Latest news with #LawNo.7
Mid East Info
14-07-2025
- Politics
- Mid East Info
Rabdan Academy Launches Educational Visit to South Korea to Strengthen International Academic and Cultural Exchange
rich and immersive journey to enhance student learning, cultural awareness, and exposure to global best practices in safety, security and strategic innovation. Field visits to leading Korean institutions, including Seoul National University, Korea University, MOIS Disaster Management Bureau, and the National Cyber Security Centre. Student interviews and academic documentation to capture key learning outcomes. Abu Dhabi – UAE – July 2025: Rabdan Academy has announced the launch of an official educational visit to the Republic of Korea, taking place from 18 to 30 July 2025, with the participation of selected students and specialized faculty and administrative members from the Academy. The visit forms part of Rabdan Academy's efforts to strengthen international academic cooperation and offer its students unique exposure to global strategic environments, while immersing them in diverse cultural and learning experiences. The Academy's delegation will engage in a number of institutional visits and knowledge-exchange activities across South Korea, including Seoul National University, Korea University, the Ministry of Interior and Safety (MOIS) – Disaster and Safety Management Bureau, and the National Cyber Security Centre, in addition to visits to cultural sites such as Gyeongbokgung Palace, the War Memorial of KoA rea, and the National Museum of Korea. This initiative reflects Rabdan Academy's commitment to preparing its students to become future leaders in safety, security, defence and emergency preparedness, while equipping them with a global outlook and practical skills through direct exposure to advanced institutions and practices. The Academy emphasized that the visit also serves as a platform for enhancing institutional partnerships, documenting lessons learned, and building bridges between academic innovation and real-world applications. Throughout the visit, interviews will be conducted with students at each stop to reflect on their experiences, capture insights, and produce a closing documentary video that celebrates the Academy's educational diplomacy in action. About Rabdan Academy: Rabdan Academy is a government-owned world-class education institution established to coordinate and enhance learning outcomes for organisations and individuals in the Safety, Security, Defence, Emergency Preparedness and Crisis Management (SSDEC) Sectors. The Academy was officially established under Law No. 7 for 2013, issued by the late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and is accredited by the UAE's Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA) of the Ministry of Education. The Academy is the world's first higher education institution specializing in the SSDEC domain to achieve a top '5-Star' rating in six key categories of the QS Stars University Rating System: Teaching, Facilities, Employability, Global Engagement, Academic Development, and Good Governance. As a unique institution, the Academy provides learning in a dual approach, combining academic and vocational education in one place, whilst recognising prior learning and experience and providing accredited and transferable credit from course to course and job to job.
Hi Dubai
13-06-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
Foreign-Owned Real Estate Firms Surge in the UAE: Opportunities and Challenges
What is really driving the rise of foreign-owned real estate firms in the UAE? It goes far beyond tall towers and lifestyle promises. At the center of this momentum are new laws, global investor demand, and a well-planned strategy that has turned Dubai and the wider UAE into a magnet for international property firms. In this article, we explore what's behind the growth of foreign-owned real estate firms in the UAE, unpack the many benefits available, and examine the challenges that investors should consider before entering this fast-evolving market. The Policy Reforms That Changed Everything Opening the Market to Foreign Ownership Dubai's real estate transformation began in 2002 when freehold ownership was introduced. This allowed non-UAE nationals to purchase, sell, and lease properties in specific areas. But the real boost came in 2006 with Law No. 7, which legally protected these rights under a formal registry. Since then, Dubai has gradually expanded its list of freehold zones to include high-demand areas like: Dubai Marina Downtown Dubai Palm Jumeirah Al Wasl Meydan Dubai South Al Jaddaf Sheikh Zayed Road (SZR) These zones are carefully chosen based on demand potential, urban development plans, and infrastructure access. Meanwhile, other emirates like Abu Dhabi offer leasehold rights to foreigners, typically for 99 years, but with more restrictions compared to Dubai. This means a foreign investor's experience varies by emirate and requires location-specific legal advice. Full Company Ownership Reform (2020) Previously, foreign investors had to partner with a local Emirati sponsor to start a business in the UAE. This changed dramatically in 2020 when the government removed this requirement, allowing full foreign ownership of onshore companies across most sectors, including real estate development and brokerage. This gave foreign real estate firms the ability to operate independently, register under their own name, and control their business strategy, making Dubai even more attractive for long-term real estate operations. The Role of Economic Diversification and Urban Planning While real estate was booming, the UAE's leadership realized that long-term sustainability required a diversified economy. Dubai, especially, had limited oil reserves and needed new sources of growth. Real estate became the foundation for other sectors like tourism, finance, trade, and healthcare to thrive. Its direct and indirect contributions to GDP made it a centerpiece of national planning efforts. Key government plans that shaped the sector: Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan: Focuses on sustainability, green mobility, and population growth across five urban centers. Focuses on sustainability, green mobility, and population growth across five urban centers. UAE Centennial 2071: Aims to position the UAE as a global leader in innovation, education, and investment over the next 50 years. Aims to position the UAE as a global leader in innovation, education, and investment over the next 50 years. Tourism Strategy 2031: Designed to attract over 40 million hotel guests annually, boosting hospitality-driven real estate demand. These initiatives created fertile ground for large-scale, mixed-use real estate projects that appeal to international developers. A Tax-Friendly Environment for Foreign Real Estate Investors The UAE's tax policy is one of the strongest selling points for investors. Here's what makes it exceptional: No property tax: Owners don't pay annual property taxes, unlike in countries like the US or the UK. Owners don't pay annual property taxes, unlike in countries like the US or the UK. No capital gains tax: Profit from selling property is not taxed. Profit from selling property is not taxed. No personal income tax: Rental income is tax-free for individual owners not conducting formal business. Rental income is tax-free for individual owners not conducting formal business. Corporate tax (9%) only applies to taxable profits exceeding AED 375,000 for businesses. REITs and income from properties leased in free zones may qualify for exemptions. only applies to taxable profits exceeding AED 375,000 for businesses. REITs and income from properties leased in free zones may qualify for exemptions. No inheritance tax or wealth tax for property passed to heirs. On top of this, the UAE has signed over 140 double taxation agreements with countries worldwide, protecting investors from being taxed in both their home and host countries(Source: UAE Ministry of Finance, 2024). Strategic Infrastructure and Free Zones: A Built-in Advantage The UAE doesn't rely on policy alone—it has backed up its ambitions with world-class infrastructure. For foreign real estate firms, this signals long-term value, stability, and operational ease. Key highlights: Transport infrastructure Ongoing expansion of Al Maktoum International Airport, projected to be the largest airport by capacity. Efficient metro and tram systems, with new routes planned along growth corridors. Excellent road networks and maritime connectivity at Jebel Ali Port. Power and logistics Smart city initiatives are improving digital infrastructure, AI-based planning, and sustainability features in buildings. Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) offers reliable and cost-efficient services. Free zones boosting commercial activity Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) Dubai Internet City Dubai Design District (d3) Dubai South Dubai Silicon Oasis These zones offer benefits like 100% foreign ownership, zero customs duties, and fast-tracked setup processes, making them a popular choice for foreign developers. Who's Building—and Who's Buying? Top Developers Leading the Charge Dubai's skyline is shaped by a handful of powerful developers who dominate both the luxury and mid-tier markets. Their global reputation and ability to deliver large-scale projects act as a safety net for foreign investors. Emaar Properties: Known for Burj Khalifa, The Dubai Mall, and Dubai Hills Estate. Known for Burj Khalifa, The Dubai Mall, and Dubai Hills Estate. Damac Properties: Specializes in luxury residences and branded communities like DAMAC Lagoons and DAMAC Hills. Specializes in luxury residences and branded communities like DAMAC Lagoons and DAMAC Hills. Nakheel: Created the iconic Palm Jumeirah and other waterfront mega-projects. Created the iconic Palm Jumeirah and other waterfront mega-projects. Sobha Realty, Meraas, Azizi Developments, Danube Properties: Known for delivering high-end apartments and family-friendly communities. Top Investor Nationalities (Dubai Land Department Data) Year Total Investment Value Top Foreign Investors 2015 AED 81 Billion India, UK, Pakistan 2017 AED 84 Billion Foreign women investors = AED 21 Billion 2023 USD 172.6 Billion 42% from non-resident foreign investors 2024 AED 761 Billion 110,000 new investors (Russia, India, China) (Source: Dubai Land Department Annual Reports 2015–2024) This broad mix of nationalities reduces the risk of over-dependence on any one market, offering resilience in times of global economic shifts. Market Performance: A Snapshot of Strong, Sustained Growth The UAE real estate sector, especially in Dubai, has shown steady performance backed by rising prices, robust rental yields, and increasing transaction volumes. These numbers tell a story of both strong demand and real investor confidence. Key Indicators of Dubai's Market Health (2023–2025) Metric Value/Rate Period Source Total Transactions 226,000 2024 Dubai Land Department (DLD) Total Investment Value AED 761 Billion 2024 DLD Residential Price Growth 20.7% (YoY) Q1 2024 CBRE, Knight Frank Reports Apartment Price Increase 20.43% (YoY) Q1 2024 Property Monitor Villa Price Increase 22.08% (YoY) Q1 2024 Bayut & Dubizzle Annual Reports Commercial Property Price Growth 13.19% (YoY) 2024 Asteco, Savills Office Occupancy Rate (Dubai & AD) 94% 2024 JLL UAE Market Overview Rental Yields (Luxury) 4.5% – 6.5% Early 2025 Est Property Finder, Betterhomes Rental Yields (Mid-market) 6.0% – 8.5% Early 2025 Est Property Finder, Bayut Rental Yields (Affordable) 7.0% – 9.5% Early 2025 Est DLD, real estate brokerage reports UAE GDP Growth Forecast ~4.7% 2025 UAE Central Bank These figures point toward a fundamentally strong market, where price growth is backed by real demand, and rental yields remain competitive even by global standards. Opportunities for Foreign Investors For global real estate firms and individual investors, Dubai offers much more than high returns. The investment comes with long-term advantages that go far beyond bricks and mortar. 1. High Net Returns and Wealth Preservation No capital gains or income tax means investors keep almost all of what they earn—this is rare globally. means investors keep almost all of what they earn—this is rare globally. Consistent property price appreciation , especially in freehold zones, makes it ideal for long-term asset growth. , especially in freehold zones, makes it ideal for long-term asset growth. Strong rental demand in areas like Dubai Marina, JVC, Downtown, and Business Bay creates stable cash flow. 'Dubai's average gross rental yields are among the highest in the world—almost double what investors get in cities like London or Hong Kong.' (Knight Frank UAE Residential Market Report, 2024) 2. Residency Options for Investors Dubai's government ties property investment to visa opportunities, creating long-term value for families and business owners alike. AED 750,000+ investment → 2-year renewable residence visa → Covers spouse and children → 2-year renewable residence visa AED 2 million+ investment→ 10-year Golden Visa→ Includes spouse, children (no age limit), parents, and domestic staff→ Remains valid even if the investor passes away during the term→ Can be financed via approved bank loans → Must hold property for at least 2 years This makes the UAE attractive not just for investment, but also for relocation, education, and healthcare access for global families. 3. Flexible Payment and Finance Options Developers and banks have made it easier than ever for international buyers to enter the Dubai market. Off-plan properties with post-handover payment plans → Pay 20–30% upfront, rest over 3–5 years with post-handover payment plans → Pay 20–30% upfront, rest over 3–5 years Interest-free installments in some projects in some projects Mortgages for non-residents are now widely available → Loan-to-value ratios of 70–80% are common for eligible buyers This removes a major barrier for those without full upfront capital and diversifies the investor base beyond cash-rich buyers. 4. Tokenization: The Future of Property Investment Dubai is one of the first global real estate markets to embrace tokenization, which allows properties to be divided into fractional digital shares using blockchain technology. Dubai Land Department estimates AED 60 billion in tokenized property value by 2033 in tokenized property value by 2033 Makes investment accessible to smaller investors or crypto-savvy buyers Ideal for high-value assets (e.g., luxury hotels, towers) where full ownership is not feasible This is part of Dubai's broader strategy to digitize and modernize real estate, while staying ahead of global trends. Challenges in the Market: What Foreign Investors Must Watch Despite its appeal, the UAE real estate market, like any other, has areas of risk. Understanding these upfront can help investors plan better and avoid costly mistakes. 1. Market Volatility and Oversupply Risks While demand is strong, some areas face the threat of oversupply, especially in emerging communities. Developers are launching thousands of new units in JVC, Dubai South, and Al Furjan. If supply outpaces demand, rental yields can soften in the short term. Global economic slowdowns or oil price shocks can influence buyer sentiment and spending. That said, prime zones like Downtown, Marina, and Business Bay remain resilient due to limited availability and high demand. 2. Regulatory Complexity Across Emirates Rules for foreign ownership vary from one emirate to another: Dubai : Liberal with extensive freehold zones and streamlined processes : Liberal with extensive freehold zones and streamlined processes Abu Dhabi : More leasehold than freehold; limited foreign zones : More leasehold than freehold; limited foreign zones Sharjah and Northern Emirates: Some opportunities, but generally less open to full foreign ownership This means investors must: Verify which zone they're buying in they're buying in Understand ownership rights (freehold vs leasehold) Check visa eligibility based on property value and payment method 3. Liquidity and Transaction Costs Real estate is a long-term game in Dubai. Quick flipping is harder due to costs and liquidity: Dubai Land Department registration fee : 4% of the purchase price : 4% of the purchase price Agency commissions : 2% typically (negotiable) : 2% typically (negotiable) Service charges : Ongoing annual costs for maintenance, typically AED 10–25 per sq. ft. : Ongoing annual costs for maintenance, typically AED 10–25 per sq. ft. Exit costs: Legal, bank, and brokerage fees on resale Real estate also takes weeks or months to sell, especially in slower periods. Investors should plan for a 3–7 year horizon for solid gains. Strong Government Oversight and Investor Safeguards The UAE has put serious effort into building a transparent, investor-friendly ecosystem. Several institutions help ensure that both individuals and firms feel safe operating here. Dubai Land Department (DLD) Regulates all property transactions Maintains ownership registry and data portals Operates via digital tools like the Dubai REST App, which lets users track ownership, payments, and legal documents Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) Ensures developers and brokers are licensed Oversees escrow accounts for off-plan projects Protects buyers from fraud or delivery delays Escrow Account System Developers must deposit investor funds in escrow Money is only released when construction milestones are met Offers security in off-plan deals Rental Dispute Center (RDC) Handles tenancy disputes efficiently Offers legal mediation and fast-track decisions Protects both landlords and tenants Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Compliance Measures Since its removal from the FATF Grey List in 2024, the UAE has significantly tightened financial scrutiny in real estate. Current Requirements for Buyers: Must complete KYC (Know Your Customer) checks The source of funds must be declared and verified Corporate buyers must disclose Ultimate Beneficial Owners (UBOs) Virtual asset purchases (e.g., crypto) must go through licensed Virtual Asset Service Providers under Central Bank rules This gives credibility to the market and reassures international regulators that Dubai is serious about transparency and compliance. Foreign investment in the UAE's real estate sector reflects the country's progress in creating a globally trusted property market. Clear ownership laws, strong regulatory oversight, visa-linked incentives, and a fully digital transaction process have made real estate more accessible and secure for international buyers. The government's long-term urban planning and commitment to economic diversification continue to strengthen investor confidence. With high rental yields, rising property values, and supportive infrastructure already in place, now is the best time to invest in a market built for both growth and stability. Also read: DIFC Unveils Heights Tower: Sales Launch for Landmark Live-Work-Play Development Begins 16 April Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) has announced that sales for its newest residential project, Heights Tower, will officially begin on 16 April 2025. Dubai Real Estate Investment Guide 2025: Your Pathway to Lucrative Opportunities Explore Dubai's real estate market in 2025 with this expert investment guide—covering top areas, opportunities, legal tips, and high-return strategies. What's Driving Dubai's Property Surge? It's More Than Just Demand Dubai's property surge isn't just demand-driven—economic policies, innovation, and global investment are shaping its unstoppable real estate boom. Best Investment Opportunities in Dubai for Residents Discover smart investment opportunities in Dubai for working professionals & residents—secure, low-risk ways to grow your savings wisely.
Arab Times
18-05-2025
- Business
- Arab Times
PAI withdraws 22 industrial & craft plots violating rules
KUWAIT CITY, May 18: The Board of Directors of the Public Authority for Industry (PAI), chaired by Minister of Commerce and Industry Khalifa Al-Ajeel, decided to withdraw 22 industrial and craft plots during its meeting on Sunday. In a statement to Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), PAI confirmed the issuance of a decision to withdraw seven industrial plots and 15 craft plots from the beneficiaries who violated the terms and conditions for the distribution of such plots. The authority pointed out that the decision is based on the recommendation of the Permanent Committee for Industrial Violations. It revealed that the violations committed by the plot owners include closure of the plot, not operating the factory, failure to operate the factory within the specified period, lack of seriousness in implementing the industrial or craft project as there are no workers and work has been halted on the plot for some time, and some have not utilized the licensed plot. Meanwhile, Al-Ajeel granted judicial police powers to 37 male and female employees at the Capital Markets Authority (CMA) to investigate crimes committed in violation of the provisions of Law No. 7/2020 on establishing CMA and regulating securities activities, its executive regulations and their amendments. Ministerial Resolution No. 95/2025, published in the Official Gazette (Kuwait Al-Youm), stipulates the expanded duties of employees covered by the resolution to include entering the headquarters of companies operating in the securities sector, headquarters of stock exchanges or any other entity located there; and reviewing the records, books, documents, data, recordings, computer systems or any other data storage or data processing media at the headquarters of the aforementioned entities or at any other entity in their possession or under their control. Moreover, Al-Ajeel outlined the rules for delegating Ministry of Commerce and Industry employees to positions that fall under the concept of 'attached to representative missions abroad.' Ministerial Resolution No. 97/2025 stipulates the termination of the provisions of Ministerial Resolution Nos. 506/2012 and 425/2019 referred hereto; and all secondment decisions issued in implementation of their provisions shall be deemed to have expired 45 days after the date of the issuance of the resolution on Sunday.
Zawya
15-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Rabdan Academy welcomes international students from Indonesia and US as part of Student Exchange Program
Students from the United States and Indonesia participate in the current semester Ambitious plans to expand the program locally and internationally The program enriches students' knowledge and sharpens their skills in a multicultural environment Abu Dhabi – UAE, 15 April 2025: As part of its commitment to providing a world-class educational experience, Rabdan Academy continues to deliver its pioneering Student Exchange Program, an initiative aimed at promoting academic excellence, professional development, and cross-cultural understanding among students. The program strengthens academic exchange opportunities through strategic partnerships with prestigious global institutions, including Virginia Commonwealth University (USA), Universitas Pertahanan (Indonesia), and the Singapore University of Social Sciences (Singapore). Through the programme, students engage in specialised academic courses, diverse cultural activities, and collaborative research opportunities, enriching their global perspectives and enhancing their practical skills. During the current semester, Rabdan Academy is hosting six students from Virginia Commonwealth University and Universitas Pertahanan, representing the United States and Indonesia, as part of its ongoing academic exchange program. This initiative reflects the Academy's dedication to providing a multicultural educational environment that fosters academic cooperation and intercultural dialogue. Rabdan Academy is actively working to expand the Student Exchange Program to include students from universities within the UAE, reinforcing its role as a leading educational institution in the fields of safety, security, defence, emergency preparedness, and crisis management. Commenting on the programme, Samya Salem Al Saedi, Rabdan Academy Registrar, said: "Rabdan Academy's Student Exchange Program is a vital platform for enhancing students' readiness and refining their academic and cultural competencies." Al Saadi emphasised the Academy's commitment to offering global learning opportunities that enable students to engage with diverse cultures, gain valuable experiences, and prepare to succeed in an increasingly interconnected world. The Student Exchange Program empowers students to acquire advanced knowledge, broaden their cultural perspectives, and experience high-quality education in specialised fields offered by Rabdan Academy, better equipping them to meet future opportunities and challenges. About Rabdan Academy Rabdan Academy is a government-owned world-class education institution established to coordinate and enhance learning outcomes for organisations and individuals in the Safety, Security, Defence, Emergency Preparedness and Crisis Management (SSDEC) Sectors. The Academy was officially established under Law No. 7 for 2013, issued by the late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and is accredited by the UAE's Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA) of the Ministry of Education. The Academy is the world's first higher education institution specializing in the SSDEC domain to achieve a top "5-Star" rating in six key categories of the QS Stars University Rating System: Teaching, Facilities, Employability, Global Engagement, Academic Development, and Good Governance. As a unique institution, the Academy provides learning in a dual approach, combining academic and vocational education in one place, whilst recognising prior learning and experience and providing accredited and transferable credit from course to course and job to job.
