United Arab Emirates: Inward/ Foreign Investment

The 2026 Prescribed Company Regulations introduce key considerations around ownership, licensing, CSP appointments, and regulatory compliance for investors structuring investments through the DIFC. This practical guide examines the updated framework and highlights critical points investors must consider when establishing and maintaining a Prescribed Company.

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.

Dubai and Abu Dhabi have expanded the Golden Visa program, now offering 10-year residency to yacht owners and skilled professionals, including nurses, content creators, gaming experts, and educators.

What is the current business climate in your jurisdiction including major political, economic and/or legal activities on the horizon in your country that could have a big impact on businesses?

On March 3, 2025, the Dubai Executive Council released Decision No. 11/2025 (the "Decision"), which introduces new regulations for free zone entities...

Senior associate Michèle El Khoury examines recently introduced reforms to real estate investment funds in Dubai, for Global Restructuring Review, which she says aim to strengthen the jurisdiction's position...

At the end of last year, World Trade Organization (WTO) members agreed that the 13th Ministerial Conference (MC13) of the WTO will take place in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), in February 2024.

The Saudi Arabian Vision 2030 is predicated on the development and diversification of the economy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (Saudi Arabia). To realise Vision 2030, the Saudi Arabian...