Understand the policies, laws and regulations shaping business across China and the UAE.
Business registration · Investment · Taxation · Customs · Trade · Financial regulation · Employment · Visas · Free-zone policies. Every update identifies the issuing authority, jurisdiction, publication date, effective date and official source.
The UAE's non-oil economy expanded 4.8% in the first quarter of 2026, raising its share of national output to 79.4%. Total real GDP grew 3% to Dh485 billion during the period. The figures were presented during an Economic Integration Committee meeting reviewing economic clusters and compliance frameworks.
Asset management and fund setup activity across DIFC and ADGM has rebounded strongly following the summer months despite regional tensions. According to an analysis published in Funds Global MENA by law firm Simmons & Simmons, proximity to sovereign wealth funds and engaged regulators continue to draw international asset managers. The influx spans hedge fund startups, European relocations, and new regulated fund launches.
The Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Abu Dhabi Global Market has outlined its regulatory reform agenda through 2027, covering funds, digital assets, and decentralized finance. The roadmap introduces streamlined regimes for sub-threshold and institutional fund managers alongside forthcoming guidance on DeFi activities. ADGM currently hosts over 410 authorised financial institutions, with approximately 160 additional firms seeking authorisation.
UAE companies with annual turnover of Dh50 million or more must appoint an Accredited Service Provider by October 30, 2026. The requirement precedes the mandatory nationwide launch of unified e-invoicing on January 1, 2027. Delays will incur a penalty of Dh5,000 per month.
Ministry of Finance
United Arab Emirates
Effective October 30, 2026
Final rule
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