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Showing posts from February, 2026

UAE Ministry of Finance Introduces Tiered Volumetric Excise Tax Model for Sweetened Beverages

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  The UAE Ministry of Finance has announced the introduction of a tiered volumetric excise tax model for sweetened beverages, marking a significant evolution in the country’s fiscal and public health framework. The reform represents a strategic shift from the existing flat-rate excise regime toward a more calibrated taxation structure aligned with sugar content and product composition. Under the new model, excise tax on sweetened beverages will be applied based on the volume of sugar per 100 milliliters, rather than a uniform percentage rate. This tiered mechanism is designed to incentivize manufacturers to reformulate products with lower sugar concentrations, while simultaneously supporting the UAE’s broader public health objectives aimed at reducing sugar consumption and lifestyle-related diseases. The decision reflects a policy alignment between fiscal sustainability and preventive healthcare. By introducing a volumetric structure, the Ministry is enhancing transparency and pr...

AsiaBC Launches Incorporation & Market-Entry Hub in Dubai to Support Global Founders (Feb 2026)

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  In a strategic move reinforcing the UAE’s position as a global business gateway, Asia Business Centre (AsiaBC) has officially launched its first incorporation and market-entry advisory hub in Dubai. The expansion reflects rising demand from international founders and growth-stage companies seeking structured entry into the UAE and wider GCC region. Strategic Expansion into the UAE AsiaBC, a Hong Kong-based corporate advisory firm with a strong footprint in cross-border structuring and Asian market entry, is now positioning Dubai as a central node in its global advisory network. The Dubai hub is designed to provide end-to-end incorporation solutions aligned with regulatory, tax, and operational requirements in the Emirates. This development underscores Dubai’s increasing role as a preferred jurisdiction for global entrepreneurs seeking access to Middle Eastern, African, and South Asian markets. Scope of Services Offered The newly launched hub will provide integrated support...

AE Introduces Corporate Tax Exemption for Sports Entities — Feb 2026

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  Key Policy Update The UAE government has enacted Cabinet Decision No. (1) of 2026 , issued under Federal Decree-Law No. 47 of 2022 (the Corporate Tax Law), which grants a full exemption from corporate tax to qualifying non-commercial sports organizations . This marks a significant fiscal and regulatory shift aimed at bolstering the national sports ecosystem and attracting international sporting bodies to operate in the country. Objective & Strategic Rationale Primary aim: Support sustainable development of the UAE’s sports sector and align with global best practices. Economic strategy: Enhance contribution of sports organizations to the UAE’s broader economic diversification goals and strengthen the Emirates’ position as a global sports hub. Mobility impact: Eases operational and labour cost structures, potentially improving athlete and administrative talent mobility. Who Qualifies for the Exemption To benefit from the tax exemption, entities must satisf...