6 Major Updates in UAE Impacting Daily Life from June 1
Legal changes and service updates in UAE include VAT, wage rules, parking fee hikes, and passport centres.
Starting June, UAE residents should expect some important updates affecting their daily lives. From legal changes to adjustments in services, these updates might have a big impact on areas like transport and the job sector.
Here are six major changes to look out for, so you can plan ahead:
1. Legal Age Reduced
The UAE's legal age is being reduced from 21 lunar years to 18 Gregorian years. This means individuals aged 18 now have full legal responsibility. They can:
- Sign contracts independently
- Manage their assets
- Litigate or be sued
- Make personal financial and legal decisions
This aligns UAE laws with global standards and will make international legal matters clearer. Families should focus on educating their children about important topics like property and finance. Courts will still oversee cases to ensure legal safeguards are in place if needed.
2. Parking Fees Increase
Dubai parking services will include a 5% VAT starting June 1. This affects on-street and off-street parking, seasonal cards, permits, and reservations. Motorists should budget for higher transport costs due to the VAT implementation.
3. New Wage Protection System Rule
From June, salaries in the private sector must be paid no later than the first day of the following Gregorian month. Late payments will be flagged. Companies need to use approved payment systems and confirm salary transactions through official documentation. The rule requires at least 85% of wages to be paid by the deadline to avoid penalties.
4. Salik Toll VAT
Salik toll tariffs and the activation fee will include a 5% VAT starting June 1. The fee structure remains the same, but VAT is now applied as required by regulations.
5. New Indian Passport Centres
Alhind Group is opening 16 new centres across the UAE for Consular, Passport, and Visa (CPV) services for Indian nationals. Offices are expected to be functional by mid-June, with services starting officially in July. Services include passport and visa processing, Police Clearance Certificates, attestation, and more.
6. Cash Payments for Parking Phased Out
Dubai will start phasing out cash payments for parking metres from June 1. Drivers can use Nol cards, mobile apps like Parkin, RTA, and Dubai Now, which simplify the payment process and avoid extra fees associated with SMS payments.
AI contributed to the creation of this article.