Policy update

Policy & Legal Updates

UAE Permits Healthcare Facilities to Apply for Sick Leave Certificates for Patients

The UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention has updated its sick leave procedures, transferring the responsibility of submitting attestation requests from patients to licensed hospitals and clinics. Under the revised framework, eligible requests will transition automatically to approval without requiring separate applications. The simplified process applies to federal employees and local government staff in Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah.

Policy & Legal Updates

UAE Central Bank Introduces Comprehensive Islamic Finance Regulatory Framework

The Central Bank of the UAE has introduced Central Bank Regulation No. 1/2026, creating a comprehensive framework for Islamic financial institutions and takaful operators. Implementing aspects of Federal Decree-Law No. 50/2022, the rules cover a wide array of Islamic financial contracts and structures. Legal experts note that businesses and financial entities may need to review their compliance and documentation.

Policy & Legal Updates

UAE Sets 9-Hour Driving Limit in 24 Hours Under New 2027 Traffic Regulations

Under UAE federal traffic regulations taking effect on January 1, 2027, motorists will be restricted to a maximum of nine hours of driving within a 24-hour period. Issued under Cabinet Decision No. 174 of 2026, the general obligation applies to all drivers and explicitly prohibits driving while fatigued regardless of hours driven. The regulation also empowers the Federal Traffic Council to modify the driving threshold.

Policy & Legal Updates

UAE Revises E-Invoicing Penalty Framework Following First Service Provider Appointment Deadline

UAE businesses with annual revenues of AED 50 million or more reached the mandatory 30 October 2026 deadline to appoint an Accredited Service Provider ahead of the 1 January 2027 rollout. Concurrently, the UAE Ministry of Finance introduced Cabinet Decision No. 173 of 2026, replacing earlier regulations and capping implementation penalties at AED 50,000 per year. The revised framework also adjusts invoicing deadlines to business days and eliminates notifications for system failures.