Protecting UAE Assets: New Will-Registration Rules for Expats

Overview With effect from 1 January 2026, amendments to the UAE Civil Transactions framework impose an urgent requirement for expatriate residents who wish to govern succession of UAE-situated assets: where a foreign resident dies in the UAE without a valid registered Will or identifiable heirs, their UAE assets may be declared heirless and transferred to […]
UAE Commercial Companies Law Amendments 2025 : Key Changes & Client Advisory

Introduction On October 01, 2025, the UAE issued Federal Decree-Law No. 20 of 2025 introducing sweeping amendments to the UAE’s onshore Commercial Companies Law (Federal Decree Law No. 32 of 2021). These reforms modernize the corporate framework, align it with international best practices, and add new tools for shareholders and businesses. Key changes include clarified […]
HLS Global Expands to Singapore

October 1, 2025 HLS Global Expands to Singapore Tokyo, Japan / Singapore – HLS Global Co., Ltd. (“HLS Global”), a leading international accounting, taxation and business advisory firm, today announced the expansion of its global presence to Singapore by establishing its new subsidiary, HLS GLOBAL SEA PTE. LTD. (“HLS SG”), in Singapore. This expansion underscores HLS […]
Secretarial Compliance in the UAE Enhanced Penalty Regime

As per the Cabinet Resolution 102/2022 (effective Nov 2022), the UAE has implemented an enhanced penalty regime for secretarial non-compliance. What were once minor lapses can now attract fixed, per-occurrence fines ranging from AED 500 to AED 10 million, with repeat violations leading to licence suspensions, director disqualifications, or even company dissolution. 🔍 Who’s Affected? Mainland entities […]
UAE Economic Substance: The Key to Controlled Foreign Corporation (CFC) Compliances in Japan

Existing or Proposed subsidiaries of Japanese Companies need to meet “Economic Substance Requirements” so that the Japanese Parent Company can demonstrate that it qualifies for an exemption from Japan’s Tax-Haven Rules. Why it Matters To avoid having any income earned via the UAE subsidiary included in its Japanese parent company, and taxed under Japan’s […]
Brief Overview for Filing of Ultimate Beneficial Owner (UBO) in the UAE

Every company in Dubai, whether mainland, free zone or offshore, is legally required to disclose its Ultimate Beneficial Owners (UBO) under Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations. While it may seem like a simple filing, the reality is more complex. Layered ownership structures, nominee shareholders, cross border arrangements and frequent regulatory updates often turn UBO compliance in […]
Commercial Agency Setup in the UAE

Overview In 2023, the UAE overhauled its decades-old agency regime. Federal Law No. 3 of 2022 (Commercial Agency Law) replaced the old 1981 code and establishes a more balanced framework for agency relationships. The new law defines “Commercial Agency” broadly – any written agreement under which a UAE-based agent sells or distributes a principal’s goods or […]
Valuation and Deal Structuring in 2025: Best Practices for Cross-Border M&A in the UAE

Key Takeaways UAE is a leading hub for cross-border M&A in 2025, attracting global investors. Accurate valuation advisory in UAE ensures fair and sustainable deals. Best practices in deal structuring include regulatory compliance, tax planning, and risk mitigation. Corporate tax, VAT, and AML regulations make advisory support more crucial than ever. HLS-Global UAE provides trusted […]
The Role of DIFC and ADGM Foundation in Asset Protection & Succession

Purpose of a Foundation A Foundation is a legal entity that combines features of a company and a trust, offering a structured and secure vehicle for asset protection, estate planning, wealth preservation, and philanthropic purposes. Unlike a trust, a foundation has its own legal personality and can hold assets in its own name. It is […]
Commercial Gaming in the UAE under the GCGRA Framework: A New Era of Regulated Gaming

Introduction The United Arab Emirates has undertaken a historic transformation from its traditional prohibition of gambling to establishing a comprehensive, regulated commercial gaming framework. This landmark shift represents one of the most significant regulatory developments in the region’s business landscape, opening new opportunities for international gaming operators while maintaining strict oversight standards. At the center […]
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