UAE Competition Law Update – New Merger Control Thresholds Announced

Introduction

The UAE has introduced significant changes to its merger control framework with the issuance of Cabinet Resolution No. (3) of 2025, which establishes the long-awaited thresholds for merger filings. Effective 31 March 2025, the new rules introduce a turnoverbased test, requiring businesses to obtain regulatory approval for qualifying transactions.

These changes stem from Federal Decree-Law No. 36 of 2023 (the “2023 Competition Law”), which overhauled the UAE's competition law framework. While the law came into effect on 29 December 2023, companies and legal practitioners have been awaiting clarity on the financial thresholds that determine whether a transaction is subject to review by the UAE Ministry of Economy (“MoE”). The newly published resolution now sets those criteria, though further Implementing Regulations under the 2023 Competition Law are expected to provide additional guidance.