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The Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) continues to demonstrate a robust approach to regulation and supervision across the financial services sector in the UAE. Over the past twelve months, CBUAE enforcement actions have appeared in the headlines more frequently, sending a strong message to the market and emphasising the importance of compliance and consequences of non-compliance. Read the full article to learn more:

At a recent panel hosted by Grant Thornton UAE, “The 3 C’s of successful AML program remediation”, I had the privilege to moderate and explore with fellow panellists how LFIs can rise to the challenge with strategic intent and operational precision. The discussion brought together regulatory veterans, banking executives, and remediation experts to explore what truly drives success in AML compliance program remediation. The consensus? It’s not just about fixing what’s broken. It’s about building something better—with competence, clarity, and collaboration as the foundational elements. Read the full article to learn more:

This second installment in our three-part series examines the crucial impact of effective complaints handling on Licensed Financial Institutions (LFIs). We aim to provide valuable insights into conduct risk management and how LFIs can strengthen their control frameworks to meet the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE)’s Consumer Protection Regulation and Standards. GT UAE offers expertise in navigating the evolving regulatory landscape and the complexities of maintaining ethical standards while addressing consumer protection and market conduct risks.

The UAE Ministry of Finance (MoF) recently issued guidance on Mutual Agreement Procedure (MAP) to inform taxpayers about its purpose, the circumstances under which it can be applied, the required documentation for submitting a MAP request, and the procedural steps involved.

Grant Thornton UAE and Avalara hosted an insightful webinar on the evolving e-invoicing landscape and how businesses can prepare for the UAE’s upcoming mandate. Find out more by watching the recording available below:

In our May 2025 edition of GT’s regional monthly Tax Newsletter, we provide the latest Tax news updates affecting International Tax, Corporate Tax, Transfer Pricing, and Indirect Taxes in the UAE and across the Middle East region.

This second installment in our three-part series examines the crucial impact of effective complaints handling on Licensed Financial Institutions (LFIs). We aim to provide valuable insights into conduct risk management and how LFIs can strengthen their control frameworks to meet the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE)’s Consumer Protection Regulation and Standards. GT UAE offers expertise in navigating the evolving regulatory landscape and the complexities of maintaining ethical standards while addressing consumer protection and market conduct risks.

The Ministry of Finance has announced significant updates to the existing Cabinet Decision in relation to Qualifying Investment Funds and Qualifying Limited Partnerships, with the release of Cabinet Decision No. 34 of 2025 which has replaced Cabinet Decision No. 81 of 2023.

In our April 2025 edition of GT’s regional monthly Tax Newsletter, we provide the latest Tax news updates affecting International Tax, Corporate Tax, Transfer Pricing, and Indirect Taxes in the UAE and across the Middle East region.

The transfer pricing provisions in the UAE Corporate tax law impose an obligation on UAE taxpayers to determine the pricing of related party transactions in accordance with the Arms’ Length Principle (‘ALP’). Failure to comply with the ALP will warrant Transfer Pricing (‘TP’) adjustments.

The UAE’s financial sector is evolving with a focus on consumer protection, market conduct, and ethical practices, driven by innovation and sustainability. Key advancements include the rise of digital banking, fostering a cashless society and greater convenience. Retail lending has increased, boosting profitability, while fintech solutions enhance financial inclusion. CBUAE Consumer Protection Regulations & Standards emphasize integrating conduct risk management in financial institutions to ensure fairness, transparency, and accountability. Further, with the launch of the CBUAE’s Ombudsman “Sanadak” highlights the importance of consumer protection, market conduct and the importance of effective complaints handling. Institutions that neglect conduct risk may face regulatory and reputational issues, while those adopting strong market conduct frameworks can build resilience, consumer trust, and competitiveness. Read the full article to learn more.

Over the past six years, Grant Thornton UAE has tracked the progress of women in leadership across mid-market companies, multinational corporations, and the public sector. ‘Women in Business 2025’ highlights notable advances in female representation at senior levels, while also identifying the structural, cultural, and regulatory shifts driving change.

In our March 2025 edition of GT’s regional monthly Tax Newsletter, we provide the latest Tax news updates affecting International Tax, Corporate Tax, Transfer Pricing, and Indirect Taxes in the UAE and across the Middle East region.

The UAE Federal Tax Authority (FTA) has issued Public Clarification VATP040, which provides further guidance regarding specific amendments introduced by Cabinet Decision No. 100 of 2024 to the UAE VAT Executive Regulations.​ This alert does not encompass all amendments; rather, it focuses on the key clarifications issued by the FTA that present new interpretations or significant updates beyond prior knowledge. Read the article to learn more:

Understanding the Central Bank of UAE's Fitness and Propriety Regulation and Standards The Regulation and Standards align with international standard setters and global best practices, reflecting the UAE’s commitment to maintaining and growing a globally competitive financial sector. By adhering to these standards, financial institutions in the UAE can enhance their reputation and credibility on the international stage.

The GCC region is undergoing a major digital transformation in tax administration, with e-invoicing systems leading the way and the UAE is at the forefront of this change. Recently, the Ministry of Finance (MoF) released a Public Consultation paper on e-invoicing, with Grant Thornton actively participating to provide valuable feedback.