India

Policy & Legal Updates

UAE VAT Amendments Restrict Input Tax Recovery on Employee-Related Business Expenses

The UAE has revised value-added tax rules governing input tax deductions, narrowing the scope of recoverable employee-related expenses and cash purchases. The new framework took effect on October 1 following guidance published by the Federal Tax Authority on September 28. Tax experts note that labour-intensive companies face heightened compliance procedures and potentially hundreds of thousands of dirhams in added annual costs.

Policy & Legal Updates

Trump Seeks 60 Days to Assess Russia Sanctions Law Impact, Rubio Says

US President Donald Trump is taking a 60-day period to evaluate the economic consequences of imposing Russia-related sanctions and secondary tariffs, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said. The announcement follows an executive order waiving penalties under the Graham Act, which included proposed 100 percent tariffs on top purchasers of Russian oil and gas, such as China and India. Rubio stated the pause is intended to study the broader repercussions on global energy markets and domestic industries.

Industry News

UAE and Kuwait Expand Naphtha Exports to Asia via Offshore Transfers

The UAE and Kuwait have increased naphtha exports to Asian petrochemical producers using ship-to-ship transfer operations conducted outside the Strait of Hormuz. Between August and September, ADNOC and Kuwait Petroleum Corporation exported approximately 1.6 million metric tons of naphtha, more than doubling shipments from the March-April period. The surge reflects growing utilization of alternative loading and offshore transshipment hubs including Fujairah and waters off Oman and India.

Policy & Legal Updates

UAE Leads 2026 Passport Index With Mobility Score of 182, Report Shows

The United Arab Emirates ranks first in the 2026 Passport Index compiled by Arton Capital, offering simplified travel access to 182 destinations. Singapore and Malaysia share second place with access to 175 destinations, followed by Spain with 174. India ranks 72nd with a mobility score of 70, while the United States holds the 10th position.