card acceptance at hotels and attractions as part of the Dh450bn 2031 tourism target. What businesses should do.
UAE
Nakheel hands over 892 homes at redeveloped Jebel Ali Village
Nakheel begins handover of 892 homes at redeveloped Jebel Ali Village near Ibn Battuta Mall. What's built, who it's for, how it fits 2026 supply.
UAE
Dubai's DIEZ free zones hit 96% occupancy in H1 2026
DIEZ's Dubai free zones — DAFZ, Silicon Oasis, CommerCity — posted 96% occupancy and +13% companies in H1 2026. What that means for your business.
UAE
Space42 wins ADX approval to buy back up to 2.5% of shares
ADX cleared Space42 to buy back up to 2.5% of its shares from cash on the open market. What a buyback means for investors and where disclosures live.
UAE
Emirates NBD launches UAE's first Transition Finance Framework
Emirates NBD on 17 Aug 2026 unveiled its Transition Finance Framework — the UAE's first dedicated framework for decarbonising hard-to-abate sectors.
UAE
CBUAE: UAE bank assets hit Dh5.3 trillion in 2025 (+17.1%)
CBUAE 2025 Financial Stability Report: UAE bank assets +17.1% to Dh5.3tn, profits +11.7% to Dh90.8bn, NPL 3.3%, Capital Adequacy Ratio 17%.
UAE
Dubai FAA Nazaha: workplace protection for whistleblowers
Dubai FAA confirms: an employee reporting a financial or administrative violation via the Nazaha platform is entitled to workplace protection.
UAE
FTA: SBR still requires a simplified return by 30 September 2026
FTA reminds: SBR does not waive filing. A simplified CT return for FY 2025 is due by 30 September 2026, and the relief must be elected in the return.
UAE
Dubai Rent Now, Pay Later: 12 zero-interest months in Sept 2026
DLD launches Rent Now, Pay Later in September 2026: a bank pays the landlord the full annual rent, tenants repay 12 equal zero-interest instalments.
UAE
Abu Dhabi covers UAE entry visa for Indian tourists: 20,000 pilot
From 1 Aug to 31 Oct 2026 DCT Abu Dhabi pays the UAE entry visa for Indian tourists booking 3+ hotel nights. Pilot capped at 20,000 visas.
MGX
UAE MGX invests in Databricks $5B strategic round at $190B
Databricks raised $5B at a $190B valuation. Abu Dhabi's sovereign AI investor MGX is among the top backers. What this means for UAE's tech ecosystem.
UAE
UAE music licensing fees start 1 Dec 2026: who pays what
From 1 December 2026 UAE businesses playing music publicly need an annual licence. Fees AED 1,500–50,000. Who pays and who is exempt.
UAE
AD Ports Q2 2026: record profit AED 836m (+88% YoY)
AD Ports Group posted record Q2 2026: net profit AED 836m (+88% YoY), revenue AED 7.08bn (+47%), EBITDA AED 1.74bn — diversified corridors deliver.
UAE
Coinbase opens ADGM tokenisation hub with Apple CB Certificates
Coinbase received an FSRA permission in ADGM on 11 August 2026 and opened its tokenisation hub; first product: Apple CB Certificates.
UAE
ADX opens live market data to ChatGPT and Claude via MCP
On 13 Aug 2026 ADX launched an MCP server: retail and brokers can plug ChatGPT and Claude into live ADX data. Free tier + up to AED 49.99/mo.
UAE
DP World H1 2026: revenue +13.1% to $12.7bn, capex $3bn
DP World H1 2026: revenue $12.7bn (+13.1%), adj. EBITDA $2.86bn, $3bn 2026 capex plan — $1.5bn already deployed by mid-year.
UAE
DEWA H1 2026: record Dh3.33bn profit, Dh14.86bn revenue
DEWA H1 2026: record net profit Dh3.33bn (+15.02%), record revenue Dh14.86bn. Interim dividend of Dh3.1bn scheduled for late October.
UAE
Jaywan × UnionPay MoU: UAE Cards Now Accepted in 183 Countries
Al Etihad Payments and UnionPay signed a Shanghai MoU: Jaywan cards will work at 100M+ POS terminals and 1.8M ATMs across 183 countries. China first.
UAE
FTA 2025: UAE collects AED 46bn VAT & excise, audits +46%
FTA 2025 annual report: VAT & excise revenue up 15% to AED 46bn, 245K corporate tax registrations, audits surged 46% amid enforcement push.
UAE
Moody's: UAE Has Strong Buffers Against Negative MENA Outlook
Rating agency reaffirms UAE at Aa2 stable — the Gulf's most resilient economy: Abu Dhabi assets ~300% of GDP and pipeline routes bypass Hormuz.
UAE
Coinbase wins Abu Dhabi FSRA licence for tokenised stocks
11 Aug 2026: ADGM FSRA licence lets Coinbase issue tokenised stocks — backed 1:1 by shares, with dividends and voting rights preserved for holders.
UAE
UAE FTA: 8.45m Excise Items Seized in H1 2026, Dh174m Levied
H1 2026 FTA drive: 8.45m excise items seized, Dh174m in tax dues and fines, 103,680 inspections (+21% YoY), 3,343 VAT non-registration notices.
UAE
FTA Directive No. 2 of 2026: VAT After Tax Group Exit
From 1 August 2026: a former VAT Tax Group member that stays VAT-registered reports adjustments in its own return, not the group’s. What changes.
UAE
UAE FTA Directive No. 3: How to Convert Crypto to AED for VAT
The UAE FTA now requires businesses to convert digital currency to AED via 3 of 5 approved exchanges, priced at each transaction’s date and time.
UAE
Emirates NBD teams up with DFDF to accelerate UAE fintech, AI
Dubai's biggest bank teams up with the AED 1bn DFDF fund of funds for pilots in AI banking, embedded finance, SME and WealthTech. What changes.
UAE
UAE Cyber Security Council thwarts attacks on 3 vital sectors
UAE contained coordinated cyber attacks on aviation, energy and education before systems were breached. What UAE firms should do now.
UAE
Dubai AI to issue villa building permits in minutes, not days
Dubai Municipality's AI will vet villa drawings against the Dubai Building Code and issue permits in minutes. 26 weeks, three phases, Build in Dubai.
UAE
ADNOC Gas Q2 2026: $665m profit, 2030 EBITDA target raised
ADNOC Gas beats guidance: $665m Q2 2026 profit, $940m dividend in September, 2030 EBITDA growth target raised from 40% to 60%.
UAE
Adnoc Distribution: record $545m H1 profit and $1bn Shell SA deal
Adnoc Distribution posts record $545m H1 2026 net profit (+58.5%); Q2 almost doubles to $358m. Buys 100% of Shell Downstream SA for ~$1bn.
UAE
Digital Dubai Launches Economic Survey 2026: GDP Hits $265bn
DDSE invites 16,000+ Dubai companies, incl. free zones, to Economic Survey 2026 by 31 Dec. Emirate’s GDP has already reached AED 972bn.
UAE
ADGM amends commercial law: nominees, trust UBO, cash caps
ADGM RA: nominee status now on the public register, trust UBO powers, cash caps for lawyers, auditors and real-estate agents. What changed on 9 July 2026.
UAE
Emaar Q2 2026: net profit AED 3.67bn, up 9% year-on-year
Emaar Q2 2026: net profit AED 3.67bn ($999m), +9% YoY. H1 property sales AED 26.6bn, backlog AED 164.9bn. What it tells us about Dubai real estate.
UAE
Dubai Founders HQ and Mastercard launch Founder Finance for SMEs
Dubai Founders HQ, Mastercard and Pemo unveil a corporate cards and spend-automation pack for UAE startups — over AED 10,000 value in year one.
UAE
TAQA delists from ADX: ADPower squeeze-out on 13 August
ADPower completes buyout of the remaining 1.88% of TAQA at AED 2.70 per share on 13 August. Full ADX delisting, minority payout on 18 August.
UAE
UAE FTA Decision 12/2026: Top-up Tax registration deadlines
UAE FTA sets Top-up Tax registration deadlines: MNE Groups whose FY ended before 30 Apr 2026 must register by 30 Nov 2026. Based on Cabinet 142/2024.
Etihad Rail
Etihad Rail: Al Yalayis, Al Dhaid open on 30 September 2026
Etihad Rail opens Dubai Al Yalayis and Sharjah's Al Dhaid on 30 Sept 2026 — phase two of the UAE's 900 km passenger rail network.
Dubai
Dubai Law 4/2026 takes effect Aug 26: shared housing under DLD
From 26 August Dubai Law 4/2026 puts shared housing under permits with fines up to AED 1m. DLD launches a dedicated rental index and operator register.
UAE
UAE: Friday 28 August paid public holiday for Mawlid Al Nabawi
UAE Media Office declares Friday 28 August 2026 a paid public holiday for public and private sectors. Sat–Sun staff get a three-day weekend.
UAE
UAE GDP grew 3% in Q1 2026; non-oil sector expanded 4.8%
UAE real GDP reached AED 485 billion ($132 billion) in Q1 2026. The non-oil sector expanded 4.8% year-on-year and now delivers 79.4% of the economy.
UAE
UAE MoF Extends Small Business Relief for Corporate Tax to 2029
UAE MoF Ministerial Decision 131 extends Small Business Relief on corporate tax until 31 December 2029. AED 3M revenue cap unchanged — impact for SMEs.
UAE
Nafis: Employers to Fully Fund Emirati Pensions from September
From September 2026, UAE private employers must fully fund the employer share of pension contributions for Emirati staff. HR and payroll impact.
UAE
Edenred UAE gets CBUAE in-principle approval for SVF
CBUAE grants Edenred UAE in-principle SVF licence approval — the payroll operator serves 2.5M employees and 20,000+ businesses. What HR needs to know.
UAE
UAE MoF sets Dh1/mL minimum excise on e-cig liquids
UAE Ministry of Finance sets Dh1/mL minimum excise on e-cig liquids from 1 September 2026 — what vape importers, distributors and retail must reset.
Ras Al Khaimah
RAK attracts Dh771.5M and 967 new businesses in H1 2026
RAK Chamber H1 2026: Dh771.5M new investment, 967 new businesses, 1,399 investors from 68 countries, 2,449 expected jobs.
Crypto.com Pay
Dubai Duty Free is first ME airport retailer with Crypto.com Pay
DDF is first airport retailer in ME to accept Crypto.com Pay: QR at DXB, DWC, online for eligible UAE residents. Crypto.com — first VASP with CBUAE SVF.
VAT
FTA expands tourist VAT refunds: 19,340 stores and Noon added
UAE FTA integrates Noon into the digital tourist VAT refund system — a world first for e-commerce. Network reaches 19,340 stores and 100 kiosks.
Mastercard
Mastercard × AFS Launch AFS Pro: Unified B2B Payments in UAE
Mastercard and AFS launched AFS Pro in the UAE: corporate cards, SoftPOS on smartphones and Pay-by-Link, all in one B2B platform. What businesses get.
UAE PMI
UAE PMI July 2026: 52.7 — 4-Month High, Hiring Bounces Back
S&P Global UAE PMI climbed to 52.7 in July — a 4-month high. Non-oil sector employment returned to growth after June contraction.
Dubai Founders HQ
Dubai FoundersHQ + Mastercard: Founder Finance for UAE SMEs
Dubai Founders HQ, Mastercard and Pemo launch Founder Finance: AED 10,000+ first-year value, up to 2% cashback on FX and ads — how it works.
UAE MoF
UAE MoF adds Aani and Jaywan for federal fee payments
UAE Ministry of Finance becomes the first federal entity to collect service fees and fines via Aani and Jaywan — under Cabinet Resolution 176M/4M/2026.
Fintech
KamelPay wins CBUAE SVF and RPS licences for payroll
On 31 July 2026 KamelPay won CBUAE SVF and RPS licences for payroll wallets and retail payments serving 400,000+ UAE workers.
UAE
UAE Widens National Economic Register to 33 Licensing Bodies
UAE Ministry of Economy and Tourism widens NER 'Growth' to 33 licensing authorities and free zones — one search point for 4,000+ business activities.
Economy
UAE Economy Hits Dh485bn in Q1 2026, Non-Oil at 79.4%
UAE real GDP rose 3% to Dh485bn in Q1 2026, with non-oil sectors up 4.8% and finance leading at +17.3%. Here's what it means for business.
Finance
UAE Federal Fees Now Payable via Aani and Jaywan
The UAE Ministry of Finance now accepts government fees and fines via Aani and Jaywan — the first federal body to do so. What it means for business.
Tax
UAE Corporate Tax: File Your Return by 30 September 2026
UAE companies with a financial year ending 31 December 2025 must file their corporate tax return by 30 September 2026. Rates, relief and penalties.
Real Estate
Dubai Real Estate H1 2026: 86,000 Sales Deals
Dubai real estate H1 2026: around 86,000 sales transactions, roughly AED 421 billion across all deal types, and a strong luxury segment.
Tourism
Ras Al Khaimah: Record 670,000 Visitors in H1 2026
Ras Al Khaimah welcomed a record 670,000 visitors in H1 2026, with domestic trips up 47%. Its 2030 target is 3.5 million visitors a year.
Economy
DIFC H1 2026: 10,018 Companies and 30% Growth
DIFC reported H1 2026 results: 10,018 active companies, 2,318 new arrivals, 30% organic annual growth and 1,134 regulated financial firms.
Regulation
UAE Merger Control: MoET Pre-Closing Filings from 30 July 2026
Cabinet Decision No.59/2026 activates mandatory pre-closing merger notification to MoET on 30 July. Thresholds: AED 300M turnover or 40% share.
Finance
ECB Adds Tabby and Tamara BNPL to UAE Credit Reports
From July 2026, Tabby and Tamara BNPL data flows into your official UAE credit report — including historical transactions.
British Expats
Why UK Expats Return to UAE: 10,334 British Firms Stay
38% of UK residents left UAE during regional turbulence, but 72% returned within 60 days — while 10,334 British firms now operate in Dubai.
ADGM
FSRA ADGM Annual Report 2025: FSPs Up 22%
FSRA ADGM released its 2025 Annual Report on 13 July 2026: 95 Financial Services Permissions (+22%), 120 IPAs (+32%), 5 new MoUs signed.
ADGM
ADGM tightens commercial framework: July 2026 reforms
ADGM RA rolled out two July 2026 reforms: nominee disclosure and BO changes on 9 July, unified sales-and-promotion permits on 23 July.
ADGM
ADGM Recognises Tether Gold (XAU₮) as Accepted Spot Commodity
FSRA recognised Tether Gold (XAU₮) as an Accepted Spot Commodity on 23 July 2026 — ADGM-licensed firms can now work with gold-backed tokens.
Real Estate
Dubai Cuts Tokenised Real Estate Minimum to Dh1,000
PRYPCO MINT, the sole VARA-licensed platform, drops the minimum tokenised property ticket from Dh2,000 to Dh1,000 — about $272.
Trade
UAE-EU CEPA: 7th round ends with UAE setting the pace
Al Zeyoudi says EU 'non-trade matters' slow the deal. Meanwhile the UAE's CEPA portfolio hits 37 signed, 18 in force.
DIFC
Blackstone Plans DIFC Dubai Office in 2026 Return — Reuters
Blackstone plans a DIFC office in its first Dubai return since 2019, Reuters reports — while keeping Abu Dhabi in a dual-hub Gulf setup.
Property
Dubai lowers tokenised property minimum to AED 1,000
Dubai's VARA-licensed PRYPCO MINT platform cuts tokenised property minimum from AED 2,000 to AED 1,000. Practical read for expat investors.
UAE real estate
Off-Plan Mortgages in the UAE: What 75% LTV Changes
UAE banks are lending against off-plan projects at up to 75% LTV. What it costs, how it works, and who benefits — expats and investors.
Banking
ADIB Becomes World's First Bank to Deploy Visa VTIP
Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank is the first globally to run Visa's Threat Intelligence Platform, catching cyber incidents before they turn into payment fraud.
Economy
UAE and Canada Conclude 38th CEPA: First G7 Trade Partner
UAE and Canada wrapped CEPA talks in 47 days on 24 July 2026 — Ottawa becomes the first G7 economy in Abu Dhabi's 38-deal trade programme.
Finance
Mubadala tokenises private markets fund via Kaio, Coinbase
On 23 July 2026 Mubadala Capital first tokenised a private fund via Kaio on Base, Solana and Sui - Coinbase added the token to its corporate treasury.
Banking
Emirates NBD H1 2026: Record Profit and RBL Bank India Deal
Dubai's largest bank posts record AED 16.2bn H1 profit and completes a $2.75bn RBL India deal. What it means for UAE business.
Regulation
UAE Competition Law: New Executive Regulations Start 30 July 2026
Cabinet Decision 59/2026 activates mandatory merger control in the UAE: AED 300M turnover or 40% market share thresholds. What to do before 30 July.
Real Estate
Abu Dhabi Property Prices H1 2026: Knight Frank Signals +21%
Abu Dhabi cleared AED 117B in H1 2026 property deals. Knight Frank data pinpoint Al Saadiyat and Al Jubail as the hottest postcodes.
Finance
Jaywan and Mastercard Launch World's First Co-Badged Credit Card
Al Etihad Payments and Mastercard unveil the first Jaywan co-badged credit card, new switching infrastructure and a UAE operations hub.
DP World
DP World Signs 50-Year Deal for Fujairah Ports Outside Hormuz
DP World and Fujairah Ports Authority signed a 50-year concession on 22 July 2026 to build Al Rughailat and Dibba — deep-water ports outside Hormuz.
Marsa Al Saadiyat
Marsa Al Saadiyat: Aldar’s AED 100bn Abu Dhabi district
22 July 2026: Abu Dhabi launched Marsa Al Saadiyat — AED 100bn Aldar waterfront. What it means for foreign buyers and Golden Visa applicants.
Jaywan
Jaywan: UAE launches its first national card scheme
The UAE’s first national card scheme launched on 20 July 2026. FAB rolled out a Jaywan debit card, CBD a prepaid card, and Network International switched on online acceptance across thousands of merchants — with no extra fee.
Taxes
NRI ITR Filing in UAE 2026: 31 July Deadline & Forms Guide
Nine days to file. Who is on ITR-2, where the 182 vs 120-day rule bites, what the Section 234F fine looks like and how to unlock DTAA rates via UAE TRC and Form 10F.
Regulations
UAE Federal Authority for AI and Data: Business Guide
One regulator instead of three, and the first authority with a full enforcement mandate over PDPL for the private sector. What UAE companies should do before the final schedule of fines lands.
Tax
FTA refunds AED 353.5m in VAT to UAE nationals building homes
The FTA refunded AED 353.5m to around 4,000 UAE nationals building new private homes in H1 2026, a 24.1% year-on-year rise as the scheme's scope widens.
Investment
MGX–BlackRock Close Aligned Data Centres, Add $5bn Investment
The MGX–BlackRock consortium closed its US$40bn purchase of Aligned Data Centres on Tuesday and pledged another US$5bn to expand it. The deal hands Abu Dhabi a direct stake in one of the largest AI-ready operators in the Americas.
Business
UAE Emiratisation 2026: 190,000+ Emiratis in the private sector, 95% of firms hit quotas
Over 190,000 Emiratis are now employed across the UAE private sector — MoHRE released the H1 2026 figure on 20 July 2026. Roughly 32,000 companies now employ at least one Emirati national, and 95% of firms subject to Emiratisation quotas met their H1 targets. For mainland businesses the message is direct: quotas are landing, enforcement is live, and the H2 2026 target is already ticking.
Economy
UAE to sign 5–7 more CEPAs by end of 2026
The UAE expects to sign five to seven more CEPAs before year-end. Canada leads the pipeline; Africa, Peru and Bangladesh follow. H1 2026 non-oil trade reached Dh1.937 trillion (+13.1% YoY), with Dh304.3 billion already flowing through existing CEPA partners.
Banking
Mashreq launches NEO On Arrival — digital UAE account for visitors in minutes
Mashreq announced NEO On Arrival — a fully digital UAE bank account for international visitors, activated within minutes of arrival via passport-based eKYC and Emirates Facial Recognition. Built with CBUAE, ICP and EFR. Here's how it works, who's behind it, and what it means for business travellers, expats and UAE merchants.
AI
e& UAE and Core42 launch Sovereign AI Compute
e& UAE and Core42 (a G42 company) have launched Sovereign AI Compute, positioned by both partners as the UAE's first sovereign GPU platform for enterprise AI. Data stays inside the country, egress is free of charge, and there is no upfront capex — with a companion GPU Connect bundle packaging GPU access with premium connectivity.
Fintech
Triple-A Secures Dubai VARA IPA for Broker-Dealer Services
On 16 July 2026, Singapore's Triple-A received an In-Principle Approval from Dubai's VARA for Broker-Dealer virtual assets services. Around 50 firms hold full VASP licences globally. What the IPA delivers, how the IPA-to-licence path works, and what it means for UAE businesses.
Regulations
UAE Competition Law: Cabinet Decision 59/2026 in Force 30 July
On 30 July 2026, Cabinet Decision No. 59 of 2026 activates the executive regulations of the UAE Competition Law: mandatory suspensory merger control, a qualitative dominance test, fixed 10+90+45-day timelines and real post-closing enforcement. An 8-point readiness checklist for UAE companies with live M&A activity.
Fintech
UAE Jaywan National Payment Card Goes Live: What Changes Now
On 20 July 2026 CBUAE and Al Etihad Payments moved Jaywan from pilot to operational. Two new issuers, thousands of merchants, wallets rolling out — what it means for UAE business.
Taxes
UAE e-invoicing: ASP deadline extended to 30 October 2026, penalty AED 5,000/month
UAE launched its e-invoicing pilot on 1 July 2026 and extended the ASP-appointment deadline for large businesses to 30 October 2026. Penalty for missing it: AED 5,000 per month, no grace period.
Regulation
UAE Approves Spectrum Rules for Air Taxis and Drones
The UAE telecoms regulator TDRA has approved updated spectrum rules for Advanced Air Mobility, covering air taxis, delivery drones, vertiports and unmanned traffic management. The change removes a key regulatory uncertainty for operators and investors eyeing the UAE — though commercial services still need clearance from the civil aviation authority and the emirate of operation.
Investments
UAE Retail T-Sukuk: 4.30% p.a. from AED 1,000 for Expats
The UAE's first Sovereign Retail T-Sukuk pays 4.30% per annum in semi-annual coupons, opens the sovereign fixed-income market to individuals from AED 1,000, and is now traded on Nasdaq Dubai. For expats in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the debut sets a new benchmark for parking AED liquidity beyond term deposits.
Customs
Dubai Customs Unlocks AED 79M for 428 Firms in Q2 2026
AED 79M in liquidity for 428 firms and AED 33.9B in Green Corridor trade. Notices 14 and 15 stay open until year-end — file before the deadlines shut.
Real Estate
Sharjah Real Estate H1 2026 Hits AED 29.5B Record
Sharjah closed H1 2026 with AED 29.5B in real estate deals, up 9.3% YoY, as 59,460 transactions from 121 nationalities widened the buyer pool.
Economy
UAE Non-Oil Trade Hits Record AED 1.94tn in H1 2026
UAE non-oil foreign trade hit AED 1.937 trillion in H1 2026, up 13.1% YoY, with exports at a record AED 452.8bn. What Sheikh Mohammed’s announcement means for UAE-based businesses and CEPA exporters.
M&A
e& closes Vodafone exit: Dh4.8bn and 30 July dividend
e& closed its 16.21% Vodafone sale for $5.95bn. Net cash return: Dh4.8bn. A Dh400m Vodafone final dividend hits the treasury on 30 July 2026.
Fintech
UP by CBD: Mobile Bank for UAE SME Digital Accounts
CBD's new mobile bank plugs directly into the Dubai Unified Licence, shortening SME onboarding from weeks to days — and pairing the account with DET's Founders HQ and SME in a Box programmes.
Real Estate
Abu Dhabi Real Estate Hits AED 117bn in H1 2026, FDI +309%
Abu Dhabi's property market booked AED 117bn in H1 2026 as FDI surged 309% and 116 nationalities transacted — ADREC's strongest half on record.
Real Estate
Modon Sells Out Bashayer's Final Phase on Hudayriyat in 24h
Modon has sold out the final phase of Bashayer on Hudayriyat Island in 24 hours — 300 residences, AED 1.25 billion, 71% new buyers. The developer's third back-to-back Hudayriyat sell-out in eight months.
DIFC
DIFC opens AI-focused data protection consultation
DIFC Authority opened a 30-day consultation on amended Data Protection Regulations targeting AI systems, certification bodies and the Autonomous Systems Officer role. Comments close 18 July 2026.
Visas
UAE Visit Visa for Relatives and Friends: 2026 GDRFA Rules
GDRFA Dubai's 2026 visit visa framework at a glance: sponsor salary thresholds, fees, deposits, and the 120-day annual stay cap explained.
Banks
New UAE Central Bank Law: Compliance Deadline 16 Sep 2026
Since 16 September 2025 the UAE financial sector operates under a rewritten rulebook. The one-year transition window closes on 16 September 2026 — with a wider perimeter and sharper penalties.
Fintech
Sav Signs Exclusive 5-Year Visa Card Deal Across UAE & KSA
Sav names Visa its exclusive card network in the UAE and Saudi Arabia in a five-year multi-million dollar deal — what it means for the region's fintech landscape.
Free Zones
Salik–DIEZ MoU Brings Smart Parking to Dubai Free Zones
Salik e-wallet and DIEZ join forces on smart parking across 21,000 spaces in three Dubai free zones.
Banking
UP by CBD: SME mobile bank ties to Dubai Unified Licence
CBD launched UP by CBD — a mobile-only SME bank with direct Dubai Unified Licence integration and an instant business credit card.
M&A
Uber acquires Delivery Hero, talabat's UAE parent
Uber Technologies has announced a EUR 41.50-per-share voluntary takeover offer for Berlin-based Delivery Hero SE, valuing the group at about USD 14.8 billion and keeping UAE market leader talabat inside Uber's global platform.
Taxes
UAE FTA Waives AED 10,000 Corporate Tax Penalty — File by 31 July 2026
The FTA is writing off the AED 10,000 late-registration penalty for Corporate Tax — but only if the first return lands in EmaraTax within seven months of the Tax Period end. For most UAE businesses, that means 31 July 2026.
Fintech
MESA Launches at DIFC as Middle East's First Stablecoin Industry Body
MESA, the region's first industry association focused solely on stablecoins, was incorporated at DIFC on 15 July 2026. Chaired by Dr. Bhaskar Dasgupta, it will work on policy, education and standards as UAE regulators tighten oversight and issuers scale up under the new CBUAE regime.
DIB
DIB H1 2026: Dh12.4bn Revenue (+10% YoY), Dh4.8bn Operating Profit
Dubai Islamic Bank reported H1 2026 gross revenue of Dh12.4bn (+10% YoY), operating profit Dh4.8bn (+6%), net profit stable at Dh3.7bn. NPF ratio dropped to 2.4%, CET1 stands at 13%, LCR at 140%.
Fintech
Revolut Wins VARA In-Principle Approval for Dubai Crypto
AGBI reports Revolut has picked up an in-principle approval from Dubai's VARA for a Virtual Asset Service Provider licence. The full licence — and a UAE-facing crypto trading platform — could land before the end of August 2026, with the caveat the process may take longer.
ECB
ECB adds GPSSA pensions and Nafis income to UAE credit report — what it means for banks
From 14 July 2026, GPSSA pension payments and Nafis financial support appear inside the UAE Individual Credit Report — giving banks a source-verified view of income that no longer depends on customer paperwork.
US-UAE
UAE Enters US Country Group A:5 — License-Free AI Chips
BIS reclassifies the UAE to Country Group A:5 — approved end-users can now import advanced AI chips and servers without individual US export licenses.
News
UAE Mid-Market HR Compliance 2026: WPS, Gratuity, Emiratisation
UAE Mid-Market HR Compliance 2026: WPS, Gratuity, Emiratisation The 2026 regulatory calendar in the UAE puts three specific tasks on the desk of every mid-market employer: a tightened Wage Protection System, a strict reading of end-of-service gratuity, and Emiratisation milestones tied to the Nafis programme. Companies that treat these as a routine HR-functi
Emirates NBD
Emirates NBD and Partior Go Live: First Real-Time Blockchain USD Payment to J.P. Morgan
On 14 July 2026, Emirates NBD executed the region's first real-time, blockchain-based cross-border USD payment on the Partior network, with J.P. Morgan acting as both settlement and beneficiary bank. The launch takes a partnership announced in October 2024 into live production, giving corporate and institutional clients in the UAE a minutes-fast USD corridor to J.P. Morgan accounts. It also signals what regional treasurers can expect as more currencies and banks join Partior's rails.
DMCC
Dubai Sets $41.7 Billion Diamond Trade Record in 2025
Dubai’s diamond trade reached USD 41.7 billion in 2025 and moved 359.5 million carats, DMCC announced on 13 July 2026. It is the first time the emirate has posted records on both value and volume in the same year, based on Dubai Customs data — with the previous value peak of USD 40.9 billion, set in 2011, standing untouched for 14 years.
ADGM
ADGM FSRA 2025 Annual Report: 94 Permissions (+22%), 120 IPAs (+32%), 5 New MoUs
FSRA, the ADGM regulator, closed 2025 with 94 Financial Services Permissions (+22%), 120 In-Principle Approvals (+32%) and five new international MoUs — a signal that Abu Dhabi's financial ecosystem is scaling while supervision deepens.
Regulation
DIFC Courts H1 2026: record AED 10bn claims, opt-in trend
DIFC Courts closed H1 2026 with 810 cases and AED 10.02 billion in claims — and 42% of first-instance filings arrived by voluntary opt-in. Dubai's common-law forum is being chosen, not assigned.
Business
Abu Dhabi Licences Jump 21% in Q1 2026, Freelance +261%
Abu Dhabi's registration authority (ADRA) has posted Q1 2026 figures: new economic licences up 21%, freelance permits up 261%, and professional licences up 193% year on year. Al Ain and Al Dhafra are outpacing the capital in growth rate. Here's the practical breakdown for expat entrepreneurs, freelancers and SMB owners weighing an Abu Dhabi setup over Dubai.
Business
Deutsche Bank & Dubai DET launch family-office gateway
Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism and Deutsche Bank have signed a partnership. The bank identifies UHNW clients, family offices, corporates and industrial groups considering international relocation; DET meets them in Dubai with end-to-end facilitation, up to residency pathways under the applicable investor category. A working breakdown of what was signed and how to access it.
Energy
BYD to supply 11.275 GWh batteries for Masdar RTC in Abu Dhabi
BYD Energy Storage has signed its largest single order to date: 11.275 GWh of batteries for the Masdar and EWEC Round-the-Clock project in Abu Dhabi. The station will pair with 5.2 GW of solar PV to deliver 1 GW of clean baseload, around the clock. Commissioning is targeted for 2027.
Taxes
UAE FTA opens Pillar Two DMTT registration on EmaraTax
The UAE Federal Tax Authority has opened Pillar Two Top-up Tax registration on EmaraTax. In-scope MNE groups can register now — with the first DMTT return due by 30 June 2027.
Transport
Dubai Taxi Company Closes $395m Acquisition of National Taxi
Dubai Taxi Company has closed the largest UAE mobility M&A of 2026, buying National Taxi for AED 1.45 billion in cash. The combined group now runs more than 9,500 taxis across Dubai and Abu Dhabi, with roughly 78 million trips a year. For a market long dominated by fragmented operators, the deal signals a shift toward scale, digital dispatch and multi-emirate consolidation.
UAE
UAE Cabinet Decision 59 of 2026: New Merger Control Rules
Cabinet Decision No. 59 of 2026 activates the executive regulations for Federal Decree-Law 36 of 2023 on 30 July 2026. Deals above AED 300 million UAE turnover or 40% market share must be notified to the Ministry of Economy & Tourism and cannot close before clearance. Below is what dealmakers need to do in the next 18 days.
UAE
DAE, Neuberger Berman Launch $6B Mustang Aerospace JV
On 6 July 2026 Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) and Neuberger Berman launched Mustang Aerospace, a Dubai-headquartered joint venture targeting up to $6 billion in commercial aircraft assets. A syndicate of six global banks — Goldman Sachs, Mizuho, BNP Paribas, MUFG, Société Générale and Truist — has signed the warehouse line funding the platform’s opening trades.
UAE
UAE FDI 2025: Record $48.3bn, NIF anchors 2031 push
On 8–10 July 2026 UAE Minister of Investment Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi reported record inbound FDI of $48.3bn for 2025, +6% YoY (WAM/AGBI). The $10bn National Investment Fund, approved by the Cabinet on 19.11.2025, is now the operational anchor of the National Investment Strategy 2031.
Corporate Tax
UAE Corporate Tax: FTA Clarifies Free Zones & Family Offices
The UAE Federal Tax Authority consolidated dozens of Private Clarifications into one summary on 09 July 2026. Free Zones, family foundations, REITs, shipping, IP and HQ services — no new law, but a practical map of how the FTA reads the rules. An ordinary LLC cannot qualify as a Family Foundation; QFZP substance and TP adjustments get sharper definitions.
UAE
UAE Enters US Export Tier A:5, Unlocking AI Chip Access
The US Bureau of Industry and Security has moved the UAE into Country Group A:5 under the Export Administration Regulations, making it the first Arab nation in the top-trust tier. The change activates License Exception STA and clears a licence-free path for Nvidia and AMD AI accelerators, commercial satellites, and dual-use kit for oil and gas, desalination and civil nuclear. Data centres, free zones and the UAE’s professional-services stack are the first-order beneficiaries.
UAE
UAE Extends Phase 1 E-Invoicing ASP Deadline to 30 October 2026
The UAE Ministry of Finance has pushed Phase 1 ASP appointment from 31 July to 30 October 2026 by Ministerial Decision No. 66. The mandatory go-live on 1 January 2027 is unchanged. Here is what AED 50M+ businesses should do with the extra three months — and how the DCTCE / Peppol PINT AE model actually works in practice.
UAE
e& exits Vodafone in $5.95bn Vega sale — UAE's biggest 2026 deal
UAE's e& has sold its full 16.21% Vodafone stake to French billionaire Xavier Niel's Vega for $5.95bn (Dh21.8bn) — the largest UAE corporate deal of 2026. e& shares on ADX rose 3.7%, Vodafone on LSE about 10%. Here are the numbers, the strategic rationale and what it means for UAE business and ADX investors.
Fintech
Taptap Send secures 3 CBUAE licenses to launch local UAE payments
CBUAE issued Taptap Send three separate authorisations (SVF, Retail Payment Cat II, Exchange Cat IV). The company can now move beyond remittances into onshore UAE: dirham local payments, digital wallets and payment cards for diaspora communities. Announced 8 July 2026.
Investments
Arada Capital wins ADGM FSRA approval, targets $5bn AUM fund
Arada Capital has received In-Principle Approval from ADGM FSRA to launch its fund platform in Abu Dhabi, targeting $5 billion in AUM over four years — starting with GCC real estate for institutional and qualified investors.
Tax
FTA: AED 10,000 late corporate-tax registration penalty waived if you file within 7 months
The FTA waives the AED 10,000 late corporate-tax registration penalty if the first return is filed within 7 months of the end of the first tax period. For a period ending 31 Dec 2025, the deadline is 31 July 2026.
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