Effective December 7, 2022, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has acceded to the Convention Abolishing the Requirements of Legalization for Foreign Public Documents, popularly known as the “Apostille Convention.” The move is part of the Saudi government’s ongoing efforts to promote the flexibility of the private sector and make it easier for foreign companies to do business in the country. Specifically, in accordance with Royal Decree M/40 dated 26/05/1443H (corresponding to 30/12/2021G), the country’s prior legalization requirements for foreign-issued public documents have been eliminated. With this decree, Saudi Arabia becomes the 122nd member of the Apostille Convention, joining other Middle East and North African countries including Bahrain, Oman, Morocco, and Tunisia.Continue Reading Saudi Arabia Joins Apostille Convention

The United Arab Emirates’ (“UAE”) most recent five-year multiple entry visa was launched by the Dubai General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (“GDRFA“) on November 22, 2021 aiming to create flexibility for professionals, especially the employees of multinational companies.  The new visa scheme allows foreign employees to visit their employer in the UAE

As of September 15, 2020, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior has lifted certain international travel restrictions on citizens of the Gulf Cooperation Council states as well as expatriates and their dependents that hold a valid visa.  Individuals who seek to re-enter the Kingdom are still required to meet all COVID-19 safety measures upon entrance, such

Automatic Extensions Benefiting Foreign Nationals

The United Arab Emirates (“UAE”) Cabinet has approved certain new decisions in relation to the extension of several existing permits as the country steps up precautionary measures to contain the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Continue Reading New COVID-19 Measures by the United Arab Emirates