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 is evaluating a commercial tender that could double its nuclear reactor fleet while exploring small modular reactors for data centres, ports, and hydrogen production, according to an analysis by law firm Stephenson Harwood reported by Utilities Middle East. The expansion builds upon the fully operational 5.6 GW Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant to support projected power market growth from 54.15 GW to 68.08 GW. Advanced reactor initiatives include partnerships on GE Vernova Hitachi's BWRX-300 SMR and NANO Nuclear Energy's KRONOS micro-modular reactor.
China's property market slump has dragged on for five years, with falling values and mounting debt straining developers and households. Government-backed developer China Vanke reported a record 89 billion yuan loss, while China Evergrande was delisted from the Hong Kong stock exchange. In response, Chinese authorities have introduced mortgage interest subsidies and relaxed municipal purchase rules as falling values push millions of mortgages underwater.
The UAE Federal Tax Authority has directed businesses with annual revenues of Dh50 million or more to appoint an Accredited Service Provider by October 30, 2026, or face monthly penalties. Separately, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security clarified that in-country tourist visa extensions are capped at 120 days and business exploration permits at 180 days. Both authorities detailed financial penalties for non-compliance and overstaying.
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.
Central Bank of the UAE
United Arab Emirates
Final rule
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