Policy & Legal Updates

UAE E-Invoicing Deadlines Approach for Large Businesses Ahead of October 30 Requirement

UAE businesses generating annual revenue of Dh50 million or more must appoint an Accredited Service Provider by October 30, 2026, ahead of mandatory e-invoicing starting January 1, 2027. Smaller enterprises and government entities face a provider appointment deadline of March 31, 2027, prior to phased go-live dates later that year. Non-compliance results in a monthly penalty of Dh5,000 under Cabinet Decision No. 106 of 2025.

Policy & Legal Updates

UAE Federal Supreme Court Rules Consumers May Film Violations to Report Them

The UAE Federal Supreme Court has ruled that documenting suspected violations and submitting footage to regulatory authorities is not a criminal offence if done in good faith. The judgment overturned an appeal court ruling that had fined a Sharjah consumer Dh3,000 for filming insects in a supermarket product. The court clarified that prosecutors must prove malicious intent to harm or defame before recording can be classified as a crime.

Policy & Legal Updates

UAE Residents Changing Jobs Can Put Family Visas on Hold Within Same Emirate

UAE expatriates switching employers can temporarily place their dependants' residence visas on hold instead of cancelling them, provided the job transition occurs within the same emirate. The procedure requires a refundable security deposit of AED 5,000 and must be concluded within a 60-day window to avoid forfeiting the funds. Applications are processed through Dubai's GDRFA or the federal ICP platform depending on the jurisdiction.

Policy & Legal Updates

UAE Family Health Insurance Rules Vary Across Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Northern Emirates

Expatriate health insurance regulations and employer mandates vary widely across the UAE, according to a report by NRI Affairs. Abu Dhabi requires employers to insure an employee's spouse and up to three children, whereas Dubai requires coverage only for the employee, and the Northern Emirates basic scheme excludes dental and maternity entirely.