TME Legal
Dispute Resolution and Litigation
Professional advice on international tax law in Dubai: tax planning, relocation, real estate & corporate structure.
Conflicts in business transactions are sometimes unavoidable. Companies based or operating in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have various dispute resolution instruments at their disposal – from ordinary courts to institutionalized arbitration proceedings to alternative methods such as arbitration and mediation.
The legal system of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is characterized by a complex structure of norms in which federal regulations coexist with emirate-specific regulations. This federal structure leads to considerable challenges in the application and interpretation of law, particularly in civil, criminal and commercial disputes.
Our Consulting Services in International Arbitration, Mediation and Litigation in Dubai and the UAE
Our activities include forensic representation before state courts, arbitration tribunals and in alternative dispute resolution proceedings. In doing so, we pursue the goal of effectively enforcing the substantive and procedural rights of our clients and securing existing business relationships in the long term.
With over 15 years of regional presence, we have in-depth knowledge of the local legal systems of the United Arab Emirates. We combine this with international consulting expertise and a comprehensive understanding of economic contexts.
Legal representation in civil, criminal and commercial court proceedings
In the event of a dispute, TME Legal provides legally sound and experienced representation before the state courts in Dubai and the other emirates of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Our activities include strategic litigation in compliance with all procedural requirements – with the aim of effectively and efficiently enforcing the interests of our clients.
Our consulting services at a glance:
- Strategic advice on litigation in the UAE
- Representation in court hearings
- Enforcement of substantive and procedural claims
- Preparation, justification, and timely submission of procedural briefs
- Conducting settlement negotiations
- Monitoring of all relevant deadlines
- Compliance with all procedural requirements
- Analysis and enforcement of claims for damages
International Arbitration
TME Legal provides comprehensive advice and representation to clients in international arbitration proceedings based in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and other relevant jurisdictions.
We support companies from a wide range of industries in the efficient resolution of complex and cross-border disputes – both institutionalized (e.g., under the rules of DIAC, DIFC-LCIA, ICC, or UNCITRAL) and in ad hoc proceedings.
Our advisory approach aims to identify legal risks at an early stage, limit economic impact, and develop pragmatic, legally sound solutions to protect and enforce your business interests.
Our advisory services include, in particular:
- Analysis and assessment of the advantages of international arbitration for your specific situation
- Drafting, reviewing, and optimizing contracts, including the formulation of robust arbitration clauses
- Selection of suitable arbitrators, taking into account professional expertise and independence
- Representation and strategic support in all stages of proceedings before the international arbitral tribunal
Strategic mediation for business and shareholder disputes
Mediation proceedings offer a structured and efficient way of resolving conflicts out of court and by mutual agreement.
TME Legal provides comprehensive support throughout all phases of the mediation process – from legal and strategic preparation to moderation of the negotiation phase and the drafting and implementation of a viable agreement.
Our goal is to develop practical and sustainable solutions that comply with the legal framework and take into account the economic and personal interests of all parties involved.
Our range of services includes in particular:
- Support in internal disputes
- Assistance in shareholder conflicts
- Advice and moderation in company succession
Legal and Tax Consultants
Our Expert Team
Clear answers
Frequently asked questions about
tax law in Dubai
Does Germany have a double taxation agreement with Dubai?
The previous double taxation agreement between Germany and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) expired on December 31, 2021. An extension or a new agreement has not yet been signed. German citizens and companies based in Germany should therefore carefully examine and plan cross-border tax arrangements in order to avoid double taxation and unforeseeable tax burdens.
Are foreign employees taxed in Dubai?
In the UAE, no tax is levied on the income of natural persons. Foreign employees are therefore not subject to income tax or the associated reporting obligations. This tax framework makes Dubai particularly attractive for highly qualified specialists from abroad.
Are rental income from Dubai taxed in Germany?
Income from letting and leasing is generally subject to the taxation law of the country in which the property is located – in this case Dubai. In Germany, this income would therefore be tax-free.
However, the so-called progression proviso applies: the rental income itself is not taxed, but is included in the calculation of the individual tax rate for the remaining taxable income. This can lead to an increase in the tax rate on other income.
How much tax do you pay in Dubai?
Dubai has a low tax burden by international standards. The corporate income tax for companies is 9%, while the value added tax (VAT) is also moderate at 5%. In principle, no tax is levied on personal income. Likewise, gifts, inheritances and capital gains are generally not subject to taxation.
However, exceptions apply to certain sectors of the economy. For example, banks and companies in the oil and gas industry are subject to special tax regulations, which can provide for tax burdens of up to 55% depending on the individual case.
CONTACT WITH EXPERTISE