UAE Competition Rules Strengthened as New Executive Regulations Take Effect
The UAE has taken another significant step in strengthening its competition regime with Cabinet Resolution No. 59 of 2026, the Executive Regulations of Federal Decree-Law No. 36 of 2023 concerning the Regulation of Competition. The new regulations became effective on 30 July 2026.
The rules provide important procedural detail on competition investigations, dominant market positions and economic concentration transactions, including mergers, acquisitions and certain joint ventures.
A separate Cabinet Decision introduced notification thresholds for economic concentrations. Notification requirements may arise where the parties’ combined annual UAE sales in the relevant market exceed AED 300 million, or where their combined market share exceeds 40%.
The 2026 Executive Regulations now provide further detail about what must accompany an economic concentration application, including information about the parties, affected markets and relevant transactions. Applications may be submitted in Arabic or English, with requirements also applying to supporting documents and confidential information.
Businesses also need to remember that transactions subject to review should not simply proceed while regulatory approval is pending. The Ministry’s review framework provides for a substantial examination period and may involve requests for additional information, commitments from the parties or views from interested third parties.
Why this matters
Competition law should now form part of the early legal due-diligence process for acquisitions, mergers and joint ventures involving UAE businesses or markets.
Parties should consider:
- Whether the transaction constitutes an economic concentration.
- Whether UAE turnover or market-share thresholds are triggered.
- Whether regulatory approval is required before completion.
- Whether transaction documents should address competition-clearance risk.
Early legal assessment can reduce the risk of regulatory delays or unexpected issues close to completion.
Dr. Hamad Alustath Advocates and Legal Consultants advises businesses on commercial agreements, corporate transactions and regulatory compliance in the UAE.
This article provides general information only and is not legal advice.