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Just Passing Through? Legal Obligations Transit Travellers Should Know

  International transit travel is often perceived as a temporary and legally insignificant stage of a journey. Many passengers assume that, because they remain within an airport’s transit zone and do not formally enter the country, local laws and regulations do not fully apply to them. From a legal perspective, however, this assumption is incorrect […]

Termination of Employment: What Rights Do Employees Have in the UAE?

The termination of employment is one of the most significant stages in the employment relationship for both the employee and the employer. It often carries important legal, financial and practical consequences. In the UAE, employment termination is regulated by the UAE Labour Law, which sets out the rights and obligations of each party, including notice […]

Construction Law in Transition: Key Changes Under the UAE’s New Civil Code

  INTRODUCTION For approximately four decades, construction contracts in the United Arab Emirates (“UAE”) have been governed by Federal Law No. 5 of 1985 concerning the Civil Transactions Law of the UAE (the “1985 Civil Code”). However, the 1985 Civil Code is now set to be replaced by Federal Decree Law No. 25 of 2025 […]

The Legal Framework of Non-Competition Clauses under UAE Law

  Introduction The United Arab Emirates has become a prominent destination for investors due to the wide range of incentives offered by the state and its robust legal framework, which fosters a supportive environment for economic growth and foreign workforce integration. This development has led to an increase in employment opportunities and, consequently, heightened competition […]

When One Email Costs Millions: How an Ordinary Message Can Turn into Fraud

  It started as a routine email exchange. A law firm was communicating with an overseas client regarding the transfer of legal fees. The conversation was clear, expected, and entirely professional. Nothing raised concern. Until something changed, without anyone noticing. A third party had gained access to the email chain. With subtle precision, the attacker […]

Termination and Employee Rights in UAE Free Zones

  How Are Employment Contracts Issued in Free Zones? Employment contracts in free zones are issued and attested by the relevant free zone authority, not by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). Key characteristics include: Employment visas are issued based on free zone contracts No MOHRE-issued work permit or labour card is required […]

Teacher Appointment Guidelines in Dubai and the 90-Day Rule: A Regulatory Framework for Teacher Mobility and Its Interaction with UAE Labour Law

  The Teacher Appointment Guidelines recently issued by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) represent a significant regulatory development in the governance of private education in Dubai. The framework introduces a structured system for teacher recruitment, mobility, and professional eligibility, while maintaining alignment with the broader legal framework of UAE Labour Law.  These guidelines function as part of an integrated […]

What Happens If a Contract Is Signed Without Reading It Under UAE Law (Dubai)

  Introduction Contracts play a central role in commercial and personal transactions within the United Arab Emirates (“UAE”). Under UAE law, contracts are generally binding once valid consent has been established between the parties through offer and acceptance. The UAE legal system places significant emphasis on contractual certainty and the enforceability of written agreements. The […]

When Cash Flows Become a Legal Risk: Restructuring, Bankruptcy and Creditor Protection in the UAE

Recruitment Obligations under UAE Labour Law

  Overview Recruitment in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is primarily governed by Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 on the Regulation of Labour Relations, as amended (the UAE Labour Law). The law regulates recruitment practices in the private sector, covering UAE nationals and expatriates, and is enforced by the Ministry of Human Resources and […]

Liability of Parent Companies and Branches Between Formal Independence and Unity of Patrimonial Estate

  In the context of the continuous development of corporate structures and the expansion of activities through multiple entities, a precise legal question arises concerning the extent of a parent company’s liability for the obligations of its branches, and the boundaries between separation and connection of the patrimonial estates of these entities. This issue has […]

Regulations Impacting the Operation of Restaurants in the UAE: An Insight into the Legal Framework

  Introduction The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has established itself as a leading regional hub for the food and beverage (F&B) industry, driven by a dynamic consumer market, tourism growth, and a diverse population. However, operating a restaurant in the UAE requires strict adherence to a comprehensive legal and regulatory framework that spans federal legislation […]