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 Federal Tax Authority published Tax Public Clarification TAXP010 explaining how businesses must assess whether facilities qualify as Free Zones or Designated Zones. The guidance emphasizes that zone definitions differ across Corporate Tax, Value Added Tax, and Excise Tax laws. Qualifying for a 0% Corporate Tax rate requires meeting specific statutory criteria, including separate evaluation from VAT Designated Zone status.
Dubai Municipality has introduced new regulations for shared accommodation, giving building owners 12 months to comply. The rules apply to over 40 designated areas, requiring a minimum of five square metres per occupant per bedroom. Non-compliance carries fines ranging from Dh500 to Dh1 million for repeat offences.
Dubai Municipality has released the Planning and Building Requirements Guide for Shared Housing and Permitted Areas to implement Dubai Law No. 4 of 2026. The new guidelines establish updated occupancy and safety standards across more than 44 designated zones. Properties must be categorized strictly for individual or family use, with a minimum bedroom space of 5 square metres per resident.
The Sharjah Executive Council has issued a regulatory decision establishing the Sharjah Occupational Safety and Health System (OSHJ). The policy mandates workplace and accommodation safety standards across all public entities and private businesses in the emirate. Enforcement authority and inspection powers have been designated to the Sharjah Police alongside provisions for administrative fines.
Sharjah Executive Council
Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
Final rule
The UECN Brief
Policy updates, China–UAE business news and industry insights, delivered to your inbox.
Business relationships in both markets
Forums, delegations and events
Policy updates and market insights
Membership
Join a network with a shared purpose.
Tell us about your experience and connection to UAE–China business. UECN assesses your application and offers the right membership category — fees are shared privately with your offer.
We send you a one-time sign-in link — your answers are saved as you go.
