Key UAE and Middle East Updates: New Tax Rules, Real Estate Records, Top Workplaces, and Oman’s Golden Visa Announced This Week

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September 6, 2025

Major Shifts in UAE and oman: Tax Reforms, Real Estate Surges, and Investment Incentives

A wave of transformative changes is sweeping across the united arab Emirates and Oman, shaping a new economic landscape for the region. From updated tax regulations and record-breaking property sales to new residency programs and enhanced security measures,key developments are impacting businesses and investors alike.

UAE Free Zone Tax Rules Revised

The United arab Emirates Ministry of Finance recently announced revisions to tax regulations governing Free Zones. The earlier Ministerial Decision No. 265 of 2023 has been superseded by Ministerial Decision

What impact might the enhanced transfer pricing rules have on multinational enterprises operating in the UAE?

UAE Corporate tax Updates: What Businesses Need to Know

Recent adjustments to the UAE’s corporate tax (CT) regime are making headlines. While the initial CT law was introduced in June 2023, clarifications and amendments continue to emerge. Key updates for September 6, 2025, focus on:

Free Zone Benefits: Continued clarity around qualifying income for the 0% CT rate for businesses operating within UAE Free Zones. Businesses must demonstrate substantial activity within the zone to maintain eligibility.

transfer Pricing: Enhanced guidance on transfer pricing rules, aligning with OECD standards. This impacts multinational enterprises operating in the UAE.

Tax Filing Deadlines: Reminders regarding upcoming CT filing deadlines for financial years ending in 2024.Businesses are urged to prepare documentation and ensure compliance.

Exempt Income: Further definition of exempt income categories, including specific investment funds and qualifying public benefit non-profit organizations.

Practical Tip: Businesses should consult with a qualified tax advisor to ensure full compliance with the evolving CT regulations. Resources are available through the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) website.

Dubai Real Estate: Breaking Records in 2025

Dubai’s real estate market continues its upward trajectory, consistently breaking records. Recent data indicates:

Record Sales Volumes: Q3 2025 saw the highest quarterly sales volume in Dubai’s history, exceeding AED 85 billion.

Luxury Property Demand: Demand for luxury properties (villas and apartments exceeding AED 10 million) remains exceptionally strong, driven by high-net-worth individuals.

Off-Plan Sales: Off-plan property sales continue to dominate the market,accounting for over 60% of total transactions. Developers are launching enterprising new projects to meet demand.

Average Property Prices: average property prices have increased by 15% year-on-year, with prime locations experiencing even higher growth. Areas like Palm Jumeirah and Emirates Hills are leading the charge.

Case Study: The recent launch of a new ultra-luxury waterfront development on the Palm Jumeirah, priced at an average of AED 30 million per unit, sold out within 48 hours, demonstrating the continued appetite for high-end real estate in Dubai.

Top Workplaces in the UAE: Employee Satisfaction & Growth

Several organizations have been recognized as top workplaces in the UAE for 2025, based on employee feedback and satisfaction surveys. Key findings include:

Focus on Employee Wellbeing: Companies prioritizing employee wellbeing, mental health support, and work-life balance consistently rank higher.

Learning & Development Opportunities: Investment in employee training and development programs is a significant factor in attracting and retaining talent.

Inclusive Work Environments: Organizations fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives are experiencing higher levels of employee engagement.

Leading Sectors: Technology, finance, and healthcare sectors are consistently represented among the top workplaces.

Top Ranked Companies (as of Sept 6, 2025 – based on aggregated reports):

1. Microsoft UAE
2. Emirates NBD
3. Accenture UAE
4. DHL Express UAE
5. Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi

Oman’s New Golden Visa: Attracting Long-Term Investors

Oman has announced a new Golden Visa program designed to attract foreign investment and skilled professionals. Key features include:

Eligibility Criteria: The golden Visa is available to investors,entrepreneurs,and highly skilled professionals in specific sectors.

Visa Duration: The visa is initially valid for 5 years and is renewable.

Benefits: Visa holders are granted numerous benefits, including the right to work, study, and own property in Oman without restrictions.

Investment Options: Qualifying investments include real estate purchases (minimum value of OMR 300,000), company establishment, and investment in Omani government bonds.

Benefits of Oman’s Golden Visa:

* Long-Term Residency: Provides a secure pathway