14th April 2026 - 20th April 2026 | WEEKLY BUSINESS ROUNDUP

Aligned with global best practices, CBUAE issues updated guidance on Anti-Money Laundering, Combating the Financing of Terrorism and Proliferation Financing (AML/ CFT/ CPF). This move aims to enhance the regulatory framework and strengthen effectiveness of the financial sector's compliance systems.

 

UAE sovereign strength holds firm; Fitch highlights GCC resilience

According to Fitch ratings, UAE’s strong fiscal buffers, diversified export routes and robust non-oil growth are helping shield its sovereign credit profile. UAE’s logistics infrastructure, trade connectivity and investment inflows have also helped maintain economic activity at near-normal levels. Fitch said most GCC sovereign ratings have remained stable despite disruptions.

 

UAE hotel revenues reach AED 49.21 billion in 2025, up 9.7%

The UAE cemented its position as a resilient global model in managing and developing the tourism sector by offering an exceptional experience built on proactiveness, high readiness and rapid response to crises. UAE’s tourism sector showcased robust performance as hotel establishments reported 32.34 million guests, the highest annual figure in the country’s tourism history, compared to 30.75 million guests in 2024, marking 5.2 % growth.

 

FTA announces entry into force of decision amending administrative penalties imposed for violations of tax legislation

UAE Federal Tax Authority (FTA) has announced the entry into force of Cabinet Decision No. (129) of 2025 amending certain provisions of Cabinet Decision No. (40) of 2017 on administrative penalties imposed for violations of tax laws in the UAE. The amendments aim to support taxpayers, reduce their financial burden and help them comply with tax obligations while regularising their positions.

 

Dubai leasing activity steady as Q1 2026 rental contracts hit AED 32.2b

As per Dubai Land Department data, the emirate’s rental market maintained a stable and confident trajectory in Q1 of 2026 furthered by strong regulatory oversight, sustained population growth and continued investor interest. Between January to March 2026, total value of rental contracts reached AED 32.2 billion.

 

Dubai targets 27,000 Emirati SMEs by 2033 with focus on property sector

A key target under the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 is the emirate’s efforts to expand the role of Emirati entrepreneurs in its fast-growing real estate sector.  Dubai strategically aims to increase the number of nationally supported SMEs to 27,000 by 2033 with a streamlined focus in the real  estate sector.

 

Dubai to host 3rd Mawarid FinTech Summit with 1,000 global decision-makers, experts

Dubai is set to host the 3rd Mawarid FinTech Summit to be attended by almost 1,000 of the regions and the world’s most prominent decision-makers, along with representatives from more than 500 specialised institutions and leading entities in the fields of financial services, regulation, and digital innovation.

 

Dubai SME, Dubai Land Department sign MoU to enhance SME integration into Dubai’s real estate sector

The Mohammed Bin Rashid Establishment for Small and Medium Enterprises Development (Dubai SME) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Dubai Land Department (DLD) to accelerate coordination between the two key government entities with a focus on deepening the integration of Emirati-owned SMEs within Dubai’s expanding real estate sector.

 

Ajman DED achieves 97.2% response rate for consumer protection complaints in Q1 2026

As Ajman Department of Economic Development (DED) issued 1,617 new licences, renewed 8,777 licenses in Q1 2026. Number of renewed licences rose by 7% compared to the same period in 2025. Further Ajman DED recorded a notable performance in its on-time response rate for consumer protection complaints and incoming reports during Q1 2026 with the response rate reaching 97.2% of the total 3,375 requests received.