The business and legal environment in the UAE and Saudi Arabia is changing fast. In the last month, several important updates were announced that affect visas, taxes, housing, and corporate rules. Whether you are a business, an investor, or an employee relocating, understanding these changes is important. Here’s a simple breakdown of what’s new and why it matters.

UAE Updates

1. New Visit Visa Categories

The UAE has introduced four new visas for people coming to the country for work or short-term visits in specific sectors, including:

• Artificial Intelligence Specialist Visa – Granted to AI experts for single or multiple entries; requires a sponsor or host specialised in technology.
• Entertainment Visa – Issued to foreigners visiting temporarily for entertainment-related purposes.
• Event Visa – Allows entry to attend festivals, exhibitions, conferences or similar events; requires a letter from a public or private sector host detailing the event and duration.
• Cruise Ship & Leisure Boat Visa – Multiple-entry visa for tourists arriving via cruise ships or leisure boats; requires a licensed host and a detailed travel itinerary.

2. Humanitarian Residence Permit

The UAE now allows certain people who are in difficult situations (for example, from countries in conflict or facing emergencies) to get a humanitarian residence permit.

3. Residence Permits for Widows and Divorcees

Widows and divorced women in the UAE can now apply for a residence visa for one year without needing a new sponsor.

Key points:

• Must apply within six months of the divorce or spouse’s death.
• The permit can cover children as well.
• Applicants must show they have a place to live and enough money to support themselves.

4. Corporate Tax Clarifications for Free Zones

The UAE’s Federal Tax Authority has clarified that companies in Free Zones can benefit from a 0% corporate tax rate on qualifying income, provided they meet specific conditions. This includes companies with taxable profits exceeding AED 375,000, which are subject to a standard 9% corporate tax rate.

5. DMCC Wealth Hub Launch

Dubai has launched a new Wealth Hub for family offices, investors, and asset managers. It offers:

• Special licenses to run family offices or investment companies.
• Access to legal, tax, and financial experts.
• Simplified support for managing investments.

Saudi Arabia Updates

1. Rent Freeze in Riyadh

Saudi Arabia has announced that, in response to sharply rising real estate costs in Riyadh, rent hikes for both residential and commercial properties in the city will be frozen for five years. The freeze applies within the urban area and is based on the last registered rent for vacant properties; landlords who violate the rule may face penalties up to a year’s rent. The decision is part of efforts to curb inflationary pressures amid the kingdom’s broader “Vision 2030” economic transformation, which has driven demand (and thus prices) in the capital.

2. New Investment Law Regulations

Saudi Arabia has introduced the Implementing Regulations for its Investment Law to enhance the Kingdom’s investment climate in line with Vision 2030. Key reforms include the removal of the MISA License requirement for foreign investors, the recognition of natural persons as foreign investors, and the publication of a comprehensive guide detailing rules, procedures, penalties and incentives. The regulations also strengthen investor protections, ensuring equal treatment, protection against expropriation and freedom to transfer funds. Overall, these measures aim to streamline procedures, promote fairness and position Saudi Arabia as a competitive investment destination.

3. Commercial Registration and Trade Names Reform

Saudi Arabia updated rules for business registration and trade names:

• All branches must be properly registered.
• Trade names can now be in English or include numbers.
• Trade names can be treated as assets that can be transferred or sold.

Why These Updates Matter for You

• For visas and relocation: More flexible options in the UAE, especially for widows, divorcees and humanitarian cases.
• For businesses: Clearer corporate tax rules and investment registration make planning and compliance easier.
• For housing: Riyadh rent freeze provides predictable costs for employee accommodation.
• For investors: DMCC Wealth Hub and Saudi investment reforms create new opportunities to operate and grow in the region.

Stay Ahead with EER Middle East

These changes may seem complex, but with the right guidance, they can also create opportunities. At EER Middle East, we help businesses and individuals understand and act on these updates, whether it’s corporate set up, visa applications or relocation support.

Contact us today to see how these changes could affect your business or relocation plans and make the most of the opportunities in the UAE and Saudi Arabia.