Abu Dhabi eases business expansion rules: The Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) introduced new regulations allowing firms registered in other emirates and their respective freezones to open branches in Abu Dhabi without requiring physical premises for the first year, according to the Abu Dhabi Media Office. The regulation applies to 1.2k economic activities (pdf) across various sectors. The goal of the exemption is to boost the emirate’s non-oil economy.

How it works: Companies with licenced establishments in other emirates can apply for new branch licenses through the unified Abu Dhabi Government Services digital platform, TAMM, by submitting the necessary documents, obtaining approvals, and paying fees to receive the economic license for the new branch upon receipt of an acceptance notification. For one year from the date of the issuance of their license, they are allowed to operate out of their regular offices in the other emirate but proceed with operations in the capital.

IN OTHER REGULATION NEWS-

The Abu Dhabi Environment Agency (EAD) has issued new regulations to strengthen environmental protection by imposing stricter administrative penalties on environmental valuations, according to the Abu Dhabi Media Office. The new penalties apply to individuals, establishments, and projects. Penalties include fines, warnings, activity suspensions, license cancelations, and closures.

Violators can appeal penalties within 60 days, with appeals automatically accepted if unresolved in 90 days. EAD considers factors like environmental damage and compliance history when imposing penalties.

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