The Key Laws Introduced in The UAE to Ease Business

January 20, 2020

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has implemented several key laws and regulations aimed at easing business operations, fostering economic growth, and attracting foreign investment. These legislative initiatives play a crucial role in creating a favorable business environment and enhancing the country’s competitiveness on the global stage. Here are some of the key laws introduced in the UAE to ease business:

1. Foreign Direct Investment Law: In 2018, the UAE government introduced the Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Law, allowing foreign investors to own 100% of their businesses in certain sectors outside free zones. This landmark legislation opened up new opportunities for foreign investment and encouraged greater participation in the UAE’s economy.
2. Bankruptcy Law: The UAE enacted a comprehensive Bankruptcy Law in 2016, providing a legal framework for distressed companies to restructure their debts and avoid liquidation. The law offers greater protection to creditors and promotes a more efficient resolution of financial distress, thereby encouraging entrepreneurship and risk-taking.
3. Commercial Companies Law: The UAE’s Commercial Companies Law governs the formation and operation of companies in the country. Recent amendments to the law have introduced greater flexibility in corporate governance, simplified procedures for company formation, and enhanced protection for minority shareholders, making it easier to do business in the UAE.
4. Value-Added Tax (VAT) Law: In 2018, the UAE implemented a 5% VAT regime, requiring businesses to collect and remit VAT on eligible goods and services. While initially posing challenges for businesses, the VAT Law has streamlined tax administration, improved fiscal sustainability, and diversified government revenue sources.
5. Free Zone Regulations: The UAE’s free zones offer numerous incentives and benefits to businesses, including 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, and streamlined regulatory procedures. Recent reforms have enhanced the regulatory framework governing free zones, making them more attractive destinations for foreign investment and fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.
6. Data Protection Regulations: With the growing importance of data privacy and cybersecurity, the UAE has introduced data protection regulations to safeguard the personal information of individuals and businesses. Compliance with these regulations is essential for businesses operating in the UAE, ensuring the secure handling and processing of sensitive data.
7. Investment Promotion Initiatives: The UAE government has launched various investment promotion initiatives and incentive programs to attract foreign investment and stimulate economic growth. These initiatives include sector-specific incentives, grants, subsidies, and support services designed to facilitate business setup and expansion.
8. Labour Law Reforms: The UAE has introduced several reforms to its Labour Law aimed at enhancing worker rights, promoting workplace safety, and improving the overall labor market environment. These reforms include measures to regulate working hours, protect employee rights, and provide recourse for labor disputes.

Overall, these key laws and regulations introduced in the UAE reflect the government’s commitment to promoting economic diversification, encouraging investment, and fostering a business-friendly environment conducive to sustainable growth and development. By implementing progressive reforms and embracing innovation, the UAE aims to position itself as a leading global business hub and destination for foreign investment.