M&A, corporate strategy and major deals in the region
Incorporating a UAE company is the first step. Staying compliant after incorporation requires action across six regulatory tracks — corporate tax registration, VAT registration, WPS salary setup, Emiratisation, health insurance, and annual licenc
UAE labour law is governed by Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 (the Labour Law), effective 2 February 2022, replacing the 1980 Labour Law. The new framework introduced fixed-term contracts, flexible work models, anti-discrimination protections,
Opening a corporate bank account is the single slowest step in UAE company formation — taking 2 to 12 weeks depending on jurisdiction, entity type, and banking relationship. UAE banks have progressively tightened KYC requirements since 2024, and
The UAE retirement visa is a 5-year renewable residence permit for individuals aged 55 and older who want to retire in the UAE. Applicants must meet one of three financial thresholds: AED 1 million in savings, AED 1 million in property, or AED
The UAE issues a 1-year remote work visa that allows digital nomads, freelancers, and remote employees of foreign companies to live in the UAE while working for an employer or clients based outside the country. The visa does not require a UAE
The UAE Green Visa is a 5-year self-sponsored residence permit that allows skilled employees, freelancers, and investors to stay in the UAE independently of their employer. Unlike the standard 2-year employment visa — which is cancelled when the
The UAE freelance visa allows independent professionals to live, work, and invoice clients from the UAE without a traditional employer. Freelance permits are issued by specific free zones — including TECOM Group (Dubai Media City, Dubai Internet
UAE entrepreneurs and investors can sponsor spouse, children (regardless of age under the Golden Visa), parents, and one domestic worker on their residence visa. The minimum salary requirement is AED 4,000 per month with employer-provided accom
The UAE issues two investor-linked residence permits: the Golden Visa (10-year) for investments of AED 2 million+ and the standard Investor Visa (2- or 3-year) for company owners and shareholders who do not meet the Golden Visa threshold. Bot
The UAE Golden Visa application costs AED 10,400 in government fees, including exceptional-processing charges. Total out-of-pocket cost — including medical test, Emirates ID, health insurance, and professional advisory — ranges from AED 14,000
