DIFC COURTS VS. DUBAI COURTS: Resolving the Jurisdictional Divide in the Recognition and Enforcement of Foreign Arbitral Awards

The Emirate of Dubai operates two legally distinct court systems: the onshore Dubai Courts, constituted under UAE federal and local law, and the Dubai International Financial Centre Courts (“DIFC Courts”), which administer a common-law framework…

Ship Arrest: The One Legal Tool That Can Stop a Vessel Overnight

In shipping, most disputes take time. Ship arrest doesn’t. It is one of the very few tools in maritime practice that can immediately disrupt operations, create pressure, and force action sometimes within hours. And that’s…

Doing Business in Uncertain Times: Key Dos and Don’ts For UAE Employers and Employees

Periods of regional uncertainty raise immediate, practical questions for businesses. The starting point, however, remains unchanged: UAE Labour Law continues to apply in full, regardless of external circumstances For employers, the real issue is not…

What Happens to Your Assets in the UAE When You Die? Most Expats Don’t Know and It’s Costly

If you live or invest in the UAE and don't have a valid Will, your family could face frozen accounts, lengthy court proceedings, and inheritance rules you never intended. Here's what every expat needs to…

U.S. Sanctions and Shipping: Guidance for Port & Customs Authorities

In recent years, the US has focused increasingly on “intermediaries” or “facilitators” of sanctions evasion, such as shipping companies, logistics service providers, freight forwarders and transport intermediaries, as well as insurance companies. Over the past…

Dual Licensing in the UAE: Key Tax Implications

The UAE, known for its wide range of business setup and growth opportunities, offers a dual licensing regime that plays an important role for businesses seeking to expand across multiple jurisdictions within the country. Dual…

Standing Strong with Dubai and the UAE: Operations Remain Active

In light of recent developments being reported across the region, we would like to briefly confirm that Dubai and the United Arab Emirates remain fully operational, with business activities continuing as normal. All UAE courts,…

The DIFC Variable Capital Company (VCC): A Transformative New Company in the DIFC Framework

On 9 February 2026, the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) enacted the Variable Capital Company Regulations 2026 (Regulations), introducing a new corporate structure within the DIFC legal framework.   What is a Variable Capital Company…

Impact of a Strait of Hormuz Closure on Shipping & Insurance

Strategic significance and the current disruption As of 28 February–3 March 2026, reporting indicates a sharp escalation in Gulf hostilities and a de facto interruption of safe commercial transits through the Strait of Hormuz, driven…