United Arab Emirates: Government, Public Sector

Johannes Jonas, managing partner of Cohen & Gresser's Dubai office, explains why familiarity can create a false sense of confidence and why long-term success in the Gulf depends on understanding the region's business culture as much as its legal framework. The article examines common cultural and business mistakes made by first-time entrants and provides a practical five-point readiness checklist for companies considering expansion into the Gulf.

Recent developments across the MENA region have fundamentally altered the operating environment for foreign direct investment, particularly in Iraq and the UAE. While significant opportunities remain in energy, infrastructure, and logistics, investors now face greater variability in how projects are structured, executed, and enforced.

Tensions between Saudi Arabia and the UAE have escalated in recent months, manifesting in blocked financial transfers, delayed trade shipments, and diverging strategic visions for the Middle East. While both Gulf powers remain aligned on key objectives, their competition for economic dominance and conflicting approaches to regional conflicts reveal a growing rift that could reshape US strategy, global energy markets, and multinational business operations in the region.

The UAE enforces one of the world's strictest drug policies, where even trace amounts of controlled substances or their metabolites can trigger criminal prosecution, mandatory imprisonment, and automatic deportation for foreign nationals. Understanding the comprehensive legal framework, from airport detection methods to long-term consequences including financial restrictions and employment barriers, is essential for anyone traveling to or residing in the Emirates.

With 98% of the UAE's population being expats, understanding Dubai's strict drug laws is crucial for both visitors and residents. This video breaks down what substances are prohibited and the serious legal consequences that thousands face each year for violations.

The enactment of Federal Decree-Law No. 41 of 2022 on Civil Personal Status for Non-Muslims marked a significant legislative milestone in the United Arab Emirates.

On July 14, 2026, the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) published a final rule “Enhanced Favorable Treatment for the United Arab Emirates under the Export Administration Regulations” (Final Rule) that amends the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) (15 C.F.R. Parts 730-774) to significantly improve the status of the United Arab Emirates (UAE)...

Facing extradition in Dubai requires immediate legal action and specialized expertise in international criminal law. Understanding UAE extradition procedures, identifying qualified lawyers with proven track records, and avoiding common mistakes can determine whether you maintain your freedom or face surrender to foreign authorities.

Financial crime investigations in the UAE are subject to a strict legal and regulatory framework, including Federal Decree-Law No. 10 of 2025 on Combating Money Laundering Crimes, Combating the Financing of Terrorism...

The United Arab Emirates has rapidly evolved its regulatory framework for autonomous vehicles across federal and emirate levels, establishing comprehensive licensing, testing, and operational requirements. From Abu Dhabi's groundbreaking driverless vehicle permits to Dubai's detailed executive regulations and Ras Al Khaimah's new AV law, the UAE is creating a multi-layered compliance architecture that extends beyond road vehicles into marine and logistics applications

Many people think an Ejari certificate and a tenancy contract are the same document, but they’re not. Understanding the difference is essential because both play different legal roles when renting a property in Dubai.

The UAE legal system is seeing a major change with the issuance of Federal Decree-Law No. 25 of 2025 on Civil Transactions Law, effective 1 June 2026. It repeals and replaces in full the long-standing Federal Law...