The UAE Cabinet has issued Resolution No. 174 of 2026 establishing executive regulations under Federal Decree-Law No. 14 of 2024. The new rules cap individual resident vehicle ownership at five licensed vehicles and impose additional fees for owning more than two cars. Effective January 1, the framework also sets vehicle licence validity and bans the licensing of right-hand drive vehicles.
The UAE Ministry of Finance has issued Cabinet Decision No. 173 of 2026, establishing administrative penalties for non-compliance with the country's electronic invoicing system. Fines reach up to AED 50,000 within any 12 consecutive months for failing to adopt the system or appoint an Accredited Service Provider. The new decision replaces Cabinet Decision No. 106 of 2025 and takes effect the day after publication in the Official Gazette.
Dubai Municipality has updated building regulations for Al Satwa, allowing property owners to construct taller residential and mixed-use developments. Plots along internal roads may now build a ground floor plus two residential floors, while external road plots allow commercial ground floors with two or three apartment levels. Eligible parcels of 1,000 square metres or more can qualify for up to eight residential floors above ground with a floor area ratio of up to 3.5.
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum introduced new regulatory and digital initiatives permitting visitors to apply directly for tourist visas through the Visit Dubai platform starting November 2026. The launch also features the invitation-only Dubai Access Club, offering repeat visitors a five-year multi-entry visa permitting stays of up to 90 days annually. Visa applications continue to be vetted and formally approved by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs.
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