Book an appointment with us, or search the directory to find the right lawyer for you directly through the app.
Find out moreReal estate, construction, and hospitality are at the forefront of transformation across the Middle East – reshaping cities, driving investment, and demanding increasingly sophisticated legal frameworks.
In the June edition of Law Update, we take a closer look at the legal shifts influencing the sector – from Dubai’s new Real Estate Investment Funds Law and major reforms in Qatar, to Bahrain’s push toward digitalisation in property and timeshare regulation. We also explore practical issues around strata, zoning, joint ventures, and hotel management agreements that are critical to navigating today’s market.
As the landscape becomes more complex, understanding the legal dynamics behind these developments is key to making informed, strategic decisions.
2025 is set to be a game-changer for the MENA region, with legal and regulatory shifts from 2024 continuing to reshape its economic landscape. Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Egypt, Iraq, Qatar, and Bahrain are all implementing groundbreaking reforms in sustainable financing, investment laws, labor regulations, and dispute resolution. As the region positions itself for deeper global integration, businesses must adapt to a rapidly evolving legal environment.
Our Eyes on 2025 publication provides essential insights and practical guidance on the key legal updates shaping the year ahead—equipping you with the knowledge to stay ahead in this dynamic market.
On 1st June 2025, the Kuwaiti Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI) announced a new legal directive requiring all companies and institutions operating in Kuwait to disclose the identity of their beneficial owners within a 10-day deadline.
This directive is part of Kuwait’s ongoing efforts to enhance transparency and comply with international standards in the fight against money laundering and terrorism financing. All commercial entities are now legally obligated to identify and report the natural person who exercises actual and effective control over the company—this may include the company director, the principal decision-maker, or the largest shareholder.
The disclosed information will be made accessible to law enforcement, judicial authorities, and regulatory bodies, with the aim of reinforcing transparency in economic and financial activities. Non-compliance may result in legal liability and significant penalties, as the Ministry stressed the importance of accurate company records and regulatory credibility.
To comply, companies must register their beneficial ownership details through the Commercial Register Gateway on the Ministry’s online platform. This requires selecting “Company User” and completing authentication via the “Hawiyati” application.
This announcement serves as the final opportunity to meet the legal obligations and avoid potential violations.
Please ensure the necessary steps are taken before the deadline. Should you require any assistance with the registration process, do not hesitate to reach out.
To learn more about our services and get the latest legal insights from across the Middle East and North Africa region, click on the link below.