Abu Dhabi

The boat industry in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a significant sector due to the country's extensive coastline. The stretch of coast along the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman creates many opportunities for commercial boating ventures in fishing, marine tourism, oil & gas, logistics and transportation. Boating and yachting are also popular recreational activities among residents and tourists. There are two licensing authorities responsible for marine craft registration and maritime services in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The Dubai Maritime City Authority (DMCA) is responsible for boat registration in Dubai. The Ministry of Energy & Infrastructure (MoEI) is responsible for boar registration in Abu Dhabi and the other Emirates. Read more

In the United Arab Emirates (UAE) there is constant development of engineering structures, infrastructure, and construction sites. To ensure that the integrity of these projects is maintained, there is the need for the renewal of engineering classifications. The periodic requirement for companies to renew their engineering classification ensures that the UAE’s ever-growing dynamic urban environment can be appropriately monitored and maintained in terms of those businesses who are approved to undertake such projects. The infrastructure in place in the UAE is detrimental to the continuous development and to create sustainability in its growth. Through the renewals process, the UAE can effectively reassess the engineering and construction sector. This article looks at engineering classification renewals in the UAE, highlighting the processes for renewing the licence. Read more

All retail businesses in Al Reem Island must convert from an ADDED Mainland licence to an ADGM free zone licence by 30th March 2024 and all other businesses have until 31st December 2024 to convert to an ADGM licence. In April 2023, Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) announced its expansion into Al Reem Island in Abu Dhabi. Al Reem Island has until now been home to hundreds of Mainland businesses registered with the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED). As of November 2023, any new business wishing to set up on Al Reem Island must obtain a business licence through the ADGM Freezone. This means that an ADGM licence will be required for Al Reem Island moving forward and that existing companies must convert their licences to ADGM. Read more

For entrepreneurs looking to start an auto parts business for trading new parts and car accessories company, Qatar offers a lucrative and attractive market in an expanding economy. With a strategic geographical location and infrastructure, combined with a population with high vehicle ownership rates and an interest in cars, Qatar provides a good fit for such businesses. This article looks at how to set up a car spare parts and accessories trading company in Qatar and provides guidance on the relevant processes and documents required. Read more

To set up a pharmaceutical company or any medical facility in the UAE you will be required to obtain a UAE trade license with the Department of Economic Development (ADDED)or Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). Pharmaceutical companies may require the approval of the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP). MOHAP is the federal health authority in the UAE. Read more

A new 20% quota policy has been implemented in line with Emiratisation goals and to achieve more workplace diversity. Companies will be required to follow a 20% quota when it comes to hiring different nationalities including Indian and Pakistani populations in the UAE. Read more

Planning and preparing for your End of Service Gratuity requirements for your employees in the UAE is highly recommended. The gratuity calculation in UAE is based on the individual’s salary and length of employment with the company. It is thus essential to plan ahead for End of Service Gratuity requirements, as per UAE gratuity law. Read more

Starting an overseas business in Qatar can be both thrilling and potentially rewarding, yet it brings along its set of challenges and risks. To enhance the likelihood of success, it is crucial to recognise and avoid common mistakes that entrepreneurs often encounter when initiating their business in Qatar. This article highlights some of the key pitfalls to avoid when looking to setup a company overseas in Qatar. Read more

Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is a leading financial hub in the Middle East, offering a favourable environment for businesses in the financial sector. Establishing an insurance brokerage in DIFC can be a lucrative venture, considering the region's growing demand for insurance products and services. This article will provide a guide on how to set up an insurance brokerage in the DIFC, with the application process, outlining the preparation of documents and proposed structure. Read more

Companies must achieve annual Emiratisation targets for the year 2023 and register their Emirati workforce with one of the approved pension funds/authorities in the country before 31st December 2023. Read more