Federal Decree by Law Regarding the Regulation of Capital Market

The UAE has issued a new federal decree law to regulate the capital market. The law aims to provide a comprehensive framework for the regulation of financial activities and institutions in the UAE. It covers various aspects, including licensing, approves functions, and obligations of licensed persons.

Practice alert

Who should read this

Financial institutions and companies operating in the UAE should immediately review this law to understand their obligations and ensure compliance.

Directly affected

banksinsurance companieslisted entitiesfinancial institutions

Key facts

  • The law was issued on 1 October 2025
  • It will come into effect on 1 January 2026
  • The law regulates financial activities and institutions in the UAE
  • It establishes the Capital Market Authority as the regulatory body
  • The law covers licensing, approved functions, and obligations of licensed persons

What this means for you

The new law provides a comprehensive framework for the regulation of financial activities and institutions in the UAE, which will help to enhance the stability and transparency of the capital market.

Directly affected: banks, insurance companies, listed entities, financial institutions

Effective date: 1 January 2026

Action items

  1. Review the new law and understand the regulatory requirements
  2. Ensure compliance with the new law and regulations
  3. Obtain necessary licenses and approvals from the Capital Market Authority
  4. Establish internal policies and procedures to comply with the new law

Litigation impact

The new law may impact pending or future litigation related to financial activities and institutions in the UAE. It is essential for companies and financial institutions to review the law and seek legal advice to understand the potential implications on their business operations and disputes.

Source

UAE Legislation Portal — Real Estate & Land (Sector 39)
https://uaelegislation.gov.ae/en/legislations/4002
Original-source date: 2025 · Captured: 2026-05-26T10:27+00:00Z

Verified against UAE Legislation Portal — Real Estate & Land (Sector 39) ·
Show full English translation / verbatim source text
The provided text is already in English, so no translation is needed. The full text is about the Federal Decree by Law No. (33) of 2025 Regarding the Regulation of Capital Market, which provides definitions, scope of application, financial activities, and obligations of licensed persons.

This update is generated from a public regulator publication and reviewed under the firm's automated editorial quality gate. General information only — it does not constitute legal advice. For advice on a specific matter, please contact us. Last updated: 26 May 2026.

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Frequently asked questions

What does “Federal Decree by Law Regarding the Regulation of Capital Market” change?

The UAE has issued a new federal decree law to regulate the capital market. The law aims to provide a comprehensive framework for the regulation of financial activities and institutions in the UAE. It covers various aspects, including licensing, approves functions, and obligations of licensed persons.

Who is affected by this update?

banks, insurance companies, listed entities, financial institutions

When does it take effect?

The update takes effect on 1 January 2026.

What should affected businesses do now?

Review the new law and understand the regulatory requirements. Ensure compliance with the new law and regulations. Obtain necessary licenses and approvals from the Capital Market Authority. Establish internal policies and procedures to comply with the new law.