Gulf Meridian Knowledge Base

UAE & GCC Regulatory Intelligence

Primary-source guidance derived from official government documents. Every fact is cited and verified.

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Customs & Logistics

Importing into Dubai: A Step-by-Step Customs Guide

Importing goods into Dubai follows a clear sequence: register with Dubai Customs, classify goods by HS code, lodge a customs declaration, pay 5% duty (or 0% into a free zone), and clear the shipment. This guide walks through each step.

2 sourcesRead guide →

Expat & Residency

UAE End of Service Gratuity: How It Is Calculated

UAE employees who complete at least one year of continuous service are entitled to an end-of-service gratuity when they leave. It is calculated on basic salary: 21 days' pay per year for the first five years and 30 days' pay per year after that.

1 year minimumQualifying service

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Company Formation

UAE Mainland LLC Setup: Complete Guide 2025

Since 2021, most UAE mainland activities allow 100% foreign ownership with no Emirati partner. A mainland LLC is licensed by the Department of Economic Development (DED) and can trade anywhere in the UAE and bid for government work. This guide walks through the setup steps, costs, and tax position.

100% (most activities)Foreign ownership of mainland LLC (since 2021)

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Government Contracts

UAE Government Procurement: Tender Registration and Bidding Guide

UAE Federal procurement is governed by Federal Law No. 11 of 2023. All federal tenders above AED 500,000 use the Etimad platform. UAE-registered companies receive a 10% price preference and 10% of contracts are reserved for SMEs.

Federal Law No. 11 of 2023Governing law

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Customs & Logistics

Dubai Customs: Import, Export and Re-Export Complete Guide 2025

Dubai operates under the GCC Common Customs Law with a 5% standard duty on most goods (CIF value). Free zone imports are duty-free. This guide covers declaration procedures, duty calculation, prohibited items, and re-export structuring.

5%Standard customs duty rate (CIF basis)

4 sourcesRead guide →

Expat & Residency

UAE Golden Visa: Complete Eligibility and Application Guide 2025

The UAE 10-year Golden Visa is available to investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, and outstanding students. AED 2M in property or qualifying investment qualifies. Family members are included automatically.

10 years (renewable)Golden Visa duration

2 sourcesRead guide →

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UAE & GCC Regulatory Intelligence

Importing into Dubai: A Step-by-Step Customs Guide

UAE End of Service Gratuity: How It Is Calculated

UAE Mainland LLC Setup: Complete Guide 2025

UAE Government Procurement: Tender Registration and Bidding Guide

Dubai Customs: Import, Export and Re-Export Complete Guide 2025

UAE Golden Visa: Complete Eligibility and Application Guide 2025

Tax & Corporate Law

Company Formation

Expat & Residency

Trade Finance

Government Contracts

Customs & Logistics