Corporate transparency has become one of the defining themes of business regulation over the past decade. As governments and financial institutions place greater emphasis on verifying company information, keeping corporate records accurate and up to date has become an increasingly important part of running a business. What does a corporate secretary do for companyContinue reading “What company secretarial services do to help businesses stay on top of their obligations”
Author Archives: Bianca Beck
Understanding the difference between Commercial Registration and Commercial Licence in Qatar
A Commercial Registration and a Commercial Licence are among the first approvals a business will encounter when establishing in Qatar. Because they are often issued as part of the same establishment process, they are frequently treated as though they perform the same function. In practice, each serves a different legal purpose. Commercial Registration (CR) QatarContinue reading “Understanding the difference between Commercial Registration and Commercial Licence in Qatar”
The latest ADGM news and what these developments says about its evolution
The latest Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) news has reported another period of strong growth, with assets under management increasing by 57% in the first quarter of 2026 and the total number of active licences exceeding 13,000 for the first time. Those figures reinforce Abu Dhabi’s growing appeal to international investors, but the announcements thatContinue reading “The latest ADGM news and what these developments says about its evolution”
Fund structuring and fund setup in DIFC and ADGM
The UAE has become one of the region’s leading locations for investment funds, asset managers and investment platforms. Much of this activity is concentrated within the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), which have developed dedicated regulatory frameworks designed specifically for financial services businesses and investment structures. For fund sponsors,Continue reading “Fund structuring and fund setup in DIFC and ADGM”
DIFC Proposes Changes to Prescribed Company Regulations
The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) has launched a significant consultation on proposed amendments to its DIFC Prescribed Company Regulation in 2026, signalling one of the most meaningful shifts in the Centre’s structuring landscape since the regime’s introduction in 2019. These changes make DIFC more accessible, improve global competitiveness for holding structures and asset ownership.Continue reading “DIFC Proposes Changes to Prescribed Company Regulations”
Dubai South (DWC): The Next Big Investment Opportunity in Dubai
Dubai South Free Zone is becoming one of the UAE’s fastest-growing business hubs, driven by the expansion of Al Maktoum International Airport and major infrastructure investment. For companies involved in logistics, aviation, trading and regional distribution, it offers a strategic location, modern facilities and long-term growth potential.
Corporate Governance and Regulatory Compliance Are Underestimated in the UAE
Companies in the UAE must meet ongoing corporate governance and regulatory compliance requirements long after incorporation. Depending on the jurisdiction and business activity, these may include licence renewals, corporate tax compliance, accounting, statutory filings, visa administration, company records and AML obligations for regulated businesses.
Managing Iqama and Visa Validity in Saudi Arabia
Expired Iqamas or exit/re-entry visas can create serious operational disruption for companies in Saudi Arabia, particularly when employees are outside the Kingdom. For General Managers, expiry issues can restrict access to government systems, delay renewals and in some cases require the full visa process to be restarted.
Qiwa – New Rules for Backdated Employment Contracts
Saudi Arabia’s Qiwa platform now requires employers to submit supporting documents when registering employment contracts backdated by more than one month. This applies to GOSI validation and is intended to improve compliance, accuracy of employee records and alignment with labour regulations.
New Capital Requirements for General Manager Appointments in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia now requires companies appointing General Managers from certain nationalities to meet a minimum capital threshold of over SAR 200,000 for visa approval. This applies to candidates from Turkey, Lebanon and Yemen who are not existing Iqama holders, with compliance required at the final approval stage.