Investment framework and opportunities in the United Arab Emirates
Procedures Relative to Foreign Investment
- Freedom of Establishment
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The UAE issued Decree Law No. 19 on Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in September 2018, which grants authorised foreign investment companies the same treatment as domestic companies, to the extent permitted by current legislation. Nevertheless, in practice, increased foreign ownership is limited to a few sectors and linked to costly requirements. Therefore, the cases in which it will be possible and feasible for a company to increase its foreign shareholdings beyond 49% remain rare.
- Acquisition of Holdings
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The Council of Ministers approved on 3 March 2020 a positive list of economic sectors eligible for 100% foreign ownership.
- Obligation to Declare
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There is no special obligation to declare.
- Competent Organisation For the Declaration
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World Association of Investment Promotion Agencies
- Requests For Specific Authorisations
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Foreign ownership is restricted in companies that perform certain regulated activities. In the sectors of banking, insurance, health, maritime transport, education, media, and telecommunications, specific authorisations from the ministries in charge are required.
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Latest Update: February 2025