When business conditions become challenging, a common question arises: Can a party legally terminate a contract due to changed circumstances? Under UAE law, the answer depends on whether performance has become impossible or merely difficult. This distinction separates a valid force majeure claim from a standard commercial hardship argument. What force majeure means under UAE […]

Planning for the future is one of the most responsible decisions you can make—especially if you are an expat living in the UAE with assets, business interests, or dependents. Recent changes in UAE civil laws have made will registration more important than ever to ensure your wishes are respected and your loved ones are protected. […]

The showroom is impressive, and the agent assures you, “Everyone signs these standard terms.” You receive the SPA (Sale & Purchase Agreement), a lengthy document with clauses that may contain costly terms you might overlook. If you’re buying property in Dubai or the UAE especially off-plan, this one document can make your purchase feel smooth… […]

For high-net-worth individuals and family offices, buying property in an individual name is often less efficient than using a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV). In 2026, structures in the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) and Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) are the gold standard for property holding. Why Use an SPV? Asset Protection: The property is […]

You don’t need to be in Dubai to manage a thriving property portfolio. In 2026, the Dubai Land Department (DLD) has fully integrated digital solutions for overseas owners, but the legal document at the heart of it all remains the Power of Attorney (POA). Types of POA for Property Property Management POA: Grants an agent […]

In commercial real estate—especially for large-scale warehouses and offices—maintenance disputes are a leading cause of litigation. Unlike residential properties, the line between “minor” and “major” repairs can involve millions of Dirhams in industrial equipment and structural integrity. Structural vs. Operational Maintenance Under UAE law, the default position is: The Landlord: Responsible for structural maintenance and […]

Life and business move fast in Dubai. Whether it’s a sudden job relocation or a strategic business pivot, you may find yourself needing to break a lease before its expiry. In the UAE, there is no automatic statutory right for a tenant to terminate a lease early; the process is primarily dictated by your contract […]

The legal landscape for bounced cheques in the UAE changed significantly with the 2022 reforms, and as of 2026, the focus has shifted almost entirely from criminal punishment to Civil Execution. Understanding this shift is vital for both landlords seeking payment and tenants facing financial difficulty. Decriminalization of “Insufficient Funds” In the past, a bounced […]

A common question in 2026 is whether a landlord has the right to ask a tenant to leave simply because they want to move in themselves or sell the property. The answer is yes, but the rules are very specific to prevent landlords from using these reasons as a “loophole” to find a higher-paying tenant. […]

In the Dubai rental market, the security deposit—typically 5% of the annual rent for unfurnished properties and 10% for furnished ones—is a frequent point of contention. While the law is clear that this amount should be refunded upon the expiry of the lease, many tenants find themselves facing unfair deductions or outright refusals. The Legal […]