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.
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum launched three initiatives to bolster Dubai's tourism competitiveness under the D33 agenda. The measures allow international tourists to apply directly for visas via Visit Dubai, establish an exclusive frequent visitor club, and unify digital travel channels.
Dubai Executive Council Resolution No. 11 allows eligible free zone companies to operate in the mainland market without establishing duplicate onshore entities. Mainland access is granted via permits from Dubai Economy and Tourism tied to existing free zone business activities. Financial institutions governed by the Dubai International Financial Centre are excluded from the regime.
Under UAE labour regulations, employers may enforce non-compete clauses barring former employees from joining rivals for up to two years if specific statutory criteria are met. The restrictions must define time, geography, and scope of work, while employers bear the legal burden of proving actual financial damage in court. Clauses become void if an employer terminates the employment unlawfully or breaches contractual obligations.
UAE legislation imposes severe criminal penalties, including imprisonment and fines of up to Dh500,000, for online statements that constitute defamation, insult, or invasion of privacy. Legal guidance published in Khaleej Times highlights the distinction between objective, evidence-backed consumer feedback and unlawful personal attacks or false claims. The statutory framework is governed by Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021 on Cybercrimes alongside the UAE Crimes and Penalties Law.
Federal Government of the UAE
United Arab Emirates
Final rule
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