A Transformative Geopolitical Shift – G20 Leaders Unveil Ambitious Infrastructure Project

During the G20 Summit in New Delhi, President Biden and an assembly of world leaders unveiled an ambitious international infrastructure project to transform the global geopolitical landscape. This initiative aims to connect India, the Middle East, and Europe through an extensive network of railways, shipping lines, high-speed data cables, and energy pipelines. The far-reaching implications of this project extend to businesses seeking opportunities in the mentioned regions, making it a pivotal development for the corporate world and for many business owners based in the UAE and/or intending to set up a new business structure in the region.

Challenging China’s Belt and Road Initiative

At the heart of this initiative lies a strategic intent to challenge China´s Belt and Road Initiative, steadily expanding its economic and geopolitical influence worldwide. By providing an alternative vision, President Biden and the participating nations are working to foster greater economic and strategic cooperation, offering an alternative to China´s economic presence in the region.

A Catalyst for Your Business Opportunities and Vision:

Regional Renaissance: The infrastructure development promised through this project has the potential to ignite a regional renaissance. For businesses, this means new markets, increased trade, and opportunities for investment across the entire corridor – from India to Europe, with crucial stops and further business development in the entire Middle East region.

Enhances Connectivity: One of the key objectives of this initiative is to enhance connectivity. Businesses thrive on efficient transportation and communication networks. With the establishment of new railways, shipping lines, and high-speed data cables, the ease of doing business in these regions, especially through your UAE business, which serves as a regional hub, is poised to improve significantly.

Clean Energy Opportunities: The commitment to transfer clean energy across the participating countries presents a major opportunity for businesses in the renewable energy sector. As the world moves towards sustainability, companies involved in clean energy technologies and solutions will find a welcoming environment for their products and services.

Stable Internet Service: The promise of fast and stable internet service in the Middle East is a boon for tech companies and businesses reliant on digital infrastructure. This will enable smoother operations, enhanced e-commerce capabilities, and the potential for technology partnerships and innovation.

Global Collaboration

The global participation in this initiative is a testament to its potential to foster international collaboration on a grand scale. For businesses, this means access to a broader network of partners, investors, and markets. The collaboration between India, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and the European Commission provides a unique opportunity for your business setup through cross-border ventures and partnerships that can drive innovation and business growth.

Investment and Commitment

The commitment of significant investment from Saudi Arabia showcases the urgency and seriousness with which the KSA views the significant project. This commitment translates into a stable business investment climate, making these regions, especially the UAE and KSA, attractive destinations for expansion, joint ventures, and investment opportunities.

Tax Audits in the UAE

Tax audits in the UAE often trigger apprehension among businesses due to the country’s rigorous tax compliance regime. This article outlines the legal foundation of tax audits under UAE law, delineates the rights of both the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) and taxpayers, and provides strategic guidance for businesses to prepare effectively. Emphasizing readiness, procedural awareness, and system reliability, the article aims to foster a proactive compliance mindset among UAE-based enterprises.

FTA Publishes New Guide on Interest Deduction Limitation Rules under UAE Corporate Tax Law

The guide reflects the UAE’s intention to bring its corporate tax regime in line with international best practices, particularly the OECD’s BEPS (Base Erosion and Profit Shifting) framework, specifically Action 4, which addresses excessive interest deductions. Companies are well advised to incorporate these rules into their tax planning strategies to avoid adverse consequences and to benefit from the flexibility that the legislation offers when applied correctly.

Legal Analysis of the UAE’s New End-of-Service Gratuity Savings Scheme

The UAE’s new end-of-service savings model represents a forward-thinking reform that offers substantial benefits for both employees and employers. The ability to transfer gratuity funds into professionally managed investment schemes provides greater transparency and long-term financial security. Companies interested in participating should proactively adjust their internal processes to take full advantage of this innovative model.

The New UAE Competition Law

The reform of competition law in the UAE marks a significant step towards a more modern and transparent regulatory framework. The introduction of clearly defined merger control thresholds, the elimination of broad sectoral exemptions, and the substantial tightening of penalties reflect a more regulated competitive environment. The law came into force on December 29, 2023, while the new merger control thresholds have been in effect since March 31, 2025. Companies must therefore ensure full compliance with these new provisions as of that date.

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TME Legal