The "Positive List" has been officially published

On 17 March 2020, the UAE issued Cabinet Resolution No.(16) of 2020, setting out the 'Positive List of Economic Sectors and Activities in which Foreign Direct Investment is Permitted.' It became effective on 31 March 2020.

122 economic activities are specified in the "Positive List, including activities in the following sectors: agriculture; manufacturing; transport and storage; hospitality and food services; information and communications; science and technology; healthcare; education; art and entertainment; and construction. The "Positive List" Resolution also provides, on a case by case basis, minimum share capital requirements to be met by companies that are or become fully owned by Foreign Investors and are licensed to carry on activities contained in the "Positive List". The List also imposes other requirements that will need to be satisfied by Foreign Investors in relation to certain activities.

• Type:

  • Entry and establishment (Ownership and control)

• Industry:

  • Primary (Agriculture, forestry and fishing)
  • Manufacturing
  • Services (Construction, Transportation and storage, Accommodation and food service activities, Telecommunications, Scientific research and development, Education, Human health activities, Arts, entertainment and recreation)

• Sources:

  • Ministry of Economy, Cabinet Resolution No. 16 of 2020 , https://www.economy.gov.ae/Documents/Cabinet%20Resolution%2016%20Concerning%20the%20Determination%20of%20the%20Positive%20List.pdf, 31 Mar 2020
  • Clyde & Co, UAE FDI Law: Positive List, https://www.clydeco.com/insight/article/uae-fdi-law-positive-list, 13 Apr 2020