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 has published General Procedure guide TAXP010 addressing tax treatments for Free Zones and Designated Zones. The guide clarifies operational and legal criteria, including fenced perimeters and customs supervision, required for Designated Zone status under VAT and Corporate Tax laws. It is intended to assist businesses in identifying qualifying income and navigating transactions with the UAE mainland.
The UAE Federal Tax Authority issued Public Clarification VATP047 regarding the reverse charge mechanism for domestic metal scrap transactions. Under the clarification, the VAT accounting obligation shifts from the supplier to the VAT-registered buyer. The guidance outlines mandatory documentation, supplier declarations, and verification rules for the industrial sector.
The UAE National Advance Information Center has implemented mandatory advance cargo reporting for maritime container shipments starting October 1, 2026. Under the Maritime Pre-Load Cargo Information program, carriers and freight forwarders must submit bill of lading details prior to foreign port loading or face potential Do Not Load orders.
UAE immigration authorities have outlined significant revisions to the country's entry and residency visa framework. The changes introduce specialized visit visas for artificial intelligence specialists and other sectors, alongside updated income thresholds for resident sponsors.
Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security
United Arab Emirates
Final rule
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