Author: Hassan Elhais

To streamline the process of recruitment and protect the rights of the workers, the UAE has issued Federal Decree Law No. 9 of 2022 Concerning Domestic Workers (Law). Domestic Worker Recruitment Offices Federal Decree Law No. 9 of 2022 under Article 4 states that only licensed recruitment offices can recruit domestic workers in the UAE, and the recruitment must be carried out as per the prescribed laws and regulations in force in the UAE. The Article further states that it will be illegal to employ workers below the age of 18, and the workers must not be employed in activities…

Consumer Protection and Anti-Counterfeit Laws in the UAE In the UAE, Federal Law No. 15 of 2020 (Consumer Protection Law) sets out rules to safeguard consumers. It ensures that goods and services meet quality standards, regulates their prices, and protects the health and safety of buyers. In addition, Federal Decree-Law No. 42 of 2023 (Commercial Fraud Law) addresses the issue of counterfeit goods and all forms of commercial fraud. Right to Accurate Information Under Article 4 of the Consumer Protection Law, consumers in the UAE are entitled to receive correct and clear information about the goods or services they purchase.…

National Anti‑Narcotics Authority (Federal Decree‑Law No. 2 of 2025) Summary: The UAE government has established a federal authority named the National Anti‑Narcotics Authority (the “Authority”) to combat drug trafficking and related offences. Establishment and Headquarters The Authority was created under Federal Decree‑Law No. 2 of 2025 and is headquartered in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. It replaces the General Department of Anti‑Narcotics of the Ministry of Interior in all financial and legal rights and obligations. Leadership and Composition The Authority will be led by a President of the rank of minister, who will oversee and approve the Authority’s actions. A…

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) boasts a dynamic and rapidly growing real estate market, attracting global investors—especially in Dubai. With consistent growth and lucrative opportunities, many expatriates and international buyers are investing in off-plan properties in Dubai to secure competitive deals and long-term value. What Are Off-Plan Properties in Dubai? Off-plan properties are real estate projects purchased directly from developers before or during the construction phase. Since they are sold at early development stages, buyers often benefit from discounted property prices and flexible payment plans, making them a popular investment option in the UAE property market. Risks of Buying Off-Plan…

Introduction The Extradition Treaty between the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Ireland represents a landmark in bilateral legal cooperation. Signed to enhance justice and accountability across borders, the Treaty establishes a structured process for surrendering individuals accused or convicted of crimes. By setting out clear obligations, defining extraditable offences, and outlining grounds for refusal, the agreement ensures that justice is served while upholding fundamental rights and protections. Coming into force on 18 May 2025, this Treaty underscores the commitment of both nations to strengthen the global fight against crime through mutual trust and legal collaboration. Extradition Treaty between UAE and…

Family Law in the UAE Abstract Family law in the UAE is governed by three main legislations: Federal Decree Law No. 41 of 2024 for Muslims, Federal Decree Law No. 41 of 2022 for non-Muslims outside Abu Dhabi, and Abu Dhabi Law No. 14 of 2021 for non-Muslims within Abu Dhabi. Among the most important aspects regulated under these laws are gifts during engagement, betrothal rights, dowry obligations, and the wife’s entitlement to financial security. The Federal Personal Status Law outlines provisions for the return of gifts if engagements are terminated, dowry limits, postponement of dowry payments, and the wife’s…

Understanding Drug Trafficking and UAE Drug Laws What is Drug Trafficking? Drug trafficking refers to the international trade of drugs. It involves production, manufacture, packaging, transportation, and regional distribution of drugs, sometimes carried out by organised criminal groups. The United Arab Emirates considers drug trafficking a serious crime as it threatens public safety and morality. The country has issued strict legislations against drug trafficking, and offenses can lead to lengthy imprisonment (ranging from years to life), deportation, and/or substantial fines. What is the UAE Drug Law? The Federal Law Decree No. 30 of 2021 on Combating Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances…

In the UAE, custody of children is governed by the UAE family law, consisting of Federal Decree Law No. 41 of 2024 on the issuance of the Personal Status Law which governs Muslims in the UAE (Federal Personal Status Law), Federal Decree Law No. 41 of 2022 on the Civil Personal Status, governing non-Muslims in the UAE, except in the emirate of Abu Dhabi (Federal Civil Personal Status) and Abu Dhabi Law No. 14 of 2021 concerning the Personal Status for Non-Muslim Foreigners in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi (Abu Dhabi Civil Personal Status Law). Custody of children under Muslim…

The UAE has established a comprehensive system of laws and registries for the draft and execution of Wills.

The UAE traffic laws are governed by Federal Decree Law No. 14 of 2024 on Traffic Regulation (“Law”). This Law lays down extensive provisions regarding the usage of public roads, the proper conduct of drivers of vehicles, requirements when applying for a driver’s license, and other traffic related requirements.