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 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.
The UAE Federal Tax Authority has introduced Decision No. 13 of 2026, requiring businesses to execute and document specific checks on suppliers and individual transactions before claiming input VAT deductions. Taking effect on 1 October 2026, the regulation implements Article 54 bis of the UAE VAT Law to prevent tax evasion across supply chains. Compliance rules introduce specific rolling 12-month transaction thresholds of AED 100,000 and AED 375,000.
The UAE Federal Tax Authority has warned businesses to prepare for the nationwide mandatory e-invoicing framework. Companies with annual revenues of AED 50 million or more must appoint an Accredited Service Provider by October 30, 2026. Entities earning under AED 50 million face a deadline of March 31, 2027, with penalties anticipated for non-compliance.
UAE Federal Tax Authority
United Arab Emirates
Effective October 30, 2026
Final rule
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