The UAE Federal Tax Authority has issued Decision No. 4 of 2026, setting updated technical and operational standards for accounting records. The rules apply to all corporate tax and VAT-registered entities across mainland and free-zone jurisdictions regardless of size.
Dubai Municipality has identified more than 44 areas across the emirate where buildings and villas may be allocated for shared housing under Law No. (4) of 2026. The newly issued planning guide mandates minimum space requirements and restricts buildings to either individual or family accommodation. Property owners and leasing operators have been granted a one-year period running from September 8, 2026, to regularise existing properties.
The UAE has established a five-year Golden Residency visa pathway for high-achieving secondary school students and their families without requiring a local sponsor. According to the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security, applicants must achieve at least 95 percent on their secondary school examinations and receive a recommendation from the Ministry of Education. The program aims to attract and retain international talent across academic and professional fields.
The UAE Federal Tax Authority issued Decision No. 17 of 2026 setting conditions for businesses to recover input VAT on employee expenses from 1 October 2026. Separately, the authority released guidance on the Qualified Domestic Minimum Top-up Tax for qualifying multinational groups.
Policy updates, China–UAE business news and industry insights, delivered to your inbox.
Membership
Tell us about your experience and connection to UAE–China business. UECN assesses your application and offers the right membership category — fees are shared privately with your offer.
We send you a one-time sign-in link — your answers are saved as you go.
