ME-ALLIANCE LEGAL INSIGHT Divorce and Khul’ Two Paths to Separation:  What’s the Difference? “Divorce and khul’ are two ways to end a marriage, but they differ in process and conditions. Under Islamic law, a woman can request khul’ if she is unable to continue the marriage, usually offering financial compensation.

ME-ALLIANCE LEGAL UPDATE Technical Regulation for Tobacco-Free Nicotine Pouches  The Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology of the United Arab Emirates has issued the UAE Standard Specification UAE.S 5061:2025 for tobacco-free nicotine pouches. This specification pertains to a product designed for oral use to deliver nicotine without the presence of

ME-ALLIANCE LEGAL UPDATE Administrative Decision No. (47) of 2024 Regarding the Licensing of Establishments Licensed in Another EmirateThe Administrative Decision No. (47) of 2024 regulates the licensing of branches of economic establishments that are licensed in another Emirate or in a free zone of another Emirate, and clarifies the conditions

ME-ALLIANCE LEGAL UPDATE Future Entrepreneurs Permit  The Abu Dhabi Registration and Licensing Authority (ADRA), in collaboration with the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood (SCMC), has launched the Future Entrepreneurs Permit. This initiative is designed to empower children aged 4 to 18 with entrepreneurial skills, financial literacy, and innovation tools,

ME-ALLIANCE LEGAL UPDATE Circular No. (3) dated February 6, 2025, for Commercial Establishment Owners  The Abu Dhabi Registration and Licensing Authority’s (ADRA) Circular No. (3) on February 6, 2025, mandating the use of Arabic as the primary language for all economic activities that directly interact with the public in the

ME-ALLIANCE LEGAL INSIGHT ADGM Courts Practice (Direction 11)  Procedural Framework For AppealThe ADGM’s Practice Direction 11 (effective 30 November 2023) provides a streamlined procedural framework for appeals in the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) Courts, covering both the Court of First Instance and the Court of Appeal. Below is a

ME-ALLIANCE LEGAL INSIGHT Types of Claims in ADGM Courts: Overview of Rules, Procedures, and Key Features  For First Instance Courts The Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) Courts are internationally recognized for their efficient and transparent approach to handling disputes. As the world’s first fully digital courts, they embrace technology and

ME-ALLIANCE LEGAL UPDATE ADGM’s Leasing Regulations in Real Estate – Bolstering Regulatory Excellence  The Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) has introduced major updates to its Real Property Regulations, unveiled new off-plan development regulations, and launched a unified digital platform, AccessRP.   These advancements aim to enhance clarity, compliance, and fairness

ME-ALLIANCE LEGAL UPDATE Federal Decree Law No. (28) of 2024 Amending Federal Law No. (1) of 1972 Concerning Jurisdiction of Ministries and Powers of Ministries – The provision of the decree concerning the education sector in the stateOn October 1, 2024, Federal Decree-Law No. 28 of 2024 was issued, amending

ME-ALLIANCE LEGAL UPDATE Federal Decree-Law No. (41) of 2024 Regarding the Issuance of the Personal Status Law► The Government of the United Arab Emirates has issued Federal Decree-Law No. (41) of 2024 concerning the Personal Status Law. This law is comprehensive and up-to-date with current and emerging issues, and its

ME-ALLIANCE LEGAL UPDATE Federal Decree-Law No. (35) of 2024 Concerning the Reorganization of the Civil Defence Authority  ► The Government of the United Arab Emirates has issued Federal Decree-Law No. (35) of 2024 concerning the reorganization of the Civil Defence Authority, which is responsible for protecting lives from hazards and

ME-ALLIANCE LEGAL UPDATE Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) Issues New Regulations for Real Estate Property  ► The Board of Directors of Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), in exercise of its powers under Article 6(1) of Law No. (4) of 2013, as amended, on the Abu Dhabi Global Market issued by

ME-ALLIANCE LEGAL UPDATE Federal Decree-Law No. (28) of 2024 Regarding the Establishment of the Ministry of Family  ► The family is considered the core foundation that ensures the cohesion and unity of society’s members. Accordingly, this Federal Decree-Law was issued to establish a new ministry called the Ministry of Family,

ME-ALLIANCE LEGAL UPDATE Ministerial Decision No. (18) of 2024 Mechanisms for Supporting Students to Enroll in Higher Education► The United Arab Emirates places great emphasis on education and scientific research by enacting numerous legislations and policies, as well as supporting and encouraging students to continue their education, thereby fostering the

ME-ALLIANCE LEGAL UPDATE The Cabinet Decision No. (123) of 2024 Regarding the Approval of the Lists of Prohibited and Restricted Goods in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Countries  ►In accordance with the efforts and strategies of the United Arab Emirates to enhance the country’s economic level and protect consumers, the

ME-ALLIANCE LEGAL UPDATE Federal Decree No. (126) of 2024 Regarding the Zayed Humanitarian Heritage Foundation   In pursuit of preserving the legacy of the founding father of the state, Sheikh Zayed, may God rest his soul in peace, along with his charitable and humanitarian work, as well as the efforts

ME-ALLIANCE LEGAL UPDATE Administrative Decision No. (274) of 2024 Regarding the Suspension of Services and Transactions for Individuals with Outstanding Obligations to the Department and its Affiliated EntitiesIn the context of improving the performance of government services and ensuring that individuals and companies fulfill their financial responsibilities, the decision by

ME-ALLIANCE LEGAL UPDATE Decision No. (180) of 2024 issued by the Head of the Community Development Authority regarding the approval of the policy for the protection of persons with disabilities (People of Determination) in the Emirate of Abu DhabiThe United Arab Emirates joined the international Convention on the Rights of

ME-ALLIANCE LEGAL UPDATE Cabinet Decision No. (91) of 2024 Regarding Lists of ExtremismThe Federal Decree-Law No. (34) of 2023 concerning the fight against discrimination, hatred, and extremism is an important step in enhancing social security and reducing the impacts of extremism in all its forms. The decree defines extremism as

ME-ALLIANCE LEGAL UPDATE Executive Council Decision No. (122) of 2024 Regarding the 40th Investment Zone in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi The Government of Abu Dhabi follows specific strategies to enhance real estate investment in the Emirate. Consequently, a number of areas have been classified as “investment zones” to allow non-citizens

ME-ALLIANCE LEGAL UPDATE Federal Decree-Law No. (13) of 2024 Regarding Protection from Domestic Violence  The family is the fundamental unit of society. The formation of a cohesive and interconnected family contributes to building a united and healthy community. This decree-law has been enacted to protect families from domestic violence and

ME-ALLIANCE LEGAL UPDATE Federal Decree-Law No. (23) of 2024 Concerning Social Support and EmpowermentThe United Arab Emirates aims to enhance the quality of life for individuals and families with limited incomes through social support. This initiative seeks to empower individuals to lead dignified lives and achieve social and financial independence,

ME-ALLIANCE LEGAL UPDATE Federal Decree-Law No. (14) of 2024 Regarding the Regulation of Traffic Rules   The UAE prioritizes enforcing laws that ensure the safety of drivers and road users  and reduce accidents and promote safe driving by rigorously applying and updating traffic regulations.   Federal Decree-Law No. (14) of

ME-ALLIANCE LEGAL UPDATE The Community Development Department adopts Volunteer Work Policy in Abu DhabiIn the framework of promoting the spirit of initiative and community engagement, the National Volunteering work policy serves as a bridge connecting individuals interested in volunteering with available opportunities, ensuring the organization of volunteer efforts in accordance

ME-ALLIANCE LEGAL UPDATE Cabinet Decision No. (95) Of 2024 Regarding the Regulation of Blue Visa  The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is committed to achieving environmental sustainability through a range of initiatives, including the “Blue Residency” program, which aims to attract individuals and investors dedicated to environmental preservation. This initiative reflects

ME-ALLIANCE LEGAL UPDATE Resolution No. (220) of 2024 Concerning the Schedule of Violations, Fines, and Administrative Penalties Related to Law No. (2) of 2012 Regarding the Preservation of the Public Appearance, Health and Public Tranquility in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi (Violations of the Regulations of Public Appearance and Public

ME-ALLIANCE LEGAL UPDATE Ministerial Decision No. (159) of 2024 Regarding the Formation of the Union Property Grievances Committee  Based on Ministerial Decision No. (159) of 2024, which aims to form a committee specialized in reviewing grievances from individuals and companies related to Union property.   The committee is tasked with

ME-ALLIANCE LEGAL UPDATE Federal Decree-Law No. (9/2024) amending some provisions of Federal Decree-Law No. (33/2021) regulating labour relations  In a competitive context, effective regulation of labor relations is essential to balance the rights and obligations of both employers and employees. Ensuring protection for workers and enabling them to secure their

ME-ALLIANCE LEGAL UPDATE Securities & commodities Authority issue a new decision to regulate Private Placement for Debt Securities, Cheques, and Financial Instruments  This decision outlines the rules for issuing bonds, cheques, and other securities through private placements. It applies to companies issuing these instruments, excluding government entities and their wholly-owned

ME-ALLIANCE LEGAL UPDATE Law No. (6) of the Year 2024 Concerning the Judicial Department in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi  The Emirate of Abu Dhabi has taken a significant step in strengthening its legal framework by establishing a dedicated Judicial Department. This new institution will report directly to the Ruler

ME-ALLIANCE LEGAL UPDATE Cabinet Resolution No. (56) of 2024 to Regulate Marketing Via Telephone Calls  On June 10, 2024, the Council of Ministers issued a landmark decision to regulate marketing via telephone calls. This decision, prompted by a comprehensive review of pertinent legislation including the Constitution and various federal laws,

ME-ALLIANCE LEGAL UPDATE Decision of the Head of the Judiciary Department No. (21) of 2024 regarding foreign lawyers accepted before the Civil Family Court  In April 16, 2024, the President of the Judiciary Department issued Decision No. (21) of 2024 regarding foreign lawyers accepted before the Civil Family Court. This

ME-ALLIANCE LEGAL UPDATE Circular No. (2) of 2024 Regarding the Public Policy Guide in the Emirate of Abu DhabiThe Abu Dhabi Executive Office recently issued Circular No. (2) of 2024 regarding the General Policy Guide in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. The preface of this circular states the following:  

ME-ALLIANCE LEGAL UPDATE Circular Number 16 of 2024 regarding the compliance requirements for economic establishments in Abu Dhabi when contracting with social media influencers. The Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) has issued Circular Number 16/2024 on June 19, 2024, addressing the compliance requirements for licensed economic establishments in

ME-ALLIANCE LEGAL UPDATE Cabinet Resolution No. (54) of 2024 – Executive Regulations for Federal Decree Law No. (24) of 2022   The Council of Ministers has issued Resolution No. (54) of 2024, implementing the executive regulations of Federal Decree Law No. (24) of 2022. This law governs the proportional relationship

Federal Decree-Law No. 16 of 2021 on Factoring and Transfer of Receivables  In August 2021, the UAE government enacted the Federal Decree-Law No. 16 on Factoring and Transfer of Receivables (hereinafter the “Law“, which came into effect ninety (90) days after its publication. This Law provides a comprehensive legal framework for the

The Dark Sky Policy Department of Municipalities and Transport – Abu Dhabi, UAE    DMT has recently issued the “Dark Sky Policy” which aims to elevate the quality of life in the emirate by upholding the highest standards and prioritizing the health and safety of residents. It establishes sustainable guidelines

The UAE Central Bank: banks & finance companies may defer personal and car loans installments for six months to overcome the repercussions of the weather condition    The Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates has issued guidance to banks and insurance companies regarding the postponement of loans and insurance