The U.A.E Federal Supreme Court introduced a new system to pay penalties

 The UAE Federal Supreme Court has introduced a new system to pay penalties. The system, which was launched on August 1, 2023, allows individuals and businesses to pay penalties online through the court's website.

The new system is designed to make it easier and more convenient for people to pay their penalties. It also aims to reduce the number of people who default on their penalties, which can lead to further legal action.

To pay a penalty through the new system, individuals and businesses will need to create an account on the court's website. Once they have created an account, they can log in and view a list of their outstanding penalties. They can then select the penalty that they want to pay and enter their payment details.

Payments can be made using a credit card, debit card, or e-Dirham. Once the payment has been processed, the penalty will be marked as paid and the individual or business will receive a confirmation email.

The new system is a welcome development for individuals and businesses in the UAE. It makes it easier and more convenient to pay penalties, and it helps to reduce the number of people who default on their penalties.

Here are the steps on how to pay a penalty through the UAE Federal Supreme Court's online system:

• Go to the court's website and click on the "Pay Penalties" tab.
• Create an account or log in to your existing account.
• Select the penalty that you want to pay.
• Enter your payment details.
• Select your payment method.
• Review your payment details and click on "Pay".

You will receive a confirmation email once your payment has been processed.

The new system is available to individuals and businesses in all seven emirates of the UAE. It is a secure and reliable system that makes it easy to pay penalties online.

Introduction of Common Law Could Transform Free Zones in the U.A.E?

 The Dubai government is exploring the introduction of common law in free zones in the UAE. This would mean that businesses operating in these free zones would be subject to the common law legal system, rather than the civil law system that is currently in place.

 There are several potential benefits to this move. Common law is seen as a more transparent and predictable legal system, which could make it more attractive to foreign investors. It could also help to reduce the cost of doing business in the UAE, as businesses would not need to hire lawyers to understand the civil law system.

 However, there are also some potential challenges to the introduction of common law in free zones. One challenge is that it would require the UAE to make significant changes to its legal system. This could be a complex and time-consuming process.

 Another challenge is that it is not clear how the introduction of common law would affect the current legal framework in the UAE. For example, it is not clear how common law would interact with the UAE's commercial laws and regulations.

 Overall, the introduction of common law in free zones in the UAE is a complex issue with both potential benefits and challenges. It is too early to say whether this move will be made, but it is an issue that is being actively considered by the Dubai government.

 Here are some of the specific benefits that have been cited for the introduction of common law in free zones in the UAE:

 Increased predictability and certainty for businesses: Common law is based on the principle of precedent, which means that decisions made by courts in the past are binding on courts in the future. This provides businesses with a greater degree of certainty about the outcome of legal disputes.

Reduced legal costs: Businesses operating in common law jurisdictions typically do not need to hire lawyers to understand the law. This can save businesses a significant amount of money, as legal fees can be high in the UAE.

Enhanced attractiveness to foreign investors: Common law is seen as a more transparent and efficient legal system than civil law. This could make the UAE more attractive to foreign investors, who may be more familiar with common law.

However, there are also some potential challenges to the introduction of common law in free zones in the UAE:

 Complexity and time-consuming nature of the reform: Introducing common law would require the UAE to make significant changes to its legal system. This could be a complex and time-consuming process.

Uncertainty about how common law would interact with existing UAE laws: It is not clear how common law would interact with the UAE's commercial laws and regulations. This could create uncertainty for businesses and make it difficult to enforce contracts.

Potential for conflict with Islamic law: Common law is based on the principle of equality before the law, which could conflict with Islamic law in some areas. This could create challenges for businesses that operate in both common law and Islamic law jurisdictions.

Overall, the introduction of common law in free zones in the UAE is a complex issue with both potential benefits and challenges. It is too early to say whether this move will be made, but it is an issue that is being actively considered by the Dubai government.

 As of now, there are no free zones in the UAE that have confirmed that they will introduce common law. However, the Dubai government has said that it is exploring the possibility of introducing common law in some of its free zones.

 The two free zones that have been mentioned as potential candidates for the introduction of common law are the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM). Both of these free zones are already based on common law principles, so the introduction of common law would be a natural progression.

 The DIFC is a financial free zone located in Dubai. It is one of the most popular free zones in the UAE, and it is home to a number of international financial institutions. The ADGM is a financial free zone located in Abu Dhabi. It is a newer free zone, but it has already attracted a number of international financial institutions.

 If the Dubai government decides to introduce common law in some of its free zones, it is likely that the DIFC and the ADGM will be the first to adopt the new legal system. These free zones are already well-established and they have a strong track record of attracting foreign investment.

 It is important to note that the introduction of common law in free zones in the UAE is still in the early stages of discussion. It is not clear when or if the Dubai government will make a decision on this issue. However, the potential benefits of introducing common law are significant, and it is likely that the Dubai government will continue to explore this option.

U.A.E Announced Penalties for The New Corporate Tax Rules from First of August

 The UAE Ministry of Finance has announced penalties for violations of the new corporate tax rules.

The penalties are as follows:

·         Failure to file a tax return: A penalty of AED 5,000 for the first offense, AED 10,000 for the second offense, and AED 20,000 for the third and subsequent offenses.

·         Late filing of a tax return: A penalty of AED 100 per day for each day that the return is late, up to a maximum of AED 50,000.

·         Failure to pay tax: A penalty of 10% of the unpaid tax, plus interest at a rate of 12% per annum.

·         Falsification of documents: A penalty of AED 50,000, plus imprisonment for a term of up to five years.

The penalties will be effective from August 1, 2023. Businesses in the UAE should be aware of these penalties and take steps to ensure that they are compliant with the new corporate tax rules.

The UAE introduced a new corporate tax law in December 2022, which will be enforced on June 1, 2023. The law sets a corporate tax rate of 9% on taxable profits of more than AED 375,000 (approximately US$100,000).

Here are some of the key features of the new corporate tax law:

A flat tax rate of 9% on taxable profits of more than AED 375,000.

A zero-tax rate on taxable profits of up to AED 375,000.

A territorial tax system, meaning that only profits arising in the UAE will be taxed.

Several exemptions and deductions, including for research and development, intellectual property, and foreign dividends.

A withholding tax of 0% on certain types of UAE-sourced income paid to non-residents.

Here are some tips for businesses to avoid corporate tax penalties:

Make sure that you are aware of the new corporate tax rules and regulations.

File your tax returns on time and accurately.

Pay your taxes on time.

Keep good records of your business transactions.

Get professional advice from a tax advisor if you are unsure about anything.

By following these tips, businesses can help to avoid corporate tax penalties and stay compliant with the law.

 

The U.A.E Labor Law: Procedure to file a labour Case in the U.A.E

 Here are the steps on how to file a labour case in the UAE:

Check the eligibility criteria. Not all labour disputes can be filed in court. 

The eligibility criteria for filing a labour case in the UAE are as follows:

The employee must be a UAE national or a holder of a valid work permit.

The dispute must arise out of the employment relationship between the employee and the employer.

The dispute must be one that is covered by the Labour Law of the UAE.

The employee must have exhausted all internal remedies, such as mediation through the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).

The employee must file the case within one year of the date of the alleged violation.

The following are some of the matters that can be the subject of a labour lawsuit in the UAE:

1. Unfair termination of employment
2. Non-payment of wages
3. Overtime compensation
4. End-of-service benefits
5. Discrimination
6. Harassment
7. Health and safety violations

If you believe that you have a valid claim against your employer, you should consult with an experienced labour lawyer to discuss your options.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind about the eligibility criteria for filing a labour case in the UAE:

The Labour Law of the UAE is constantly being updated, so it is important to check with a lawyer to make sure that your claim is still eligible to be filed.

The eligibility criteria may vary depending on the specific emirate in which you are working.

If you are not a UAE national, you may have additional requirements that you need to meet in order to file a labour case.

The Labour Law of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) sets out a list of specific matters that can be the subject of a labour lawsuit.

Gather the required documents. The required documents will vary depending on the specific nature of the dispute. However, some common documents that may be required include:

A copy of your employment contract

Proof of your salary

Any other relevant documents that support your claim

File the complaint with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). MOHRE is the government agency responsible for overseeing labour relations in the UAE. They will review your complaint and determine whether it is eligible to be filed in court.

If your complaint is accepted, MOHRE will attempt to mediate the dispute between you and your employer. If mediation is successful, the dispute will be resolved without the need for a court case.

If mediation is unsuccessful, you can file your case with the Labour Court. The Labour Court is the specialized court in the UAE that deals with labour disputes.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind when filing a labour case in the UAE:

You must file your case within one year of the date of the alleged violation.

The Labour Court will not hear your case if you have already filed a complaint with MOHRE and the mediation process has not been completed.

You will need to pay a court fee to file your case.

The Labour Court proceedings are conducted in Arabic.

Key regulations for settling individual labour disputes

Legislation for the settlement of individual labor disputes

The UAE’s laws guarantee the rights of both: the employer and the employee, especially in the event of a labour dispute between them. Both parties have the option of filing a labor complaint with Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) through a few easy steps. The complaints will then be examined and settled amicably or referred to the judiciary, if an amicable settlement is not possible.

Laws regulating labour complaints in the UAE

The following laws provide for labour complaints in the UAE

Federal Decree Law No. 33 of 2021 on the Regulation of Labour Relations in the Private Sector

Cabinet Resolution No. 1 of 2022 on the Implementation of Federal Decree Law No. 33 of 2021 Regarding the Regulation of Labour Relations and

Ministerial Resolution No. 47 of 2022 on the Settlement of Labor Disputes and Complaints Procedures.

I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.

Different Types of Visas you can apply legally in the U.A.E

 The United Arab Emirates (UAE) offers a variety of visas to meet the needs of different individuals and groups. Here are some of the most common types of visas in the UAE:

Tourist visa: This visa allows you to stay in the UAE for up to 30 days. You can apply for a tourist visa online or at a UAE embassy or consulate in your home country.

Business visa: This visa allows you to enter the UAE for business purposes. You will need to provide a letter from your employer or sponsor, as well as proof of your financial arrangements.

Work visa: This visa allows you to work in the UAE. You will need to have a job offer from a UAE-based company, and your employer will need to sponsor your visa.

Student visa: This visa allows you to study in the UAE. You will need to have been accepted to a UAE university or school, and your sponsor will need to provide proof of your financial arrangements.

Retirement visa: This visa allows you to retire in the UAE. You will need to be at least 55 years old, and you will need to have a certain amount of financial assets.

Golden visa: This visa is a long-term residency visa that is granted to individuals who invest a certain amount of money in the UAE. The amount of investment required varies depending on the type of visa.

In addition to these common types of visas, the UAE also offers visas for specific purposes, such as medical treatment, domestic work, and religious pilgrimage.

The specific requirements for each type of visa vary, so it is important to check with the UAE government or your sponsor for more information.

Tourist Visa:

Eligibility: To be eligible for a tourist visa, you must:

• Be a citizen of a country that is eligible for a visa on arrival or a visa-free entry to the UAE.
• Have a valid passport that is at least six months old.
• Have a return or onward ticket.
• Have a valid health insurance policy that covers you for the duration of your stay in the UAE.

Application process: You can apply for a tourist visa online or at a UAE embassy or consulate in your home country. The application process typically takes a few days to complete.

Visa fees: The visa fees for tourist visas vary depending on the type of visa and your nationality.

Validity: The validity of a tourist visa depends on the type of visa you have. Single-entry visas are valid for 30 days, multiple-entry visas for 30 days or 90 days.

Extension: You can extend your tourist visa for a maximum of 90 days. To extend your visa, you must apply for an extension at a UAE immigration office.

Business Visa: Here are some details about the business visa in UAE:

 

Types of business visas: There are two types of business visas in the UAE:

Sponsored business visa: This visa is for individuals who are sponsored by a UAE-based company or organization.

Self-sponsored business visa: This visa is for individuals who are self-employed or who own their own business in the UAE.

Eligibility: To be eligible for a business visa, you must:

• Be a citizen of a country that is eligible for a visa on arrival or a visa-free entry to the UAE.
• Have a valid passport that is at least six months old.
• Have a letter of invitation from your sponsor or a company registration certificate if you are self-sponsored.
• Have a valid health insurance policy that covers you for the duration of your stay in the UAE.

Application process: You can apply for a business visa online or at a UAE embassy or consulate in your home country. The application process typically takes a few days to complete.

Visa fees: The visa fees for business visas vary depending on the type of visa and your nationality.

Validity: The validity of a business visa depends on the type of visa you have. Sponsored business visas are valid for 6 months, self-sponsored business visas are valid for 1 year.

Extension: You can extend your business visa for a maximum of 1 year. To extend your visa, you must apply for an extension at a UAE immigration office.

Here are some of the benefits of having a business visa in the UAE:

• Allows you to enter and exit the UAE multiple times during the validity of your visa.
• Allows you to stay in the UAE for up to 6 months (sponsored) or 1 year (self-sponsored).
• Allows you to work in the UAE if you are sponsored by a company.
• Allows you to sponsor your dependents to live and work in the UAE.

Work Visa: Eligibility: To be eligible for a work visa, you must:

Be a citizen of a country that is eligible to work in the UAE.

• Have a valid passport that is at least six months old.
• Have a job offer from a UAE-based company.
• Have a medical fitness certificate.
• Have a police clearance certificate.

Application process: The application process for a work visa in the UAE typically takes 4-6 weeks to complete. The process involves the following steps:

Your employer will submit an application for a work permit to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE).

Once the work permit is approved, your employer will submit an application for a visa on your behalf.

• You will need to provide the following documents to your employer:
• Your passport and visa application form.
• Your academic and professional qualifications.
• Your medical fitness certificate.
• Your police clearance certificate.

Your employer will submit your application to the UAE embassy or consulate in your home country.

Once your visa is approved, you will be able to enter the UAE and start working.

Visa fees: The visa fees for work visas vary depending on the type of visa and your nationality.

Validity: The validity of a work visa depends on the type of visa you have. Standard work visas are valid for 2-3 years, green visas are valid for 5 years.

Extension: You can extend your work visa for a maximum of 2 years. To extend your visa, you must apply for an extension at a UAE immigration office.

Here are some of the benefits of having a work visa in the UAE:

• Allows you to live and work in the UAE.
• Allows you to bring your dependents to live in the UAE.
• Allows you to travel to and from the UAE freely.
• Allows you to open a bank account in the UAE.
• Allows you to buy property in the UAE.

Student Visa:

Eligibility: To be eligible for a student visa in the UAE, you must:

• Be a citizen of a country that is eligible to study in the UAE.
• Have a valid passport that is at least six months old.
• Have been accepted to a UAE-accredited university or school.
• Have a medical fitness certificate.
• Have a police clearance certificate.
• Have proof of financial support.

Application process: The application process for a student visa in the UAE typically takes 4-6 weeks to complete. The process involves the following steps:

You will need to apply for admission to a UAE-accredited university or school.

Retirement Visa:

The UAE offers a retirement visa for individuals who are at least 55 years old and meet certain financial requirements. The visa is valid for 5 years and can be renewed for another 5 years.

To be eligible for a retirement visa in the UAE, you must:

• Be at least 55 years old.
• Have a valid passport that is at least six months old.
• Have a minimum of AED 1 million in financial assets.
• Have a medical fitness certificate.
• Have a police clearance certificate.

The application process for a retirement visa in the UAE typically takes 4-6 weeks to complete. The process involves the following steps:

You will need to apply for a retirement visa at a UAE embassy or consulate in your home country.

You will need to provide the following documents to the embassy or consulate:

Your passport and visa application form.

• Proof of your age.
• Proof of your financial assets.
• Medical fitness certificate.
• Police clearance certificate.

Once your application is approved, you will be issued a retirement visa.

The retirement visa in the UAE offers a number of benefits, including:

• The ability to live and work in the UAE.
• The ability to bring your dependents to live in the UAE.
• The ability to travel to and from the UAE freely.
• The ability to open a bank account in the UAE.
• The ability to purchase property in the UAE.

Golden Visa:

The visa is valid for 5 years and can be renewed for another 5 years.

There are different categories of Golden Visa, each with its own eligibility criteria and investment requirements.

Some of the categories of Golden Visa include:

•  Investors: Individuals who invest a minimum of AED 2 million in real estate or AED 10 million in government bonds.
• Entrepreneurs: Individuals who own and manage a business in the UAE that has been in operation for at least 2 years and generates annual revenues of at least AED 1 million.
• Scientists: Individuals who have made significant contributions to the field of science or technology.
• Outstanding students and graduates: Individuals who have achieved outstanding academic results or who have made significant contributions to the field of education.
• Humanitarian pioneers: Individuals who have made significant contributions to the field of humanitarian work.
• Frontline heroes: Individuals who have served in the UAE armed forces or police force.

The Golden Visa offers a number of benefits, including:

• The ability to live and work in the UAE.
• The ability to bring your dependents to live in the UAE.
• The ability to travel to and from the UAE freely.
• The ability to open a bank account in the UAE.
• The ability to purchase property in the UAE.

If you are interested in applying for a Golden Visa in the UAE, you should contact a UAE immigration lawyer or consultant for more information.