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Policy updates, China–UAE developments, industry news and official Middle East travel alerts.

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October 1, 2026Source: Emirates 24|7

UAE Central Bank Imposes Tighter Oversight and Fund Separation on Takaful Operators

The Central Bank of the UAE introduced enhanced regulatory rules on September 30, 2026, governing Islamic insurance providers. Under the framework, subscriber contribution funds must be maintained in an independent fund with separate legal personality and financial liability. The regulations also require prior regulatory approval for participant fund transfers and central bank sign-off for annual surplus distributions.

Policy & Legal Updates

October 1, 2026Source: Seetao

UAE Imposes Stricter VAT Due Diligence Requirements for Input Tax Recovery

The UAE Federal Tax Authority has introduced Decision No. 13 of 2026, requiring businesses to execute and document specific checks on suppliers and individual transactions before claiming input VAT deductions. Taking effect on 1 October 2026, the regulation implements Article 54 bis of the UAE VAT Law to prevent tax evasion across supply chains. Compliance rules introduce specific rolling 12-month transaction thresholds of AED 100,000 and AED 375,000.

Policy & Legal Updates

October 1, 2026Source: Arabian Business

UAE Tax Authority Issues Mandatory E-Invoicing Deadlines for Businesses

The UAE Federal Tax Authority has warned businesses to prepare for the nationwide mandatory e-invoicing framework. Companies with annual revenues of AED 50 million or more must appoint an Accredited Service Provider by October 30, 2026. Entities earning under AED 50 million face a deadline of March 31, 2027, with penalties anticipated for non-compliance.

China–UAE News

October 1, 2026Source: UAE-China Chamber of Commerce

Chinese Direct Investment in UAE Hits $2.6 Billion as Financial Footprint Expands

China's outbound direct investment to the UAE reached $2.6 billion, more than tripling the previous year's total as overall Middle East flows doubled. In parallel, Beijing-based China Securities secured regulatory approvals to open a regional office in the Dubai International Financial Centre. Chinese banking institutions now account for over 30 percent of total assets in DIFC's Banking and Capital Markets sector.