The year 2024 has been a busy period for the UAE with new policies and regulations being implemented that will impact residents and businesses. As the second half of the year approaches, several changes are set to take effect starting July. These changes include new parking fees at Dubai Mall, paid parking in six Dubai neighborhoods, Emiratisation compliance checks, expansion of health insurance coverage, mandatory licensing for influencers, and building classification in Ajman.
Dubai Mall, the largest mall in the UAE, will introduce paid parking in certain areas starting July 1. Visitors will enjoy free parking for the first few hours on weekdays and weekends, after which hourly charges will apply. The fees will be deducted from the motorist’s Salik account upon exit, with tariffs potentially reaching up to Dh1,000.
In response to the growing population and traffic challenges, six key neighborhoods in Dubai will expand their paid parking spaces. With over 7,000 spots available, the parking facility will operate from 8am to 10pm. The new paid parking spaces are expected to be implemented by the end of July, with increased fees for premium spots.
Private companies in the UAE with 50 or more employees are required to meet Emiratisation targets by hiring more UAE Nationals. The final deadline for compliance is June 30, after which fines will be enforced for non-compliance starting July 1. Companies failing to meet the target may face fines of Dh8,000 per Emirati not hired, with increasing penalties each year until 2026.
Health insurance coverage in Abu Dhabi is set to expand for Daman insurance holders, allowing access to top-tier healthcare facilities while retaining their basic plan. Premiums and co-payments will increase as the coverage expands, with additional fees for in-patient services and one-day procedures. Holders of the basic plan will now have to pay Dh200 per service.
From July 1, social media influencers in the UAE must obtain a license from the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development to advertise brands or businesses. Those found advertising without a license may face fines up to Dh10,000 and potential closure of their company. The licensing fee is Dh1,250 for individuals and Dh5,000 for companies, with exemptions for non-commercial posts.
Residents in Ajman will now have access to information about their building’s compliance with standards and regulations through a new building classification system. Over a three-month period, buildings will be classified according to international criteria, with results displayed transparently in an electronic system for residents to access. Field visits will be conducted to ensure accuracy in classification.
