Foreign Direct Investment Regimes 2026

CVML

Published on November 19 , 2025

Introduction
TheUnitedArabEmirates(UAE)isoneoftheworld’smostagile and forward-thinking jurisdictions when it comes to legis-lative reform. From swiftly aligning with international tax standards to boldly embracing digital economy regulations, the UAE has consistently proven its ability to adapt at pace with global change. Beyond mere compliance, the country has pioneered governance innovations that few nations have even contemplated.One would think that the UAE government is a laboratory for regulatory innovation, making the country a trend-setter in public policy approach in an era where regulatory agility is increasingly vital for attracting foreign investments and innovation-driven enterprises. This is marked by milestones such as the creation of the Ministry of State for Happiness and Wellbeing, the Ministry of Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work, and the pioneering Entre-preneurshipLeavepolicyforfederalemployees.Theseforward-lookinginitiativespavedthewayforsystemicreformsincluding the Zero Government Bureaucracy Programme, designed to streamline administrative processes, and the establishment of the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA), the world’s first independent regulator for virtual assets positioning Dubai at the forefront of legal and economic transformation.

Today, the UAE is entering a new chapter in its foreign direct investment (FDI) journey, what many now call the “FDI 2.0” era. At the heart of this evolution are three transformative policy pillars: fiscal reform, marked by the introduction of a 9% corporate tax; talent mobility, reflected in next-generation visa frameworks; and green industrialisation, powered by multi-billion-AED clean energy investments.Together,thesedevelopmentsrepresentmorethanregulatory change; they signal a national strategy. A strategy that blends economic openness with cutting-edge innovation, and one that positions the UAE not just as a destination for capital, but as a global partner in shaping the future of sustainable growth.The introduction of a 9% federal corporate tax in the UAE, effective for financial years starting June 1, 2023, represents a decisive policy shift, aligning the country more closely with international tax norms and OECD-driven standards on base erosion and profit shifting. Enacted under Federal Decree-Law 47 of 2022, the framework applies a 0% rate on profits up to AED 375,000 and 9% above that threshold, while preserving a 0% incentive on qualifying income for Free Zone entities. This balanced approach seeks to broaden the fiscal base without undermining the UAE’s traditional appeal to investors. By enhancing transparency and predictability, the reform strengthens the country’s competitive positioning asa global business hub while signalling a longer-term commit-ment to sustainable revenue generation.

The relaunch of the residency ecosystem, comple-menting existing visa categories with new incentives, targets knowledge-based and environmental talent. The Golden Visa, first launched in 2019, was significantly broadened in 2024 to coverawiderpoolofinvestors,entrepreneurs,andhighlyskilled professionals. In May 2025, the government launched the Blue Residency visa, a 10-year permit designed to draw sustainability leaders and experts in clean energy and environmental technol-ogies, emphasising the country’s commitment to positioning itself as a hub for innovation and climate-driven growth.

Third, and perhaps most consequential is the country’s commitment to green hydrogen and associated clean energy megaprojects. Under its National Hydrogen Strategy 2050, the UAE aims to produce green hydrogen at an industrial scale and at cost-competitive levels. This policy is supported by high-profile initiatives such as the Al Dhafra hydrogen export plant and the Fujairah ammonia hub, all backed by billions in projected private and public investment.The combination of these elements lead to fiscal clarity, immigration-driven talent, and green industrial strategy, and has created a powerful recipe for FDI. International investors no longer see just low-tax offshore jurisdiction or land of head-line corporate tax rates, they also see a country able to secure multi-decade projects with skilled teams, stable economics, and global environmental alignment. It is no accident that 2024 saw record FDI inflows, with the UAE ranking first in the Arab region and 10th worldwide, per UNCTAD’s World Investment Report 2025.

As foreign capital increasingly seeks jurisdictions that can deliver financial certainty, human capital depth, and policy-driven transition, the UAE’s new framework is uniquely well positioned, not just as an investment target, but as a strategic partner for the global low-carbon transition.

Importance of FDI for Economic Growth
Every new regulation or policy issued and implemented in the UAE allows us to better understand how the government views FDI as a key driver for its economic growth, innovation, and global integration and how it strategically focuses on FDI to create a conducive environment for foreign investors.

This can be easily seen in the establishment of an advanced infrastructure, adopting business-friendly regulations, and offering significant incentives such as tax exemptions, repatri-ation of profits, and full foreign ownership in specific sectors, and more importantly launching the UAE’s Zero Bureaucracy Initiative2 aiming to enhance government efficiency bystreamlining administrative procedures and eliminating unnecessary bureaucracy. These measures are designed to attract investment in high-priority areas like technology, renewable energy, real estate, and healthcare, which are crucial for the country’s long-term economic goals.

While the United Kingdom is projected to experience a historic net loss of 16,500 millionaires in 2025, the UAE is expected to attract a remarkable 9,800 migrating million-aires during the same period of time. A clear indicator of robust capital inflows and long-term investor confidence.3 This wealth migration translates into substantial FDI, fuel-ling growth in the UAE’s real estate, family office services, and broader financial ecosystem. The surge of high-net-worth indi-viduals enhances liquidity, stimulates demand for professional services,andcementstheUAE’sroleasaglobalinvestmenthub.

Building on these transformations, the UAE has strength-ened its startup-friendly ecosystem initially included in its 2021 vision, and expanded access to venture capital, helping to accelerate the shift toward a knowledge-based economy. This strategy prioritises nurturing a highly skilled workforce and embedding advanced technologies across key sectors of the economy.

Overall, FDI is integral to the broader economic strategy, driving diversification, innovation, and global competitive-ness; and it is solidifying the UAE’s position as a leading global investment destination.

The Shift Towards Green Energy
Alongside broader economic diversification, significant steps have been accomplished on a green energy level. Notable examples include the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park in Dubai, which is set to become one of the world’s largestsolarinstallationswithacapacityof5GW,4andSHAMS 1,5 one of the largest concentrated solar power plants globally, located near Abu Dhabi. These flagship projects reinforce the country’s dedication to renewables and are closely aligned with the UAE Energy Strategy 2050,6 which targets a balanced energy mix of 44% clean energy, 38% natural gas, 12% clean coal, and 6% nuclear energy.

TheBarakahNuclearPowerPlant,thefirstintheArabworld, also marks a significant step towards reducing the carbon footprint in the country. Furthermore, hosting significant events such as Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (during which the World Future Energy Summit takes place), the Water, Energy, Technology, and Environment Exhibition (WETEX), and actively participating in international agreements like the Paris Agreement, underline the UAE’s role as a global leader in green energy innovation and policy.

The UAE government has implemented a range of policies and incentives to stimulate investments in green energy. A key policy is the UAE Energy Strategy 2050,7 which provides a comprehensive roadmap for increasing the use of clean energy and reducing carbon footprints across the emirates. Financial incentives include subsidies for solar panel installations and reductions in tariffs for renewable energy production, making it more economically viable for businesses and residen-tial users alike, attracting substantial FDI, as highlighted by several key projects:

Masdar City in Abu Dhabi8 stands as one of the world’s most ambitious experiments in sustainable urban devel-opment. Designed to be a hub for clean technology and innovation, it brings together companies, researchers, and investors committed to renewable energy and green solutions. Beyond being a business cluster, the city serves as a living testbed for sustainable design, energy effciency, and low-carbon infrastructure, attractingglobal frms that see the UAE as a leader in the transition to a greener economy.
The Noor Abu Dhabi Solar Plant, ranked among the largest single-site solar projects in the world, highlights the UAE’s growing role in renewable energy. Developed through a consortium that includes Japan’s Marubeni Corporation and China’s Jinko Solar, the project illus- trates how the country is able to draw major interna- tional partners and investments into large-scale clean energy ventures.

Together, these projects show how the UAE is leveraging clear policies and targeted incentives to channel foreign investment into green energy. The result is a growing port-folio of sustainable developments that not only strengthens the country’s clean energy capacity but also advances its long-term strategy of diversifying the national energy mix.

Advancements in Technology
Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed’s 2024 visit to the United States painted the growing strategic ties between the UAE and the US, marked by a landmark agreement on artificial intelligence (AI) that signalled a new phase of cooperation in cutting-edge technology.9 This agreement will strengthen the UAE’s posi-tion as a global technology hub, drawing in FDI and encour-aging international companies to establish a presence in the country. By supporting innovation, and accelerating the development of advanced infrastructure, this partnership will enhance the UAE’s appeal as a destination for long-term investment in high-growth technology sectors.Key areas of focus for technology and innovation include AI, robotics, and fintech, which are integral to the nation’s vision of becoming a global leader in the digital economy. AI is a priority,withtheUAEappointingaMinisterforAI10tointegrate AI into government services and industries and drive develop-ments in healthcare, transport, and education, enhancing effi-ciency and creating new economic opportunities.Robotics is another significant area, with applica-tions ranging from advanced manufacturing to healthcare and logistics, aiming to automate and optimise industrial processes and everyday life.

Fintech is also rapidly expanding, supported by the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)’s Fintech Hive,11 which nurtures startups and global firms developing solutions in payments, blockchain, and Islamic fintech. These focus areas not only attract substantial investments but also position the UAE at the forefront of technological innovation.

It is easy to notice that heavy investments were placed with the purpose of developing technology parks and innovation hubs to boost the technology sector and attract global talent and investment. Notable among these is Dubai Internet City, a technology park serving as a base for leading technology companies and startups. Similarly, Abu Dhabi’s Masdar City focuses on sustainability and green technologies, providing a platform for research and development in renewable energy and clean technologies. The Dubai Silicon Oasis offers both a living and working integrated community, specialising in electronic technology. These hubs provide state-of-the-art infrastructure, business services, and regulatory frameworks designed to support innovation and foster growth in high-tech industries.

Several initiatives and funds designed to nurture the tech startup ecosystem and attract foreign tech investors were launched, including the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), which provides competitive incentives and support to tech companies, including financial grants and rebates on payroll and operational costs. Similarly, the Dubai Future Foundation’s initiatives, such as Area 2071, aim to foster inno-vationbyprovidingaspaceforstartups,investors,andgovern-ment entities to collaborate on future technologies.

In addition to these initiatives, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Innovation Fund accelerates the growth of innovative busi-nesses with financial support and mentorship. This fund targets sectors such as biotechnology, renewable energy, and digital technology.

Growth in Healthcare
When it comes to healthcare infrastructure, one would notice significant advancements, distinguished by world-class insti-tutions like the Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, which reported over10,000internationalpatientencountersin2024,reflecting a 35% year-on-year surge, making a clear marker of the nation’s growing prominence in medical tourism.12 Meanwhile, Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC), the world’s largest healthcare free zone, has evolved into a comprehensive ecosystem of clinical care, research, education, and wellness services.

Investments in innovation continue to elevate the sector. Hospitals are integrating telemedicine, robotic surgery, and AI-driven diagnostics technologies that enhance access and elevate care standards nationwide. These advances are supported by solid regulatory frameworks and ongoing public funding, reinforcing the UAE as a destination for medical excellence. Moreover, medical tourism is emerging as a lucra-tive growth area. In 2023, Dubai welcomed over 691,000 international health tourists, who injected more than AED 1.03 billion (approx. USD 280 million) into the economy.13 The UAE’s medical tourism market is speculated to reach USD 2.3 billion by 2033, with a projected CAGR of 8.7% from 2024.14

The UAE healthcare sector presents a wealth of invest-ment opportunities, driven by a rapidly growing population, increased life expectancy, and governmental pushes towards healthcare development and innovation. The government’s vision to provide world-class healthcare has spurred signifi-cant growth in hospital and clinic infrastructures, with both public and private investments flourishing.

One outstanding area for investment is medical tourism,which the UAE is actively promoting, especially in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. These emirates are enhancing their healthcare facilities with cutting-edge technologies and luxury patient services, aiming to attract patients from around the world seeking high-quality medical treatments.

There is also substantial growth potential in specialised healthcare services such as cardiology, oncology, and ortho-paedics, which are in high demand due to increasing health consciousness and a rising prevalence of chronic diseases. Furthermore, the UAE’s focus on healthcare IT innovations, such as telemedicine, AI in diagnostic tools, and electronic health records, offers ample opportunities for tech companies and startups to invest in the development of smart healthcare solutions.

Additionally, the government is encouraging investment through incentives like 100% foreign ownership, tax exemp-tions, and world-class business infrastructure, making the healthcare sector not only vital but also attractive for FDI. Key policies are focused on encouraging partnerships, innovation, and sustainability in healthcare practices.

One of the cornerstone policies is the encouragement of public–private partnerships in hospital management and healthcare services. These partnerships allow for the sharing of resources and expertise between the government and private entities, leading to improvements in healthcare quality and efficiency. For example, DHCC operates under a free-zone model that permits 100% foreign ownership and offers tax-free operations, attracting international hospital groups and healthcare investors to establish operations without local partnership requirements.

Corporate Tax Implementation – PracticalImplications for Investors
The introduction of a federal corporate tax regime, effective for financial years beginning on or after 1 June 2023, marks a fundamental shift in the country’s investment landscape. At its core, the regime imposes a 9% tax on profits above AED 375,000, with a 0% rate for smaller businesses below this threshold. Qualifying Free-Zone Persons continue to benefit from a 0% rate on eligible income, preserving the UAE’s competitive edge as a base for regional headquarters and holding companies.

For investors, however, the impact of this reform extends far beyond headline rates. Companies are now required to maintain audited financial statements, comply with transfer pricing rules, and prepare contemporaneous documenta-tion aligned with OECD standards. This introduces a new level of governance and transparency, ensuring that profits reported in the UAE are supported by real economic activity. The law also interacts closely with existing frameworks such as Economic Substance Regulations and Country-by-Country Reporting, requiring multinational groups to carefully coordi-nate their compliance strategies.

Importantly, the UAE’s 9% corporate tax rate remains one of the lowest globally. By comparison, average corporate tax rates in the European Union exceed 20%, while countries such as Singapore (17%) and Hong Kong (16.5%) levy nearly double the UAE’s standard rate. Rather than undermining compet-itiveness, the reform is widely seen as a maturity milestone – aligning the country with international norms while rein-forcing its reputation as a transparent, rules-based jurisdic-tion. For foreign investors, this blend of predictability, low tax burden, and legal certainty continues to make the UAE a premier investment destination.
FDI in Leisure and Entertainment
The diversification strategy has recently expanded into the leisure and entertainment sector, marked by the announce-ment of the Wynn Al Marjan Island integrated resort in Ras Al Khaimah. Scheduled to open in 2027, this USD 3.9 billion project will be the first in the GCC to feature regulated gaming facilities within a broader luxury hospitality offering. It repre-sentsoneofthelargestsingleFDIsintheregion’stourismsector, combining hotel, entertainment, and convention facilities.

The project is being developed under the oversight of the newly established General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA), which will regulate commercial gaming and integrated resorts in the UAE. While culturally sensi-tive, this development reflects a calculated policy shift aimed at capturing high-value tourism and enhancing the country’s competitiveness in the global leisure market.

The scale of the economic impact is notable. Wynn Resorts has already started hiring, with its workforce expected to expand from 80 employees in 2025 to over 300 by year-end, and ultimately creating more than 7,500 direct jobs when the resort opens.15 Revenue projections are equally significant as Wynn forecasts annual gross gaming revenues between USD 1 billion and 1.66 billion, with total operating revenues including hospitality and dining estimated at USD 1.38 to 1.88 billion;16 and attracting over 5 million visitors annually by 2030.17

Beyond its immediate financial footprint, Wynn Al Marjan illustrates the UAE’s ability to attract and structure mega-projects with global operators while designing regulatory frameworks that balance innovation with cultural consider-ations, positioning the country as a first mover in the Gulf’s leisure economy.

Family Offices and Wealth Management

The attraction of high-net-worth individuals to the UAE has been reinforced by the record inflow of global wealth in 2025. As previously mentioned, according to Henley & Partners, the country is expected to welcome nearly 9,800 millionaires this year, while traditional wealth centres such as the UK face historic outflows. This migration trend has placed Dubai and Abu Dhabi at the forefront of global family office growth.

Both the DIFC and the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) have developed tailored frameworks for single- and multi-family offices, offering tax efficiency, robust governance, and access to world-class financial and legal infrastructure. These regimes provide families with structured solutions for wealth preservation, succession planning, and cross-border invest-ments. The addition of long-term residency options such as the Golden Visa and the newly launched Blue Residency further strengthens the UAE’s appeal, giving wealthy families stability and a platform for multi-generational planning.

Family offices are not only conduits for private capital but also catalysts for broader FDI. Their activities often extend into private equity, venture capital, real estate, and philan-thropy, aligning with the UAE’s diversification agenda. Increasingly, global asset managers, private banks, and profes-sional service firms are establishing or expanding their pres-ence in the Emirates to service this growing client base.

By combining lifestyle appeal with legal certainty and inter-national connectivity, the UAE has positioned itself as a global capital for wealth management. This trend underscores how targeted regulatory frameworks, when paired with strategic residency initiatives, can transform capital inflows into long-term investment ecosystems.

FDI in Real Estate and Tourism

Real estate has long been one of the strongest magnets for FDI in the UAE, and this trend shows no serious signs of slowing. Dubai’s real estate market closed in 2024 with record-breaking numbers, registering approximately 226,000 real estate trans-actions, with a combined value of AED 761 billion, a remark-able 36% growth in volume and 20% growth in value year-on-year.18 The introduction of 100% foreign ownership rights in designated zones, coupled with long-term residency options like the Golden Visa, has provided international investors with both security and stability. For many, real estate investment is not only a financial decision but also a pathway to residency and family relocation, further fuelling demand.

Tourism, which contributes around 12% to national GDP, has become another pillar of FDI inflows.19 The government’s Tourism Strategy 2031 aims to attract 40 million hotel guests annually and increase the sector’s contribution to AED 450 billion. This strategy is driving investment in hotels, resorts, and leisure infrastructure.

The synergy between real estate and tourism is particu-larly powerful; growing visitor numbers sustain demand for hospitality assets, while the lifestyle proposition attracts high-net-worth individuals to invest in property. Together,these sectors remain cornerstones of the UAE’s diversifica-tion strategy, providing a steady pipeline of foreign capital and long-term economic value.

Geopolitical Positioning and Global Trade Routes

It should be noted that the UAE’s ability to attract and sustain FDI is closely tied to its strategic geographic location at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa. This positioning has enabled the country to establish itself as a global hub for logis-tics, trade, and re-exports, supported by world-class infra-structure such as Jebel Ali Port, one of the busiest ports world-wide, and Dubai International Airport, consistently ranked among the top for international passenger traffic.

Recent trade policy developments have amplified this advantage. The UAE has signed a series of Comprehensive EconomicPartnershipAgreementswithkeymarketsincluding India, Indonesia, and Turkey, with further negotiations underway with other high-growth economies. These agree-ments enhance market access for UAE-based businesses and, by extension, make the country a more attractive jurisdiction for foreign investors looking to use the Emirates as a spring-board into regional and global markets.

Connectivity is another defining strength. Emirates Airline and Etihad Airways provide unmatched global air links, while large-scale logistics investments in DP World and the Etihad Rail network are integrating maritime, air, and land transport corridors. Together, these assets give investors in manufac-turing, distribution, and services unrivalled access to global supply chains.

By leveraging its geopolitical position and expanding trade networks, the UAE continues to offer investors a platform that extends well beyond domestic demand. For many multina-tionals, establishing operations in the Emirates is not simply about accessing the local market but about anchoring a global or regional strategy.

The Conclusion: The UAE as a Model for Emerging Markets

The evolution over the past two decades has transformed the UAE from a regional trading hub into a global model for how emerging markets can attract and sustain FDI. What makes this country distinctive is not only the scale of its reforms but the speed and coherence with which they have been imple-mented. From introducing a competitive corporate tax regime aligned with international standards, to pioneering regu-latory frameworks in digital assets, renewable energy, and healthcare, the country has consistently shown a willingness to anticipate global trends rather than simply react to them.

Equally important is the UAE’s ability to balance openness with governance. Initiatives such as 100% foreign owner-ship, long-term residency visas, and family office frameworks have made the Emirates a magnet for investors and high-net-worth individuals. At the same time, robust compliance regimes, covering areas such as AML, ESR, and ESG disclo-sures, provide the transparency and predictability interna-tional investors demand.

The geopolitical location, advanced infrastructure, and trade agreements amplify this value proposition by offering access to regional and global markets far beyond its borders. When combined with its ambitious sustainability agenda and investments in knowledge-based sectors, the UAE presents a compelling case for how an emerging economy can diversify successfully while safeguarding long-term resilience.

For policymakers in other emerging markets, the GCC country offers a blueprint: targeted reforms; regulatory inno-vation; and a relentless focus on investor confidence can trans-form capital inflows into lasting economic development. For investors, the UAE is no longer just a gateway to the Middle East, but a partner in shaping the global economy of the future.

Endnotes

UAE Government Media Office, U AE launches Blue Residency visa for sustainability experts (May 2025), available at: h ttps://uaecabinet.ae
Ministry of Finance, UAE Government, Zero Government Bureaucracy Programme. Available at: https://mof.gov.ae/zero- bureaucracy/#:~:text=The%20UAE%20launched%20a%20Zero%20 Government%20Bureaucracy%20(ZGB)
Henley & Partners at: h ttps://www.henleyglobal.com/newsroom/press-releases/henley-private-wealth-migration-report-2025
https://www.mbrsic.ae/en/about/mohammed-bin-rashid-al-maktoum-solar-park/utm_source=chatgpt.com
Shams Power Company, Pioneering Solar Energy in the UAE, available at: h ttps://shamspower.ae
https://climate-laws.org/document/uae-energy-strategy-for-2050_9ed5
UAE Government, UAE Energy Strategy 2050. Available at: https://u.ae/en/about-the-uae/strategies-initiatives-and-awards/strategies-plans-and-visions/environment-and-energy/uae-energy-strategy-2050#:~:text=The%20UAE%20Energy%20Strategy%202050%20aims%20to%20triple%20the%20contribution
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Masdar_City
The White House (2024) U.S.–UAE Joint Leaders’ Statement:
Dynamic Strategic Partners. Available at: https://www.uae-embassy.
org/news/uae-usa-issue-joint-statement-visit-president-uae-washington
Ministry of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy & Remote
Work Applications Office, UAE Council for Artificial Intelligence and
Blockchain. Available at: https://ai.gov.ae/ai_council
Dubai International Financial Centre, Innovation Hub. Available at:
https://www.difc.ae/ecosystem/innovation-hub
https://www.clevelandclinicabudhabi.ae/en/media-center/
news/ccad-reports-35-percent-growth-in-international-patient
volume-for-2024
https://www.reportlinker.com/article/10387
https://thedyorama.com/p/transforming-beauty-and-wellness-the
uae-s-exclusive-approach-to-medical-tourism-for-the-ultra-disce
https://www.khaleejtimes.com/jobs/
wynn-marjan-over-7500-vacancies
https://gaming-awards.com/NEWS/
wynn-resorts-projects-8-billion-gaming-market-potential-in-uae
https://agbrief.com/news/uae/28/10/2024/
wynn-al-marjan-island-set-to-open-in-the-first-quarter-of-2027-report
https://dubailand.gov.ae/en/news-media/dubai-s-real-estate-sector
records-aed761-billion-in-transactions-in-2024
https://wttc.org/research/economic-impact

The UAE’s Next FDI Wave Under the Corporate-Tax Era

Charbel (Charles) Dersahakian is the Managing Partner of CVML, the largest French law firm in the United Arab Emirates. He oversees
the firm’s strategy, growth, and client portfolio across a diverse regional and international practice. With more than two decades of experience in the UAE legal market, he brings both technical expertise and a pragmatic understanding of how law, business, and regulation
converge in one of the world’s most competitive jurisdictions.
Since assuming leadership of CVML in 2019, Charles has guided the firm’s expansion in Dubai and consolidated its position as the
leading French law practice in the country. His career spans senior roles in government and multinational corporations, including Chief
Legal Officer at Ras Al Khaimah Investment Authority (now RAKEZ), Regional Counsel for Unilever in the Gulf, and Legal Director at
TECOM Investments, part of Dubai Holding.
He has advised government and semi-government entities, blue-chip multinationals, and high-growth SMEs on a broad range of corporate and commercial matters, from mergers and acquisitions and joint ventures to regulatory compliance and electronic transactions.
Charles has also contributed to the drafting of key laws and regulations, underscoring his ability to shape both high-stakes transactions
and the wider legal framework in which they operate.
CVML Limited
Office 1705, Emirates Financial Towers
Eastern Side, Al Sukook Street
DIFC, Dubai
United Arab Emirates
Tel: +971 4587 5333
Email: c.dersahakian@cvml.com
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/cdersahakian

Naji Khairallah is a Partner and Head of the Commercial practice at CVML based in Dubai, where he leads the firm’s work on complex
corporate transactions and high-value commercial mandates across the Middle East. With more than 15 years of experience, he advises
regional and international clients on company formations, restructurings, mergers and acquisitions, trademark strategies, and the negotiation and drafting of sophisticated commercial agreements.
Naji has earned a reputation for guiding clients through cross-border and multi-jurisdictional matters with both precision and pragmatism. His experience spans joint ventures, franchise and distribution structures, shareholder and management arrangements, and an
extensive array of commercial contracts. He has advised clients across diverse industries, including hospitality and tourism, healthcare,
technology, media and culture, construction and design, manufacturing, and contracting, giving him a broad perspective on the challenges and opportunities within each sector. As head of practice, Naji takes a holistic, solution-oriented approach to client matters. His
background includes work with prominent regional and international law firms in the UAE and Lebanon, where he gained valuable experience in corporate and commercial law, banking and finance, real estate, and construction. This multidisciplinary foundation enables
him to anticipate risks, align legal strategies with commercial objectives, and deliver results that not only resolve immediate issues but
also protect and enhance long-term value.
Beyond his transactional expertise, Naji is known for his ability to manage negotiations involving multiple stakeholders, balance complex
interests, and bridge cultural and legal differences across the GCC and wider MENA region. He frequently advises entrepreneurs,
investors, and multinational groups, offering practical insights that combine technical legal knowledge with a clear understanding of
market dynamics. Naji is admitted to practise before the Tripoli Bar and is registered with the Dubai Legal Affairs Department (DLAD)
to practise law in Dubai. He holds advanced academic qualifications in business and private law from leading institutions in France and
Lebanon, complemented by specialised international legal training. Fluent in English, Arabic, and French, he draws on his multilingual
and multicultural background to serve clients seamlessly across jurisdictions and legal systems.
Through his leadership of CVML’s Corporate & Commercial practice, Naji continues to strengthen the firm’s reputation as a trusted
partner for clients navigating high-stakes transactions and complex commercial landscapes in the UAE and beyond.
CVML Limited
Office 1705, Emirates Financial Towers
Eastern Side, Al Sukook Street
DIFC, Dubai
United Arab Emirates
Tel: +971 4587 5333
Email: n.khairallah@cvml.ae
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/naji-khairallah-1a613368

Since its founding in Paris in 2003, CVML has grown into a bridge between Europe and the Middle East. In 2010, the firm planted its flag in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), becoming the largest French law firm in the UAE and a trusted advisor to clients navigating complex cross-border business.
CVML’s strength lies in its dual identity. With local roots, the firm brings deep knowledge of UAE, DIFC, and regional frameworks. With inter-national reach, it delivers the sophistication and standards expected by multinationals, governments, family offices, and entrepreneurs alike.
The team of multi-specialist lawyers reflects this blend. They understand civil and common law systems, move fluently between English, Arabic, and French, and advise on everything from corporate structuring and M&A to disputes, regulatory matters, and private client work.

What sets CVML apart is not only the quality of its legal advice, but its philosophy: a client-first culture; a commitment to knowledge-sharing; and an insistence on excellence. The result is pragmatic solutions, crafted with global perspective and delivered with local precision.
In a crowded market, CVML’s promise is simple yet powerful: a law firm with local roots and international reach.

International Comparative Legal Guides

The International Comparative Legal Guides (ICLG) series brings key cross-border insights to legal practitioners worldwide, covering 58 practice areas.

Foreign Direct Investment Regimes 2026 features two expert analysis chapters and 30 Q&A jurisdiction chapters covering key issues, including:

Foreign Investment Policy
Law and Scope of Application
Jurisdiction and Procedure
Substantive Assessment