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Policy & Legal Updates
Source: VATupdate

UAE Sets Strict Conditions for Input VAT Recovery on Employee Expenses

The UAE Federal Tax Authority issued FTA Decision No. 17 of 2026, defining specific conditions for taxable businesses to recover input VAT on employee expenses. Effective October 1, 2026, the framework regulates benefits provided free of charge, including accommodation, transport, meals, and medical insurance. Businesses cannot claim VAT if cash alternatives are offered or if supplies serve personal benefits.

China–UAE News
Source: UAE-China Chamber of Commerce

Chinese Direct Investment in UAE Hits $2.6B Amid Expanding Financial and Energy Ties

China's outbound direct investment into the UAE reached $2.6 billion, more than tripling compared to the previous reporting year and making the UAE the top Middle Eastern recipient of Chinese direct investment capital. Beijing-based China Securities obtained regulatory approvals to establish a regional office in the Dubai International Financial Centre, where Chinese banks now represent over 30 percent of total banking and capital markets assets. Concurrently, major Chinese firms including Sinopec, CNPC, CNOOC, CATL, and Envision Energy are slated to participate in ADIPEC 2026 in Abu Dhabi.

Industry News
Source: Gulf News

Dubai and Abu Dhabi Rank Among Leading Global Cities in BCG Study

Abu Dhabi and Dubai placed among the world's leading cities for economic opportunity and quality of life in Boston Consulting Group's Cities of Choice 4.0 report. Dubai ranked fifth globally for economic opportunities—the only Middle Eastern city in the top five—and twelfth in social capital while leading globally in social connections. The 80-city study found both UAE hubs consistently outperforming global averages across resident experience indicators.

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