Policy & Legal Updates

Robinhood Secures DFSA Approval for Planned 2027 Dubai Retail Trading Launch

Robinhood Markets has secured regulatory authorization from the Dubai Financial Services Authority to offer retail trading and custody services from the Dubai International Financial Centre. The company plans to launch its regional product suite in 2027, establishing its Middle East and North Africa headquarters in Dubai. The regulatory permission covers ten DFSA-permitted asset classes, including equities, cryptocurrencies, exchange-traded funds, and investment tokens.

Industry News

Hermes Sales Hit by Chinese Spending Curbs and Dubai Retail Disruptions

Hermes International reported flat constant-currency revenue in its region that includes China for the third quarter, trailing analyst expectations of 1.6% growth. The performance was weighed down by Chinese consumer spending cutbacks and regional conflict disrupting shopping destinations such as Dubai. Following the announcement, Hermes shares fell up to 9% in Paris, extending year-to-date declines to 41%.

China–UAE News

Masdar and EWEC Advance $6.1 Billion Round-the-Clock Solar and Storage Project

Masdar and Emirates Water and Electricity Company are developing a $6.1-billion continuous clean energy project in Abu Dhabi. The system integrates a 5.2 GW solar photovoltaic plant with 19 GWh of battery energy storage to supply 1 GW of baseload power. A 13-bank consortium that includes Bank of China is providing a $5.1-billion financing package.

Policy & Legal Updates

UAE Corporate Tax and Ownership Rules Reshape Business Setup Choices in Dubai

Company formation advisory firm RadiantBiz has highlighted how UAE corporate tax and foreign ownership reforms are impacting setup choices for incoming founders in Dubai. The implementation of a 9% corporate tax on profits exceeding AED 375,000 and updated mainland licensing rules require investors to align legal structures with operational revenue models.