Recently, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) updated and improved its maritime laws in order to strengthen the role that the maritime industry sector plays in international trade.

Dr. Hassan Elhais examines the legal framework governing international extradition between the UAE and Ireland, exploring how cross-border extradition requests are processed and the procedural complexities that arise when two jurisdictions seek to transfer individuals for prosecution or sentencing. The discussion addresses the bilateral considerations and legal standards that shape extradition outcomes.

In the Middle East we are increasingly aware of situations where local practice and the expectations of the international market, or vice versa, do not match up.

Johannes Jonas, managing partner of Cohen & Gresser's Dubai office, explains why familiarity can create a false sense of confidence and why long-term success in the Gulf depends on understanding the region's business culture as much as its legal framework. The article examines common cultural and business mistakes made by first-time entrants and provides a practical five-point readiness checklist for companies considering expansion into the Gulf.

The United Arab Emirates has officially joined the Locarno Agreement, adopting an internationally recognized classification system for industrial designs that will enhance consistency, efficiency, and harmonization with global IP protection practices. This strategic move, effective October 2026, positions the UAE as a stronger hub for innovation and creative economy while simplifying design protection for businesses operating across multiple markets.

Having to change any part in your car is something any car owner dreads, the considerable expense of replacing things such as gearboxes or cambelts does not go down lightly.

Companies will now find it easier to transfer between Dubai's free zones while employees may soon have a unified labour contract.

The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership was signed between fifteen Asia-Pacific nations to accelerate recovery of their economies that have been pillaged by the pandemic.

The economic world is often dominated and driven by a cloud of the phenomenon at times.

In an era of rapid economic and geopolitical change, companies globally and in the Middle East are increasingly adopting green and sustainable strategies. These are being integrated into broader business operations...

The Middle East has for some years been the port of first call for many UK retailers looking to internationalise their business.

The Registrar of Trade Marks in the Gaza Strip has extended the waiver of late renewal fees for trade marks whose registrations expired between 7 October 2023 and 11 August 2026. This extension provides brand owners with a critical window to maintain their intellectual property rights without incurring additional costs, though practical challenges including banking disruptions and enhanced financial scrutiny may complicate the renewal process.

The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) has strengthened the UAE-India commerce by signing a Guidance note with Nishith Desai Associates

Dubai Customs has issued an announcement that, effective 1 January 2019, all commercial and industrial companies operating under licenses issued by any of the free zones in the Emirate of Dubai

Considering the geographical location of Dubai, the Logistics industry has been on a rise since past few years.

Shark meat is considered a delicacy in certain countries around the world. However, at the same time, there are numerous species of sharks which have received the category of endangered

The media has been buzzing with speculation and predictions following the UAE Cabinet's decision to (i) allow 100% foreign ownership by global investors in the UAE mainland; and (ii) grant 10 year residence visas ...

The United Arab Emirates has lifted its longstanding restrictions on trade mark applications for alcoholic beverages, marking a significant shift in intellectual property policy. This development opens new opportunities for brand owners in the beverages and hospitality sectors to secure direct protection for their alcohol brands and products. The change aligns the UAE more closely with international classification standards and follows similar reforms recently implemented by Qatar.

At the beginning of 1987, Turkey set up various Free Zones. The First Free Trade Zone was built up in Mersin and Antalya in 1985.

At Berkley Ltd, our mission has always been to combine strong local expertise with an international outlook. With offices in Cyprus and the United Arab Emirates, including our presence in Abu Dhabi...