Most M&A deals in the UAE unravel after the ink dries—not because of valuation mistakes, but due to overlooked compliance and integration hurdles. Licensing mismatches, hidden Ultimate Beneficial Ownership (UBO) complexities, and anti-money laundering (AML) gaps can freeze accounts or void approvals. Regulatory layers such as UBO disclosures and AML checks often go unnoticed—leading to compliance breakdowns or license issues post-acquisition.
Before you buy, risk assessment must drive every step of your transaction advisory services. You need clarity on how the target company’s licenses align with your business model, whether existing staff visas remain valid post-acquisition, and if the entity complies with the Ministry of Economy’s UBO guidelines.
That’s why smart buyers seeking M&A deal advisory rely on HLS-Global UAE—we build a risk-first strategy so you avoid surprises, secure your investment, and ensure your new venture is regulator- and bank-ready from day one.
The UAE’s regulatory landscape for mergers and acquisitions has evolved dramatically. Gone are the days when financial valuation alone sealed a deal. Today, buyers must navigate complex compliance layers—especially around Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Ultimate Beneficial Ownership (UBO) disclosures. The Ministry of Economy has intensified scrutiny on UBO filings, making incomplete or inaccurate declarations a direct trigger for fines, frozen licenses, or even forced business closures.
Many buyers underestimate these compliance layers during M&A negotiations. Overlooking regulatory obligations can lead to unexpected compliance issues, stalled operations, or penalties, while ignoring AML red flags can derail banking relationships post-acquisition. This is why transaction advisory services should include a regulatory audit, not just a financial one. At HLS-Global UAE, our M&A deal advisory team aligns deal structures with current laws, ensuring your acquisition stands up to regulatory review—and preserves operational continuity long after the ink dries.
Hidden liabilities often determine whether your M&A deal becomes an asset or a liability. In the UAE, due diligence must go far beyond reviewing balance sheets. You need a deep dive into operational licenses—are they valid, transferable, and compliant with UAE mainland or free zone rules? Tax exposure is another overlooked trap: Unresolved VAT filings, UBO mismatches, or compliance errors can surface after you close. Staff visas and labor contracts must match the acquired entity’s stated headcount and salary obligations—misalignment can trigger Ministry of Human Resources audits. Hidden legal disputes with suppliers, landlords, or regulators can escalate quickly post-acquisition.
At HLS-Global UAE, we use our M&A deal advisory experience to lead comprehensive compliance-focused due diligence. Our transaction advisory services identify risks that could freeze accounts or void licenses, ensuring your deal survives beyond signing and aligns with evolving UAE regulations. Talk to us before you buy.
Most M&A buyers underestimate how a UAE target’s location—mainland or free zone—shapes the deal’s success. In mainland acquisitions, licenses are linked to physical premises and may not transfer without reapplication, triggering delays or rejections if not planned. In free zones, licenses can be even more restrictive: some require shareholders to requalify with the authority, adding hidden costs and time.
Bank relationships also vary—many mainland accounts rely on local sponsorship documents, which dissolve in ownership changes. Free zone accounts may close automatically if the zone authority isn’t updated before the acquisition. Contract enforceability shifts too; agreements drafted under mainland jurisdiction might not carry over to free zone entities, exposing buyers to disputes they can’t win.
At HLS-Global UAE, our transaction advisory services and M&A deal advisory experts map these risks before you sign, ensuring your deal structure aligns with licensing, banking, and legal realities, not assumptions.
Most M&A failures in the UAE don’t happen during negotiations—they happen right after the deal closes. Buyers assume inherited staff, supplier contracts, and daily operations will transfer smoothly. But unclear employment terms, expired vendor agreements, or licensing mismatches can cause immediate disruptions. You risk losing key talent if employment benefits, visas, or titles aren’t aligned with the new owner’s structure. Vendors may suspend services if contract reassignments aren’t negotiated upfront, stalling operations from day one.
Early integration planning is essential. At HLS-Global UAE, we embed HR assessments, contract reviews, and licensing verifications into our M&A deal advisory process. This ensures operational continuity, preserves employee morale, and maintains supplier trust. With our transaction advisory services, you can confidently acquire businesses knowing your integration strategy will protect revenue, secure assets, and avoid operational chaos that turns a promising deal into a costly liability. Ready to secure your acquisition’s success?
Before you commit to an acquisition, HLS-Global UAE steps in to uncover what numbers alone can’t show. Our M&A deal advisory team stress-tests your target’s licensing, corporate structure, and UBO records to ensure the deal won’t collapse under regulatory scrutiny. We’ve helped buyers avoid last-minute license rejections by revealing outdated trade activities, uncovering hidden tax liabilities that would have triggered fines, and clarifying ownership chains to satisfy AML and UBO compliance requirements.
Our transaction advisory services go beyond standard financial due diligence—we coordinate with banks to confirm post-acquisition account viability and align the acquisition structure with the UAE’s compliance frameworks. This approach makes your deal regulator-ready and bank-compliant from day one, preserving your investment and credibility.
For a transaction that withstands the UAE’s complex rules, talk to HLS-Global UAE before you sign. Let our experts secure your M&A success with precision and foresight.
Most M&A failures in the UAE aren’t due to poor valuations—they happen because buyers overlook regulatory red flags, hidden tax exposures, or licensing complications unique to the region. In today’s environment, Regulators enforce Ultimate Beneficial Ownership rules strictly, along with broader compliance expectations in M&A transactions. Missed details can freeze bank accounts or invalidate licenses post-acquisition. At HLS-Global UAE, we don’t just crunch numbers; we dig into your target’s compliance posture, banking relationships, and operational realities so you avoid nasty surprises. Our M&A deal advisory team helps you map real risks before you commit capital, while our transaction advisory services ensure smooth license transitions, risk analysis, and regulatory coordination with relevant UAE authorities. Don’t let assumptions sink your investment.
Talk to HLS-Global UAE today—buy with clarity, not blind spots. Get the guidance that protects your deal, your reputation, and your future growth in the UAE.
What It IsA long-term, self-sponsored residence visa valid for five years allows skilled employees, freelancers and self-employed individuals to live, work and sponsor family—without an employer or national guarantor.
Who Qualifies & Key RequirementsFreelancers & Self-Employed
Skilled Employees
(Note: The applicable occupational levels are as follows- Level 1: Legislators, managers, and business executives; Level 2: Professionals in scientific, technical and human fields; Level 3: Technicians in scientific, technical and humanitarian fields)
Key AdvantagesUnderstanding compliance requirements is essential – learn more about Regulatory Compliance Services.
Process & TimelineSelf-application digitally via MOHRE/GDRFA e-portal service; processing generally completes within 4–6 weeks.
What It IsThe traditional employment visa for private-sector, government and free-zone employees—valid for up to two years and fully sponsored by the hiring entity.
Who Qualifies & Key RequirementsProcess & TimelineWhat It IsA long-term residency visa (10 years) designed to attract high-value investors, entrepreneurs, specialists, scientists, creatives, outstanding students, humanitarian pioneers and frontline heroes.
Key AdvantagesKey Eligibility Categories & RequirementsInvestors in Public Funds
Real-Estate Investors
Entrepreneurs
Outstanding Specialized Talents
Outstanding Students
Humanitarian Pioneers & Frontline Heroes
Process & TimelineWe analyze your profile—employment, investment, talent—to recommend optimal visa type and jurisdiction.
From document attestation and application drafting to regulatory follow-up, we handle every detail.
Leveraging our direct channels with MOHRE, GDRFA, ICP, and free zones for priority processing.
Automated calendar reminders, audit preparations, and proactive renewals to keep you visa-ready.
The UAE’s recent removal from the EU’s high-risk countries list further strengthens its appeal for international residents and investors.
Ready to secure your UAE residency with zero hassle?
Contact HLS-Global UAE at info@hls-global.ae or visit www.hls-global.ae for a complimentary eligibility assessment.
Navigate the Emirates confidently—your new chapter starts here.
Disclaimer: All views expressed in this article are solely for informational purposes and should not be construed as legal advice. This information is for reference only and is bound to change in case of any amendments or changes to applicable laws. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content of this article, and do not make any warranties about the completeness, reliability and accuracy of the information expressed in this article.
Over the past year, the United Arab Emirates has taken unprecedented steps to regulate commercial gaming (casinos, lotteries, sports betting, etc.), aiming to unlock tourism and economic growth. In 2023, the federal government created the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) to oversee all licensed gambling under strict, globally-aligned standards. Any company or individual looking to offer casino-style gaming, online betting, lottery or related activities must now obtain a GCGRA license. Our regulatory compliance services help navigate these complex licensing requirements. At HLS-Global UAE, we have been closely monitoring these developments and stand ready to guide clients through the licensing and compliance requirements in this evolving sector.
For decades, most forms of gambling were prohibited in the UAE aside from limited charitable raffles and small promotional lottery draws. In late 2023, the UAE announced a shift: it established the GCGRA and introduced a comprehensive licensing regime. Under the new rules, all commercial gaming requires licensing by the federal authority. Operating without a license is illegal and carries severe penalties (heavy fines, imprisonment, and business closure). Proper business setup in the UAE is essential before pursuing gaming licenses. The GCGRA’s mandate now covers lotteries, internet gaming, sports wagering and land-based facilities (casinos, slot halls, etc.).
The UAE’s new gaming regime is already in motion. In July 2024, the GCGRA awarded the first national lottery license to The Game LLC (an Abu Dhabi-based company). Existing raffle operators (Emirates Draw and Mahzooz) paused their draws at the GCGRA’s request during the licensing process. In October 2024, Wynn Resorts announced it had received the UAE’s first casino license for its planned $3.9 billion resort on Ras Al Khaimah’s Al Marjan Island. These landmark developments have set the stage for further expansion of licensed gaming in the UAE.
The Wynn Al Marjan resort (RAK) is slated to open mid-decade as the UAE’s first luxury casino destination. Abu Dhabi and Dubai have not publicly announced specific casino projects yet, but both emirates are actively designing entertainment zones and regulations. Online gaming and sports betting platforms (including international operators) are also expected to seek UAE licenses as the framework matures. Overall, the outlook for commercial gaming in the UAE is cautiously optimistic. The regulatory framework provides clarity for investors while balancing cultural and social concerns. As additional licenses are issued and projects are built, the UAE could emerge as a major regional gaming hub.
The UAE’s GCGRA regulates all commercial gaming activities (lotteries, casinos, online betting, sports wagering, etc.) at the federal level. Any company or individual engaging in such activities must obtain the appropriate GCGRA license before operating. Our UAE market entry and restructuring support guides international operators through market entry requirements. The licenses are broadly divided into entity licenses and individual licenses, each with detailed documentary and suitability requirements as below:
Each license type has specific criteria, but broadly any person or company whose activities fall under the definition of commercial gaming must obtain the appropriate GCGRA license before operating. Under GCGRA regulations, “commercial gaming” refers to any activity in which money (or its equivalent) is wagered on games of chance or skill—covering lotteries, casinos, online betting, sports/event wagering, and related gaming platforms.
The GCGRA’s licensing process is structured and thorough. The key steps are as below:
Throughout this process, the GCGRA conducts thorough suitability checks (integrity, financial soundness, criminal background, etc.) on all owners, investors, and key personnel. While the GCGRA aims for an expeditious review, it has not published a fixed timeline. In practice, applicants should allow several months from initial intake to final approval, depending on application completeness and regulatory workload.
Licensed gaming entities face continuous obligations to maintain their license as enumerated below:
Navigating the new UAE gaming licensing regime requires careful planning and expert advice. Our firm has experience in UAE regulatory processes and global gaming standards. We assist clients by: identifying the correct license categories; preparing and reviewing all application materials (intake forms, business plans, financial models, RG policies, etc.); managing the GCGRA portal submissions; and coordinating required audits and government interactions. We also ensure ongoing compliance post-licensing (AML programs, RG implementation, reporting). In this still-nascent sector, professional guidance is strongly advised. By leveraging our multidisciplinary expertise, we help you streamline the licensing process and confidently operate within the UAE’s gaming framework.
Partnering with HLS-Global UAE means tapping into a boutique team that knows both the local landscape and international gaming norms. We handle the heavy lifting so you can focus on building your gaming business with confidence.
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Disclaimer: All views expressed in this article are solely for informational purposes and should not be construed as legal advice. This information is for reference only and is bound to change in case of any amendments or changes to applicable laws. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content of this article, and do not make any warranties about the completeness, reliability, and accuracy of the information expressed in this article.
Dubai has rapidly evolved into a global hub for businesses, attracting consultants from around the world to set up operations. The city offers a thriving economic landscape, strategic geographic positioning, and investor-friendly policies. Professionals planning to launch a consultancy in Dubai must navigate a complex legal framework and setup process that directly impacts licensing, ownership, and long-term operations. This guide outlines the key steps, legal requirements, and the role of business setup consultants in Dubai in ensuring a smooth market entry.
The first step in setting up a consultancy business in Dubai involves selecting the right legal structure. The primary options include Mainland (licensed by Dubai Economy), Free Zone, or Offshore entities. Your choice of structure affects everything—from how you sign contracts and open bank accounts to where you can operate and who can own shares. Mainland companies offer flexibility to operate across the UAE, while Free Zones provide 100% foreign ownership and tax benefits. HLS-Global UAE assists clients in evaluating these structures to align with their specific business goals.
Obtaining the appropriate license is a crucial requirement. For consultancy businesses, a professional license is mandatory. The process typically involves:
Free Zones like DMCC or DIFC offer streamlined processes, while Mainland licenses require engagement with the Department of Economy & Tourism (DET). HLS-Global UAE ensures seamless license procurement by managing documentation and compliance requirements.
Recent reforms in the UAE now allow 100% foreign ownership for most professional activities, including consultancy services. However, some sectors may still require a Local Service Agent (LSA). Free Zones always offer 100% ownership without the need for a local partner. HLS-Global UAE helps investors assess the best ownership model and provides trusted LSA services when required.
Consultancies must comply with VAT registration, Ultimate Beneficial Ownership (UBO) reporting, and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations. HLS-Global UAE supports clients in understanding and meeting these regulatory requirements by coordinating with trusted local partners where needed. HLS-Global UAE supports clients with regulatory advisory, helping you understand key compliance areas like VAT, UBO reporting, and AML, while coordinating with licensed partners where specialized tax filings are required.
HLS-Global UAE stands out as a reliable partner for consultancy business setup in Dubai. With deep experience supporting Japanese businesses and multinationals, the firm offers end-to-end services including entity formation, regulatory advisory, compliance outsourcing, and transaction support. With a client-first approach, HLS-Global UAE ensures your consultancy setup is strategically structured, regulator-ready, and built to scale.
Informative Table:
Aspect | Mainland Setup (DED) | Free Zone Setup |
Ownership | Up to 100% Foreign Ownership | 100% Foreign Ownership |
Market Access | Full UAE Market Access | Limited to Free Zone & Exports |
Licensing Authority | Dubai Economy & Tourism (DET) | Free Zone Authority |
Office Requirement | Physical Office Required | Flexi-desk or Virtual Office |
Setting up a consultancy in Dubai offers immense opportunities but requires careful navigation through legal, licensing, and compliance landscapes. With expert guidance from business setup consultants in Dubai like HLS-Global UAE, entrepreneurs can achieve a successful market entry and long-term business growth. Reach out to HLS-Global UAE for bespoke advice tailored to your consultancy ambitions in the UAE.
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Disclaimer: All views expressed in this article are solely for informational purposes and should not be construed as legal advice. This information is for reference only and is bound to change in case of any amendments or changes to applicable laws. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content of this article, and do not make any warranties about the completeness, reliability and accuracy of the information expressed in this article.
On July 09, 2025, the European Union officially removed the United Arab Emirates from its “high-risk third countries” AML/CFT list—mirroring the FATF’s grey-list delisting in February 2024. This marks a watershed moment in the UAE’s financial-compliance journey, reflecting material reforms and unlocking tangible benefits for trade, investment, and international partnerships. Businesses can now leverage improved market conditions while ensuring their AML services align with international standards.
Under Directive (EU) 2015/849 (4th and 5th AML Directives), the European Commission maintains a dynamic list of high-risk jurisdictions whose shortcomings trigger regulatory compliance services for EDD by EU financial institutions. Countries are reviewed annually based on FATF evaluations and bilateral assessments. While listing imposes automatic EDD, delisting requires demonstrable alignment with global standards—spanning legal frameworks, supervisory capacity, and enforcement outcomes. Organizations operating in both EU and UAE jurisdictions require sophisticated AML services to navigate these evolving regulatory landscapes effectively.
Initial Listing (2022): Concerns over limited transparency, beneficial-ownership opacity, and uneven enforcement across sectors, including real estate and precious-metals trading.
EU Delisting Rationale: The European Parliament’s decision followed a positive Commission recommendation, underscoring the UAE’s effective implementation of AML/CFT reforms and sustained enforcement track record.
Reputational Upside: Global investors and correspondent banks view the UAE as a mature, reliable financial hub, bolstering its status as a gateway linking Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.
Delisting is contingent on sustained compliance. The EU will conduct periodic reviews, and UAE authorities have signaled ongoing enhancements—especially in Regulatory Compliance Services and beneficial-ownership verification—to guard against emerging threats and preserve confidence.
Position your business to capitalize on the UAE’s enhanced financial standing—partner with HLS-Global UAE for end-to-end guidance.
info@hls-global.ae | +971562318810
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Disclaimer: All views expressed in this article are solely for informational purposes and should not be construed as legal advice. This information is for reference only and is bound to change in case of any amendments or changes to applicable laws. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content of this article, and do not make any warranties about the completeness, reliability and accuracy of the information expressed in this article.
The UAE has recently overhauled its anti-money laundering (AML) framework to align with global standards. At the center is Federal Decree-Law No. 20 of 2018 (as amended by Decree-Law No. 26/2021), which requires businesses to prevent money laundering and terrorism financing. These rules apply broadly – from banks and exchanges to many non-financial sectors – to ensure transparency in financial transactions. In fact, the UAE’s intensified AML efforts were recognized by FATF: the country was removed from the FATF “grey list” in February 2024 after implementing key reforms. This means regulators are now particularly vigilant, and companies should be prepared to meet strict AML standards.
Federal AML Law: The cornerstone is Federal Decree-Law No. 20/2018 (and its 2021 amendment), which empowers regulators and the UAE Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) to oversee compliance and reporting. Cabinet resolutions and Central Bank guidelines flesh out the details (e.g. customer due diligence rules, beneficial-ownership disclosures, UN sanctions screening). In practice, this means every covered business must have a risk-based AML policy in place.
Who Must Comply: AML obligations apply to a wide range of entities. On the financial side, this includes banks, insurance companies, money exchanges, fintechs and other licensed financial institutions. Importantly, the law also covers Designated Non-Financial Businesses and Professions (DNFBPs) – for example, real estate developers/agents (involved in buying/selling property), dealers in precious metals or stones (cash transactions ≥ AED 55,000), lawyers/notaries/accountants handling certain client transactions (e.g. real estate deals, asset management, company formation), and trust or company-service providers (incorporation, director or address services, trustees, nominee shareholders). The law broadly covers any company engaged in those activities, even if not formally licensed as such – “substance over form” means your business must follow AML rules if it performs DNFBP services. In short, if your business deals in large sums or high-risk assets, expect AML rules to apply.
Businesses under the UAE AML rules must implement and maintain effective controls. Key requirements include:
Each of the above is an ongoing duty – not a one-time setup. Regulators expect continuous diligence, for instance updating risk assessments when markets or customers change, or when laws are updated. Non-compliance can lead to heavy fines, license suspension and reputational harm.
To meet these obligations, businesses typically draft a written AML policy/manual. Key components of an AML Policy must include the following:
In essence, the policy is your “playbook” for compliance. It should be practical and company-specific (size and industry), not just boilerplate text. While the above elements are standard, each business tailors the details to its operations and risk profile.
UAE authorities enforce AML rules stringently and the fines could be enormously hefty as below:
Staying inspection-ready and demonstrating proactive compliance are your best defenses.
Navigating AML rules can be complex. This is where HLS-Global UAE comes to the rescue of our clients to assist them in navigating through every step involved in AML compliance:
Partnering with us ensures your business is protected from AML risks. A strong compliance program helps you avoid fines and build trust with banks, investors and regulators. Contact us to review your AML compliance and develop a tailored strategy. Your peace of mind is our priority.
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Disclaimer: All views expressed in this article are solely for informational purposes and should not be construed as legal advice. This information is for reference only and is bound to change in case of any amendments or changes to applicable laws. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content of this article, and do not make any warranties about the completeness, reliability and accuracy of the information expressed in this article.
Recently, various reports have been circulating across media and social platforms suggesting the launch of a new Golden Visa scheme offering lifetime UAE residency for a one-time fee of AED 100,000 (approximately INR 23 lakh). According to these claims, the visa could allegedly be obtained via private nomination through designated third-party agencies, without meeting standard investment or talent-based requirements.
However, following public speculation and rising enquiries, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) — the official UAE body overseeing visa and residency matters — has formally denied the existence of such a programme.
This newsletter outlines the nature of the misinformation, clarifies the UAE government’s official position, and provides practical guidance for clients in navigating verified Golden Visa pathways.
The alleged scheme, reported by various non-government news sources and widely shared online, made the following representations:
These claims triggered high interest among investors, professionals, and migration consultants — particularly in India and Bangladesh. For accurate information about legitimate UAE residence visa requirements, applicants should consult official sources.
In response to the media coverage, the UAE government — through the ICP — issued an official statement on July 08, 2025, confirming the following:
The ICP further cautioned applicants against falling prey to fraudulent promises or unauthorized “express visa” services offered by intermediaries. Professional regulatory compliance guidance ensures adherence to official procedures.
The official Golden Visa regime, introduced in 2019 and enhanced in 2022, remains active and accessible via the following recognized categories:
All applications must be filed through official government channels, often with the support of a local sponsor, proof of income, or investment credentials.
As a licensed business advisory and management consultancy firm, HLS-Global UAE assists clients with verified and compliant Golden Visa pathways, including:
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Disclaimer: All views expressed in this article are solely for informational purposes and should not be construed as legal advice. This information is for reference only and is bound to change in case of any amendments or changes to applicable laws. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content of this article, and we do not make any warranties about the completeness, reliability, and accuracy of the information expressed in this article.
Back in November 2022, the UAE dramatically expanded its fines for corporate secretarial lapses under Cabinet Resolution 102/2022, amending Federal Decree-Law 32/2021 (the Commercial Companies Law). What was once mere procedural oversights now carry substantial, per-occurrence fines—up to six figures in dirhams. Both mainland and free-zone companies must now treat minute-taking, register-keeping, and timely filings as mission-critical.
With regulators empowered to suspend licenses, block director appointments, and even dissolve companies for repeat breaches, businesses can no longer afford lapses in basic secretarial duties. This newsletter walks you through the updated obligations, the new fines framework, and how HLS-Global UAE ensures your compliance, penalty-free.
Compliance Item | Requirements | Penalty |
Corporate Governance Rules | Ensure compliance with the statutory corporate governance standards | Up to AED 10 million – Public JSC |
Change in Trade Name | Ensure compliance with the decision to change the Company’s trade name | AED 500 per month (capped at AED 5,000 yearly)- L.L.C. AED 1,000 per month (capped at AED 10,000 yearly)- Private JSC AED 1,000 per month (capped at AED 10,000 yearly)- Public JSC |
MoA/Article Amendments | File any change (capital, activity, shareholding) within the statutory deadline | AED 1,000/month (capped AED 10,000/year)- L.L.C. AED 1,500/month (capped AED 15,000/year)- Private JSC AED 2,000/month (capped AED 20,000/year)- Public JSC |
Convene the General Assembly when losses ≥50% of capital | Within 4 months of financial year-end; keep minutes on file | AED 50,000- L.L.C. AED 100,000- Private JSC AED 200,000- Public JSC |
Share Certificates | Ensure compliance with the rules on issuing, endorsing, or safeguarding physical share certificates. | AED 200,000- Public JSC |
Auditor Appointment | Ensure the appointment of an auditor duly licensed by the MoE/Authority. | AED 50,000- Private JSC AED 200,000- Public JSC |
Inspection Cooperation | Provide access to premises, records, and systems on request | AED 5,000- L.L.C. AED 10,000- Private JSC AED 200,000- Public JSC |
Financial Year Accounts | Prepare and present the year-end accounts for board/shareholder approval | AED 50,000- Private JSC AED 100,000- Public JSC |
Accounting & Records | Keep financial books & records at the registered office | AED 15,000- L.L.C. AED 20,000- Private JSC AED 100,000- Public JSC |
Access to Books/Minutes | Provide the partners/shareholders access to the minutes of the General Assembly, books, etc. | AED 5,000 – L.L.C. AED 10,000- Private JSC AED 100,000- Public JSC |
Board Meeting Invitation to Director | Chairman/Director to send invitation to the Director(s)/Manager(s) for Board Meeting | AED 3,000- L.L.C. AED 8,000- Private JSC AED 100,000- Public JSC |
Registration Process | Ensure the undertaking registration process is completed within 10 (ten) working days from the issuance of the certificate of incorporation | AED 20,000- Private JSC AED 100,000- Public JSC |
Board Formation | Formation of the Board Quorum as per the statutory requirements | AED 10,000- Private JSC AED 200,000- Public JSC |
Board Vacancy & Nomination | Comply with the prescribed procedures in case of vacancy/nomination to the Board | AED 10,000- Private JSC AED 200,000- Public JSC |
Annual General Assembly | Within 4 months of financial year-end; keep minutes on file | AED 5,000 (up to AED 10,000 if regulator-ordered)- L.L.C. AED 30,000 (up to AED 50,000 if regulator-ordered)- Private JSC AED 200,000 (up to AED 200,000 if regulator- ordered)- Private JSC |
Unauthorized Share Transfers | Process or record transfers outside legal procedures | AED 20,000- L.L.C. AED 50,000- Private JSC AED 200,000- Public JSC |
Statutory Registers (Shareholders/Directors) | Maintain and update continuously | AED 100,000- Public JSC |
Record & updates the Ultimate Beneficial Owners upon any change | AED 20,000 (2nd offence) AED 40,000 (3rd offence) | |
Board Meetings | At least 4 per year; written notice & signed minutes | AED 3,000- L.L.C. AED 8,000- Private JSC AED 100,000- Public JSC |
Note: Repeat offenses trigger double or triple penalties and may lead to license suspension or director disqualification.
To stay ahead of penalties, companies should adopt a disciplined secretarial workflow:
HLS Global UAE’s corporate secretarial practice offers end-to-end support to keep you penalty-free:
► Compliance Health-Check: A rapid 360° audit of your registers, minutes, filings, and policies to spot gaps.
► Document Preparation: Draft and file board resolutions, notices, MoA amendments, and UBO disclosures on your behalf.
► Regulator Liaison: We handle all dealings with MoE, free-zone authorities, and UAE financial intelligence units to ensure timely approvals.
► Ongoing Monitoring & Alerts: Automated calendar reminders for meetings, renewals, and filing deadlines so nothing slips through.
► Training & Governance: Workshops for your directors and company secretaries on best practices and new regulatory trends.
“Our proactive approach transforms secretarial compliance from a reactive chore into a seamless, audit-ready process—eliminating fines and freeing you to focus on growth.”
Partner with HLS–Global UAE to safeguard your business against the UAE’s enhanced secretarial penalties.
📧 info@hls-global.ae | 🌐 www.hls-global.ae
Disclaimer: All views expressed in this article are solely for informational purposes and should not be construed as legal advice. This information is for reference only and is bound to change in case of any amendments or changes to applicable laws. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content of this article and do not make any warranties about the completeness, reliability, or accuracy of the information expressed in this article.
As the United Arab Emirates cements its position as a global crypto hub, Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) eyeing expansion into this dynamic region must understand the regulatory landscape. With multiple regulatory bodies across federal and free zone jurisdictions, getting licensed in the UAE requires a tailored, jurisdiction-specific strategy. At HLS Global UAE, we specialize in simplifying this process end-to-end.
The UAE’s approach to virtual asset regulation is multi-tiered and jurisdiction-specific.
Regulator | Jurisdiction | Role |
SCA – Securities and Commodities Authority | Onshore UAE (Mainland) | Federal oversight of VASPs and digital asset issuance |
VARA – Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority | Dubai (excluding DIFC) | World’s first dedicated VA regulator |
DFSA – Dubai Financial Services Authority | DIFC (Dubai International Financial Centre) | Independent regulator under common law |
FSRA – Financial Services Regulatory Authority | ADGM (Abu Dhabi Global Market) | Robust, mature virtual asset framework |
RAKEZ – Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone | RAKDAO (Ras Al Khaimah Digital Assets Oasis) | Exclusively dedicated to virtual assets |
Across jurisdictions, the licensing requirements typically include:
3. DFSA (DIFC)
At HLS-Global UAE, we specialize in end-to-end regulatory licensing and compliance advisory for VASPs. Here’s how we deliver value:
Jurisdiction Mapping: We evaluate your model and identify the most suitable UAE zone and regulator (SCA, VARA, DIFC, ADGM, or RKDAO).
End-to-End Licensing Support: From documentation to regulatory liaison, submission tracking, and handling pre-consultation rounds.
License Documentation: From AML frameworks, business plans, to regulatory compliance – we build compliant and regulator-ready documents.
Post-Licensing Compliance: Ongoing support for transaction monitoring and regulatory updates.
The UAE offers a fertile regulatory environment for compliant, growth-focused VASPs. But the complexity lies in picking the right zone and aligning with evolving compliance obligations. With deep legal and regulatory expertise, HLS-Global UAE ensures your crypto venture launches seamlessly – with speed, accuracy, and trust.
Disclaimer: All views expressed in this article are solely for informational purposes and should not be construed as legal advice. This information is for reference only and is bound to change in case of any amendments or changes to applicable laws. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content of this article, and we do not make any warranties about the completeness, reliability, or accuracy of the information expressed in this article.
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