Industry Updates across the GCC

Attested documents are required for most processes in the UAE, for companies and for individuals therefore it is essential to obtain official recognition of these documents for use within the UAE. Attested documents for the likes of UAE company set up applications, Foreign Branch registration, work permits, residence visas, school admissions etc are mandatory. The process can differ dependent on the type of document or the original issuing country of these documents. Read more

Oman is currently experiencing economic growth and is encouraging foreign businesses to invest in the country. In addition to already strong and well-developed industries like oil and tourism, the country is working to develop other industries, including mining, construction, infrastructure, import and export trade and agriculture. As technology has become a quintessential part of the modern life, major blue-chip companies as well as knowledge and technology-driven SMEs and start-ups have been enjoying the benefits offered to the companies in the IT sector. Read more

There is less than a year to go until the anticipated EXPO 2020 opens its doors to the public and enthusiasm is certainly in the air! EXPO 2020 is expected to attract up to 30 million visitors over the six-month span, most of which will be international visitors. Read more

Virtual Licences have recently been announced in the UAE. These licences allow foreign investors, who are not residents of the UAE, to set up an online business in Dubai. This will enable foreign companies to operate a business digitally, however international legal standards must be maintained and E-signatures will be legally binding in the United Arab Emirates. Read more

The Omani Government defines In Country Value (ICV) as - the total spend retained in-country that benefits business development, contribute to human capability development and stimulate productivity in the Omani economy. In summary this means products that are made and services provided by skilled Omanis. Read more

Every company in the UAE requires the services of a Public Relations Officer (PRO), also known as a Government Liaison Officer (GLO). PRO services refer to all activities related to processing governmental documents and paperwork, such as visa applications, labour cards, and company trade licencing documentation and approvals. Read more

Dual licensing is the latest development offered by some UAE freezones providing freezone companies with the ability to extend into the mainland ‘onshore’ UAE. Read more

Expats who have been residing in Oman for more than 20 years can now apply for Omani citizenship if they fall within the outlined prerequisites of the Citizenship Law of Oman. Read more

Applications for VAT refund in the United Arab Emirates for non-resident foreign companies are currently being accepted by the UAE Federal Tax Authority; however, the deadline is fast approaching. Read more

PRO services cover all activities relating to processing government documents such as visa applications, work permits, trade license applications which are required by every company in the UAE. Read more