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Comply

Your compliance manager

Govern

Governance and board compliance

Onboard

Client onboarding (KYC/CDD)

Shield

Clients' regulatory compliance

Ledger

Clients' FTA compliance

Scout

Planning your UAE setup

Verify

Sanctions, PEP and adverse-media screening

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Regulatory updates

Every UAE regulatory change, as it happens.

New rules, circulars, consultations and notices from UAE regulators, each summarised with who is affected and what to do. Collected by Arakan Lexara from the regulators' own websites.

Arakan Lexara Weekly

The week's changes, what they mean and the deadlines ahead. Every Monday, free.

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All regulatorsDubai Financial Services Authority (66)Federal Tax Authority (46)Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (27)Financial Services Regulatory Authority — ADGM (21)Ministry of Economy — AML/CFT & Commercial Supervision (17)Central Bank of the UAE (16)DIFC Registrar of Companies (10)ADGM Registration Authority (7)Real Estate Regulatory Authority — Dubai (1)Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (1)
  1. Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority14 Oct 2026Rulebook AmendmentHigh impact

    D. Category 1 VA Issuance

    This section of the Virtual Asset Issuance Rulebook has been amended to specify the license requirements for Category 1 virtual asset issuance. Firms must adhere to these updated requirements to maintain compliance.

  2. Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority14 Oct 2026Rulebook AmendmentHigh impact

    Virtual Asset Issuance Rulebook

    The Virtual Asset Issuance Rulebook has been updated to provide new guidelines and requirements for the issuance of virtual assets. This amendment is crucial for firms involved in virtual asset issuance as it outlines the necessary compliance measures.

  3. Financial Services Regulatory Authority — ADGM14 Oct 2026Consultation PaperMedium impactConsultation open

    Consultation Paper No. 7 of 2026 – Proposal to Introduce a Regulatory Framework for Business Centres

Page 1 of 8Older →

Updates are found automatically on regulators' websites and summarised by AI. Check the official source before relying on any item.

Past weekly briefings

The ADGM Registration Authority has issued a consultation paper seeking feedback on proposed amendments to introduce a regulatory framework for business centres. This includes changes to the Commercial Licensing Regulations and associated rules, aiming to enhance the regulatory environment for business centres operating within ADGM.

  • Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority12 Oct 2026Rulebook AmendmentHigh impact

    B. Whitepaper Requirements

    The whitepaper requirements for virtual asset issuance have been updated, detailing the necessary disclosures and information that must be included. This is vital for firms preparing to issue virtual assets to ensure transparency and compliance.

  • Financial Services Regulatory Authority — ADGM9 Oct 2026Consultation PaperMedium impactConsultation open

    Consultation Paper No. 6 of 2026 – Proposed Revisions to the Fees and General Rulebooks

    This consultation paper proposes revisions to the Fees and General Rulebooks, aiming to update and refine the regulatory framework. Stakeholders are invited to provide feedback on the proposed changes.

  • Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority6 Oct 2026CircularMedium impact

    Circular: regarding Reserve Assets Audit Report

    VARA has issued guidance following a review of Proof of Reserve Assets reports submitted in 2025. This guidance clarifies the minimum regulatory expectations for independent audits of Reserve Assets, promoting a consistent and detailed approach to assessing and verifying client Virtual Asset safeguarding arrangements.

  • Financial Services Regulatory Authority — ADGM6 Oct 2026Consultation PaperMedium impactConsultation open

    Consultation Paper No. 5 of 2026 – DeFi Risk Management Guidance

    This consultation paper seeks feedback on proposed guidance for managing risks associated with Decentralized Finance (DeFi) activities. It aims to establish a framework for risk assessment and mitigation in DeFi operations within the ADGM.

  • Federal Tax Authority2 Oct 2026Public ClarificationMedium impact

    Application of the Reverse Charge Mechanism on Metal Scrap trading among UAE VAT Registrants- VATP047

    This clarification addresses the application of the reverse charge mechanism on metal scrap trading among VAT registrants in the UAE. It is important for businesses involved in such trading to comply with VAT regulations.

  • Federal Tax Authority2 Oct 2026Public ClarificationMedium impact

    Free Zones and Designated Zones for Tax Purposes - TAXP010

    This public clarification provides guidance on the tax treatment of free zones and designated zones within the UAE, clarifying their status for VAT purposes. It is crucial for businesses operating in these zones to understand their tax obligations.

  • Dubai Financial Services Authority1 Oct 2026Enforcement NoticeHigh impact

    The DFSA fines Vault Wealth Limited USD 109,200 for carrying on unauthorised financial services in Dubai International Financial Centre

    The DFSA imposed a fine of USD 109,200 on Vault Wealth Limited for providing financial services in or from DIFC without DFSA authorisation. The firm was found to have breached the Financial Services Prohibition by advising on financial products and arranging deals in investments without the necessary licence. The fine was reduced by 30% as VWL agreed to settle the matter.

  • Financial Services Regulatory Authority — ADGM1 Oct 2026Consultation PaperMedium impactConsultation open

    Consultation Paper No. 4 of 2026 – Proposed Strata Regulations 2026

    The FSRA has released a consultation paper on the proposed Strata Regulations 2026. This paper seeks feedback from stakeholders on the new regulatory framework for strata management, which aims to enhance governance and operational standards in the sector.

  • Dubai Financial Services Authority1 Oct 2026Rulebook AmendmentHigh impact

    Prudential – Investment, Insurance Intermediation and Banking Business Module (PIB) Rule-making Instrument (No. 443) 2026

    The DFSA has revised the Prudential – Investment, Insurance Intermediation and Banking Business Module (PIB) to strengthen the prudential requirements for financial institutions. These amendments are designed to enhance the financial stability and resilience of firms operating in the DIFC.

  • Dubai Financial Services Authority1 Oct 2026Rulebook AmendmentHigh impact

    Conduct of Business Module (COB) Rule-making Instrument (No. 444) 2026

    Amendments to the Conduct of Business Module (COB) have been made to enhance consumer protection and ensure fair treatment of clients. These changes are part of the DFSA's ongoing efforts to maintain high standards of business conduct within the DIFC.

  • Dubai Financial Services Authority1 Oct 2026Rulebook AmendmentHigh impact

    Islamic Finance Rules (IFR) Rule-making Instrument (No. 445) 2026

    The DFSA has introduced amendments to the Islamic Finance Rules (IFR) to enhance the regulatory framework governing Islamic financial activities. These changes aim to align with international standards and improve the operational clarity for firms engaged in Islamic finance.

  • Dubai Financial Services Authority1 Oct 2026Rulebook AmendmentMedium impact

    Glossary Module (GLO) Rule-making Instrument (No. 446) 2026

    The DFSA has amended the Glossary Module (GLO) as part of its rule-making instruments for 2026. This amendment is intended to update and clarify definitions within the regulatory framework, ensuring consistency and clarity for regulated entities.

  • Real Estate Regulatory Authority — Dubai28 Sept 2026Guide UpdateMedium impact

    Dubai Real Estate Valuation Guide

    The updated Dubai Real Estate Valuation Guide provides comprehensive guidelines for valuing real estate properties in Dubai. It is crucial for real estate professionals to adhere to these guidelines to ensure accurate property valuations.

  • Financial Services Regulatory Authority — ADGM25 Sept 2026GuidanceLow impact

    Annual Accounts Guidance (September 2026)

    The FSRA has issued updated guidance on the preparation and submission of annual accounts. This guidance aims to clarify reporting requirements and ensure compliance with the latest financial reporting standards.

  • Dubai Financial Services Authority23 Sept 2026News AnnouncementLow impact

    DFSA Chief Executive Mark Steward appointed Vice Chair of the International Organization of Securities Commissions’ Growth and Emerging Markets Committee

    Mark Steward, DFSA Chief Executive, has been appointed Vice Chair of the IOSCO’s Growth and Emerging Markets Committee. This appointment highlights DFSA's active role in international regulatory cooperation and its commitment to enhancing global financial market standards.

  • Financial Services Regulatory Authority — ADGM23 Sept 2026GuidanceMedium impact

    Guidance – Regulatory Framework for Private Financing Platforms and Multilateral Trading Facilities dealing with Private Capital Markets

    This guidance outlines the regulatory framework for private financing platforms and multilateral trading facilities in the private capital markets. It provides clarity on the operational and compliance requirements for entities operating in this space.

  • Dubai Multi Commodities Centre23 Sept 2026Regulations AmendmentHigh impact

    DMCC Establishes Foundations Regulations to Expand Private Wealth and Structuring Offering for Members

    DMCC has established new Foundations Regulations aimed at expanding its private wealth and structuring offerings for its members. This move is significant as it provides enhanced legal frameworks for wealth management and structuring, which can attract more high-net-worth individuals and family offices to the DMCC.

  • Dubai Financial Services Authority23 Sept 2026Regulatory NoticeMedium impact

    Notice of Approval of the Ministry of Finance of the People’s Republic of China as an Exempt Offeror Under Rule A5.1.1 of the Markets Rules

    The DFSA has approved the Ministry of Finance of the People’s Republic of China as an Exempt Offeror under Rule A5.1.1 of the Markets Rules. This designation exempts the Ministry from the requirement to issue a Prospectus and from certain reporting obligations under the Markets Law 2012.

  • Dubai Financial Services Authority23 Sept 2026Regulatory NoticeMedium impact

    Notice of Approval of New Development Bank as an Exempt Offeror Under Rule A5.1.1 of the Markets Rules

    The DFSA has approved the New Development Bank as an Exempt Offeror under Rule A5.1.1 of the Markets Rules. This approval exempts the New Development Bank from the obligation to issue a Prospectus and from certain reporting requirements under the Markets Law 2012.

  • Dubai Financial Services Authority15 Sept 2026Consultation PaperMedium impactConsultation open

    Consultation Paper No. 173 - Proposals to Enhance the DFSA’s Collective Investment Fund Framework

    This paper proposes enhancements to the DFSA's framework for collective investment funds. The aim is to improve regulatory oversight and investor protection while fostering growth in the sector. Stakeholders are invited to provide their input on the proposed changes.

  • Financial Services Regulatory Authority — ADGM14 Sept 2026Consultation PaperMedium impactConsultation open

    Consultation Paper No. 3 of 2026 – Proposed Undeveloped Commercial Land Regulations 2026

    The ADGM Registration Authority has issued a consultation paper to invite public feedback on proposed regulations for undeveloped commercial land. This aims to establish a regulatory framework for managing undeveloped commercial properties within ADGM.

  • Dubai Financial Services Authority10 Sept 2026News AnnouncementMedium impact

    DFSA, Nasdaq Dubai, HKMA, and HKEX establish Strategic Working Group to deepen capital markets cooperation

    A Strategic Working Group has been established by DFSA, Nasdaq Dubai, HKMA, and HKEX to enhance cooperation in capital markets. This initiative aims to foster stronger ties and facilitate the development of capital markets across the involved jurisdictions.

  • Federal Tax Authority10 Sept 2026Regulations AmendmentHigh impact

    Executive Regulation of Federal Decree Law No 8 of 2017 and its amendments

    The executive regulation of Federal Decree Law No 8 of 2017 has been amended to reflect changes in VAT regulations. These amendments are crucial for ensuring compliance with the latest VAT requirements.

  • Federal Tax Authority4 Sept 2026Public ClarificationMedium impact

    Amendments to the VAT Federal Decree-Law No. 8 of 2017 – Federal Decree-Law No. 16 of 2024 and Federal Decree-Law No. 16 of 2025

    This public clarification outlines the amendments made to the VAT Federal Decree-Law No. 8 of 2017, as updated by Federal Decree-Law No. 16 of 2024 and Federal Decree-Law No. 16 of 2025. These changes are crucial for businesses to understand their VAT obligations and ensure compliance with the updated legal framework.

  • Dubai Financial Services Authority4 Sept 2026Regulatory NoticeMedium impact

    Modification Notice to ASB Capital Limited

    The DFSA has issued a modification notice to ASB Capital Limited, altering the application of certain rules related to Money Market Funds. This modification allows the Fund Manager to invest a higher percentage of the fund's net asset value in deposits with a single bank, provided certain credit rating conditions are met. This change is significant for fund managers as it provides more flexibility in investment strategies.

  • Federal Tax Authority4 Sept 2026Public ClarificationHigh impact

    VATP046 – Amendments to the VAT Law under Federal Decree-Law No. 16 of 2024 and Federal Decree-Law No. 16 of 2025

    Consolidated clarification explaining the combined effect of the 2024 and 2025 VAT Law amendments: the expanded Fixed Establishment definition (foreign staff regularly working at UAE client premises), the interaction between electronic invoicing and Tax Invoice validity, removal of mandatory self-invoicing for reverse-charge imports from 1 January 2026, the five-year VAT refund claim deadline, and the new input-tax-denial rule for evasion-linked supply chains.

  • Central Bank of the UAE2 Sept 2026Enforcement NoticeMedium impact

    CBUAE Revokes the Licence of 'Omda Exchange' and Imposes a Financial Sanction of AED 10 Million

    CBUAE revoked the exchange-house licence of Omda Exchange and imposed a AED 10 million financial sanction, continuing a pattern of significant AML/CFT enforcement action against exchange houses in the review period. This is a directly CBUAE-sourced press release and one of the most recent regulatory actions in the review window.