Welcome to this edition of Law Update, which explores the legal and regulatory developments shaping the real estate sector across the Middle East. As governments continue to refine regulatory frameworks, encourage investment, and support sustainable economic growth, the legal landscape governing real estate is becoming increasingly sophisticated. This edition reflects the sector’s continued evolution, highlighting the legislative reforms, commercial trends, and emerging challenges that are redefining how real estate assets are developed, owned, managed, and transacted across the region.

In this issue, our contributors examine a range of significant developments affecting the sector, with particular focus on the UAE’s evolving regulatory framework. We consider the practical implications of the new Civil Code provisions governing the termination of construction contracts, alongside a series of recent administrative resolutions issued in Abu Dhabi that introduce important reforms relating to ownership structures, common areas, investor protections, and the treatment of cancelled real estate projects. Together, these developments demonstrate an increasing emphasis on transparency, market stability, and the protection of stakeholders throughout the real estate lifecycle.

This edition also explores the broader commercial and strategic trends influencing the market. Our authors examine the continued growth of hotel and branded residence transactions, the emergence of new hospitality destinations within the UAE, and the expanding role of environmental, social and governance (ESG) considerations in real estate development through a comparative analysis of regulatory approaches in the United Kingdom and the UAE. We also address the practical legal considerations arising from geopolitical events, including the contractual and insurance implications of disruption resulting from the recent Iran-related hostilities, offering guidance on the remedies that may realistically be available to affected parties.

Taken together, the articles featured in this real estate edition reflect a sector that is increasingly shaped by regulatory innovation, investor confidence, and evolving market expectations. Whether through legislative reform, new investment models, or greater attention to governance and risk management, the legal environment continues to play a central role in supporting the resilience and long-term growth of the region’s real estate market.

As always, we remain committed to delivering timely, practical insight that helps our clients and readers navigate legal and regulatory change with confidence. We hope you find this edition both informative and valuable as you consider the opportunities and challenges shaping the future of real estate.

Jody Waugh
Managing Partner