1. UAE’s Updated Personal Status Law
The UAE government has introduced a new Personal Status Law (Federal Decree-Law No. 41 of 2024), announced in October 2024, which will take effect on April 15, replacing the previous Federal Law No. 28 of 2005. This law is designed to improve family stability, streamline legal processes, and address modern social dynamics.
Key Aspects of the Law:
•Applicability: It applies by default to UAE citizens and residents, with non-Muslim citizens and certain residents having the option to follow a different legal system. Under specific conditions, it may also extend to non-residents, particularly in family disputes involving UAE-based individuals.
•Stronger penalties: Fines ranging from AED 5,000 to AED 100,000 will be imposed for violations, including unauthorized travel with a child, property-related offences involving minors, neglect, abuse, or failure to provide necessary care for parents.
Family Law Adjustments:
Marriage Regulations: The minimum legal marriage age remains 18, with court approval required for those underage or when there is an age gap of over 30 years between spouses.
Engagements: Now recognized as proposals rather than binding contracts, with specific conditions for reclaiming engagement gifts.
Child Custody: A modernized approach prioritizing the child’s best interests, adapting to contemporary family structures.
2. New Employment Regulations at Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)
The Registration Authority (RA) at ADGM has introduced Employment Regulations 2024, effective April 1, to align workplace policies with international standards and offer greater legal clarity for employers and employees.
Key Updates:
•Expanded definition of ’employee’ to accommodate remote work and flexible employment arrangements.
•Clear guidelines on rights and entitlements for part-time employees.
•Improved clarity on work permit and visa procedures, including issuance and cancellation.
•Enhanced protections against workplace discrimination and victimization.
•Penalties for non-compliance: Businesses failing to adhere to these regulations may face fines or administrative actions, though specific amounts have yet to be detailed.
With these regulations replacing the 2019 employment framework, businesses within ADGM are advised to update their internal policies to comply with the new requirements.
3. Variable Parking Fees in Dubai
Dubai’s Parkin Company PJSC will implement a Variable Parking Tariff Policy starting April 4 to regulate parking rates based on peak and off-peak hours in high-demand areas.
Revised Parking Rates:
•Off-Peak Hours (10 AM – 4 PM & 8 PM – 10 PM): Rates remain unchanged.
•Peak Hours (8 AM – 10 AM & 4 PM – 8 PM): Premium public parking spaces will cost AED 6 per hour.
•Sundays & Public Holidays: Free parking remains in place.
Additional Details:
•The peak and off-peak pricing structure will extend to all public parking areas and approximately 35% of developer-owned spaces (such as private parking zones within malls and mixed-use developments).
•Premium parking zones, often located near public transport hubs, will feature clear signage displaying updated tariffs.
4. UK Visa Fee Increases
From April 9, the UK government will increase visa application fees to ensure the financial sustainability of its migration system.
Updated Visa Costs:Standard six-month visit visa: AED 547.7 → AED 604.9
Student visa: AED 2,334 → AED 2,495.9
Skilled Worker visa (up to 3 years): AED 3,424 → AED 3,662.9
Skilled Worker visa (up to 5 years): AED 6,763.8 → AED 7,235.4
Additional Considerations:
•The UK Home Office states that these adjustments aim to reduce taxpayer contributions and ensure that the migration system covers its operational costs.
•There are no announced changes to visa processing times, but applicants should stay updated on any procedural adjustments.
5. Metro Station Name Change: Al Fardan Exchange Metro Station
Announced in March, Al Khail Metro Station has been officially renamed Al Fardan Exchange Metro Station.
Key Updates:
•New signage will be introduced at Dubai Metro stations in April to reflect the name change.
•All external and indoor directional signs across Dubai Metro stations will be updated between April and June.
•The new name will also be updated on:
•Digital smart systems
•RTA’s public transport apps
•Onboard audio announcements before and upon arrival at the station
6. Trump to Impose 10% Tariff on UAE Imports
President Donald Trump announced a 10% baseline tariff on all imports to the US, with higher rates for key trading partners, escalating his trade conflict. The new tariffs, which include 34% on China and 20% on the EU, will take effect on April 5, with higher rates for some countries starting April 9. The tariffs also target GCC nations, including 10% on the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Trump stated the tariffs were a “declaration of independence” and highlighted their role in bringing manufacturing jobs back to the US. However, economists warn that the tariffs could slow global growth, raise the risk of recession, and increase costs for US consumers. The uncertainty has shaken financial markets, with US stocks losing nearly $5 trillion in value since February.
News Source : Finance World
