construction lawUnderstanding the UAE’s Construction Industry Payment Security Legislation

14/04/2024by Hossam Zakaria0

Table of Contents

“Ensuring payment security in the UAE’s construction industry.”

Introduction

Understanding the UAE’s Construction Industry Payment Security Legislation is crucial for all stakeholders involved in construction projects in the country. This legislation aims to ensure timely and secure payments for contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers, ultimately promoting a more transparent and efficient construction industry. In this article, we will explore the key aspects of the UAE’s payment security legislation and its implications for construction professionals.

Importance of Payment Security Legislation in the UAE Construction Industry

The construction industry in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a vital sector that contributes significantly to the country’s economy. With numerous large-scale projects underway, it is essential to ensure that all parties involved in construction projects are protected financially. Payment security legislation plays a crucial role in safeguarding the interests of contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers in the UAE construction industry.

One of the primary reasons why payment security legislation is essential in the UAE construction industry is to prevent payment disputes and delays. Construction projects involve multiple parties, including contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, and consultants. Without proper payment security measures in place, there is a risk of payment disputes arising, which can lead to delays in project completion and financial losses for all parties involved.

Furthermore, payment security legislation helps to ensure that all parties are paid in a timely manner for the work they have completed or the materials they have supplied. This is particularly important for subcontractors and suppliers who may not have direct contracts with the project owner. By having payment security measures in place, subcontractors and suppliers can have peace of mind knowing that they will be compensated for their work and materials.

In addition to preventing payment disputes and delays, payment security legislation also helps to improve cash flow in the construction industry. Timely payments enable contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers to meet their financial obligations, pay their employees, and invest in future projects. This, in turn, helps to sustain the growth and development of the construction industry in the UAE.

Another important aspect of payment security legislation in the UAE construction industry is the protection of subcontractors and suppliers from non-payment or insolvency of the main contractor. In some cases, main contractors may default on their payment obligations, leaving subcontractors and suppliers in a vulnerable position. Payment security measures such as retention bonds, advance payment guarantees, and performance bonds help to mitigate the risk of non-payment or insolvency, providing subcontractors and suppliers with a level of financial protection.

Moreover, payment security legislation promotes transparency and accountability in the construction industry. By requiring parties to adhere to specific payment terms and procedures, payment security measures help to create a level playing field for all stakeholders. This fosters trust and confidence among parties involved in construction projects, ultimately leading to smoother project execution and better outcomes for all.

In conclusion, payment security legislation is of paramount importance in the UAE construction industry. It serves to prevent payment disputes and delays, improve cash flow, protect subcontractors and suppliers, promote transparency and accountability, and ultimately contribute to the overall success of construction projects in the country. By understanding and adhering to payment security legislation, all parties involved in the construction industry can ensure a fair and equitable payment process, leading to a more efficient and sustainable construction sector in the UAE.

Overview of Payment Security Laws in the UAE

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has seen a rapid growth in its construction industry over the past few decades, with numerous high-rise buildings, infrastructure projects, and mega developments transforming the landscape of the country. With this growth, however, comes the need for robust legislation to ensure that all parties involved in construction projects are protected and paid in a timely manner.

One of the key aspects of this legislation is payment security laws, which are designed to safeguard the rights of contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers by ensuring that they are paid for the work they have completed. In the UAE, payment security laws are governed by Federal Law No. 6 of 2018 on the Regulation of the Relationship between Landlords and Tenants in the Emirate of Dubai, as well as other relevant regulations and decrees issued by the respective emirates.

These laws outline the rights and obligations of all parties involved in a construction project, including developers, contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers. They establish clear guidelines for payment terms, dispute resolution mechanisms, and penalties for non-compliance. By providing a legal framework for payment security, these laws help to minimize the risk of non-payment and ensure that all parties are treated fairly and equitably.

One of the key provisions of the UAE’s payment security laws is the requirement for parties to enter into written contracts that clearly outline the terms and conditions of the project, including payment schedules, milestones, and dispute resolution mechanisms. These contracts help to prevent misunderstandings and disputes by ensuring that all parties are aware of their rights and obligations from the outset.

In addition to written contracts, the UAE’s payment security laws also require parties to provide security for payment in the form of performance bonds, advance payment guarantees, or retention amounts. These security measures help to protect the interests of contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers by ensuring that they will be paid for the work they have completed, even in the event of a dispute or insolvency.

Furthermore, the UAE’s payment security laws establish clear procedures for resolving payment disputes, including the submission of claims, negotiation, mediation, and arbitration. These mechanisms help to expedite the resolution of disputes and ensure that all parties have access to a fair and impartial process for resolving payment issues.

Overall, the UAE’s construction industry payment security legislation plays a crucial role in ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of construction projects in the country. By providing a legal framework for payment security, these laws help to protect the rights of contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers, minimize the risk of non-payment, and promote a fair and transparent construction industry.

In conclusion, understanding the UAE’s construction industry payment security legislation is essential for all parties involved in construction projects in the country. By familiarizing themselves with the relevant laws and regulations, contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers can protect their interests, ensure timely payment for their work, and contribute to the continued growth and success of the UAE’s construction industry.

Impact of Payment Security Legislation on Construction Projects

The construction industry in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a vital sector that contributes significantly to the country’s economy. With numerous large-scale projects underway, it is essential to ensure that all parties involved in these projects are protected financially. Payment security legislation plays a crucial role in safeguarding the interests of contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers in the construction industry.

One of the key aspects of payment security legislation in the UAE is the requirement for timely payments. Delays in payments can have a significant impact on the cash flow of construction companies, leading to financial difficulties and potentially causing delays in project completion. By enforcing strict timelines for payments, the legislation aims to ensure that all parties are paid promptly for the work they have completed.

Another important feature of payment security legislation in the UAE is the requirement for written contracts. These contracts outline the terms and conditions of the project, including payment schedules, milestones, and dispute resolution mechanisms. By having a written contract in place, all parties are clear about their rights and obligations, reducing the likelihood of disputes arising during the course of the project.

In addition to timely payments and written contracts, payment security legislation in the UAE also includes provisions for dispute resolution mechanisms. In the event of a payment dispute, parties can seek recourse through mediation, arbitration, or litigation. These mechanisms provide a structured process for resolving disputes, ensuring that all parties have a fair opportunity to present their case and reach a resolution.

The implementation of payment security legislation has had a positive impact on construction projects in the UAE. Contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers now have greater confidence in the payment process, knowing that they are protected by law. This has led to improved relationships between parties, reduced disputes, and increased efficiency in project delivery.

Furthermore, payment security legislation has also helped to attract foreign investment in the UAE’s construction industry. International companies are more willing to participate in projects knowing that their financial interests are protected by robust legislation. This has led to an influx of expertise and technology into the sector, driving innovation and growth.

Despite the benefits of payment security legislation, there are still challenges that need to be addressed. One of the main issues is the enforcement of payment terms, particularly for smaller contractors and subcontractors. Some companies may still face delays in payments or disputes with clients, leading to financial strain and potential project delays.

To address these challenges, the UAE government is continuously reviewing and updating its payment security legislation. By introducing new measures to enhance payment security and streamline dispute resolution processes, the government aims to create a more transparent and efficient construction industry that benefits all stakeholders.

In conclusion, payment security legislation plays a crucial role in protecting the financial interests of contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers in the UAE’s construction industry. By ensuring timely payments, written contracts, and effective dispute resolution mechanisms, the legislation has helped to improve relationships between parties, attract foreign investment, and drive innovation in the sector. While challenges remain, the government’s commitment to enhancing payment security legislation will continue to strengthen the construction industry and support its growth in the years to come.

Key Provisions of Payment Security Laws in the UAE

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has seen significant growth in its construction industry over the past few decades. With numerous high-rise buildings, infrastructure projects, and mega developments, the construction sector plays a crucial role in the country’s economy. However, with growth comes challenges, and one of the key issues faced by the industry is payment security.

In response to the payment disputes and delays that have plagued the construction sector, the UAE government has introduced legislation to protect the rights of contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers. These laws aim to ensure that all parties involved in a construction project are paid in a timely manner for the work they have completed or the materials they have supplied.

One of the key provisions of the payment security laws in the UAE is the requirement for parties to enter into written contracts that clearly outline the terms of payment. These contracts must specify the payment schedule, the amount due at each stage of the project, and the consequences of late payment. By having a written agreement in place, all parties are aware of their rights and obligations, which helps to prevent disputes from arising.

Another important provision of the payment security laws is the requirement for parties to issue payment certificates. These certificates are issued by the engineer or consultant overseeing the project and certify that the work has been completed to the required standard. Once a payment certificate has been issued, the party responsible for making the payment must do so within a specified timeframe, typically within 30 days.

In cases where payment is not made on time, the payment security laws provide mechanisms for parties to enforce their rights. For example, a contractor or subcontractor who has not been paid may issue a notice of non-payment to the party responsible for making the payment. If the payment is still not forthcoming, the unpaid party may suspend work on the project or terminate the contract altogether.

The payment security laws also provide for the resolution of disputes through arbitration or other alternative dispute resolution mechanisms. This helps to ensure that payment disputes are resolved quickly and fairly, without the need for lengthy and costly court proceedings. By having a clear process in place for resolving disputes, parties can have confidence that their rights will be protected and that they will receive the payment they are owed.

Overall, the payment security laws in the UAE are designed to create a fair and transparent payment process for all parties involved in the construction industry. By requiring written contracts, payment certificates, and dispute resolution mechanisms, these laws help to protect the rights of contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers and ensure that they are paid in a timely manner for their work. Understanding and complying with these laws is essential for all parties involved in the construction sector to ensure a smooth and successful project delivery.

Challenges Faced by Contractors in Ensuring Payment Security

Understanding the UAE’s Construction Industry Payment Security Legislation
The construction industry in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a vital sector that contributes significantly to the country’s economy. However, like in many other countries, contractors in the UAE face challenges when it comes to ensuring payment security. This is particularly important in the construction industry, where projects can be complex and involve multiple parties.

One of the main challenges faced by contractors in the UAE is late payments. Delays in payments can have a significant impact on a contractor’s cash flow, making it difficult for them to meet their financial obligations and continue operating efficiently. Late payments can also lead to disputes between parties involved in a construction project, which can further delay payments and disrupt the project timeline.

Another challenge faced by contractors in the UAE is the lack of transparency in payment processes. In some cases, contractors may not have clear visibility into when they can expect to receive payments for their work. This lack of transparency can make it difficult for contractors to plan their finances and allocate resources effectively.

Furthermore, contractors in the UAE may also face challenges when it comes to enforcing payment terms and recovering unpaid invoices. The legal process for recovering unpaid debts can be time-consuming and costly, which can further strain a contractor’s finances. This can be particularly challenging for smaller contractors who may not have the resources to pursue legal action against non-paying clients.

To address these challenges, the UAE has implemented legislation aimed at improving payment security in the construction industry. One of the key pieces of legislation is the UAE Construction Industry Payment Security Law, which was introduced in 2018. This law aims to regulate payment processes in the construction industry and ensure that contractors are paid in a timely manner for their work.

Under the UAE Construction Industry Payment Security Law, parties involved in a construction project are required to adhere to specific payment terms and timelines. For example, contractors are entitled to receive interim payments at regular intervals throughout the project, based on the work completed. This helps to ensure that contractors have a steady cash flow and can meet their financial obligations.

The law also provides mechanisms for resolving payment disputes between parties involved in a construction project. In the event of a dispute, parties can refer the matter to a dispute resolution committee, which will work to resolve the issue in a timely manner. This helps to prevent disputes from escalating and delaying payments to contractors.

Overall, the UAE’s Construction Industry Payment Security Law has been instrumental in improving payment security for contractors in the construction industry. By providing clear guidelines and mechanisms for resolving payment disputes, the law helps to ensure that contractors are paid in a timely manner for their work. This, in turn, helps to improve cash flow, reduce disputes, and promote a more efficient and transparent payment process in the construction industry.

Role of Government Authorities in Enforcing Payment Security Legislation

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has seen significant growth in its construction industry over the past few decades, with numerous high-rise buildings, infrastructure projects, and mega developments transforming the landscape of the country. With this growth, however, comes the need for robust legislation to ensure that all parties involved in construction projects are paid in a timely manner and that disputes are resolved fairly and efficiently.

One of the key aspects of ensuring payment security in the construction industry is the role of government authorities in enforcing relevant legislation. In the UAE, the primary authority responsible for overseeing construction projects and enforcing payment security legislation is the Ministry of Infrastructure Development. This ministry plays a crucial role in regulating the construction industry, ensuring that all parties adhere to the relevant laws and regulations.

The Ministry of Infrastructure Development works closely with other government authorities, such as the Ministry of Economy and the Ministry of Justice, to ensure that payment security legislation is effectively enforced. These authorities work together to monitor construction projects, investigate any complaints or disputes, and take appropriate action to ensure that all parties are paid fairly and on time.

One of the key tools that government authorities use to enforce payment security legislation is the issuance of payment guarantees. These guarantees are typically required by contractors and subcontractors to ensure that they will be paid for their work. If a party fails to make a payment as required by the contract, the guarantee can be called upon to ensure that the unpaid party receives the money they are owed.

In addition to payment guarantees, government authorities also have the power to impose penalties on parties that fail to comply with payment security legislation. These penalties can include fines, suspension of licenses, or even criminal charges in cases of serious non-compliance. By imposing these penalties, government authorities send a clear message that payment security is a top priority in the construction industry and that all parties must adhere to the relevant laws and regulations.

Government authorities also play a crucial role in resolving disputes that arise in the construction industry. In many cases, disputes over payment can lead to delays in projects, cost overruns, and damage to relationships between parties. To address these issues, government authorities have established specialized tribunals and courts to handle construction disputes quickly and fairly.

These tribunals and courts have the power to issue binding decisions on payment disputes, ensuring that all parties are treated fairly and that disputes are resolved in a timely manner. By providing a clear and efficient mechanism for resolving disputes, government authorities help to maintain the integrity of the construction industry and ensure that projects are completed successfully.

In conclusion, the role of government authorities in enforcing payment security legislation is crucial to the success of the construction industry in the UAE. By working together to monitor projects, issue payment guarantees, impose penalties, and resolve disputes, these authorities help to ensure that all parties are paid fairly and on time. This, in turn, helps to maintain the integrity of the construction industry and promote continued growth and development in the UAE.

Comparison of Payment Security Laws in the UAE with Other Countries

The construction industry is a vital sector in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), contributing significantly to the country’s economic growth and development. With numerous construction projects taking place across the UAE, it is essential to have robust payment security legislation in place to protect the rights of all parties involved in construction contracts. In this article, we will explore the payment security laws in the UAE and compare them with those in other countries.

In the UAE, the primary legislation governing payment security in the construction industry is Federal Law No. 6 of 2018 on the Regulation of the Relationship between the Contractor and the Developer in the Construction Sector (the “Construction Law”). This law aims to ensure timely payments to contractors and subcontractors by establishing clear payment mechanisms and procedures. Under the Construction Law, developers are required to make payments to contractors within a specified timeframe, failing which penalties may be imposed.

One of the key features of the Construction Law is the requirement for developers to issue payment guarantees in favor of contractors. These guarantees serve as a form of security for contractors, ensuring that they will be paid for the work they have completed. In the event of non-payment, contractors can invoke these guarantees to recover their dues. This provision helps to mitigate the risk of non-payment and provides contractors with a level of financial security.

In comparison, other countries also have payment security legislation in place to protect the interests of contractors and subcontractors in the construction industry. For example, in the United Kingdom, the Housing Grants, Construction and Regeneration Act 1996 (the “Construction Act”) sets out rules for payment in construction contracts. The Construction Act requires parties to adhere to specific payment terms and procedures, including the provision of payment notices and pay less notices.

Similarly, in the United States, the Miller Act requires prime contractors on federal construction projects to provide payment bonds to subcontractors and suppliers. These payment bonds serve as a guarantee that subcontractors and suppliers will be paid for the work they have performed. If a subcontractor or supplier is not paid, they can make a claim against the payment bond to recover their dues.

While the UAE’s Construction Law and the payment security laws in other countries share common objectives of ensuring timely payments and protecting the rights of contractors and subcontractors, there are differences in the specific provisions and mechanisms employed. For example, the UAE’s requirement for developers to issue payment guarantees is unique to the country and provides an additional layer of security for contractors.

Overall, payment security legislation plays a crucial role in the construction industry, helping to maintain trust and confidence among parties involved in construction contracts. By establishing clear payment mechanisms and procedures, these laws help to prevent disputes and ensure that all parties are fairly compensated for their work. As the construction industry continues to grow in the UAE and around the world, it is essential for stakeholders to be aware of the payment security laws in place and to comply with their requirements to promote a fair and transparent construction environment.

Best Practices for Compliance with Payment Security Legislation

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has seen significant growth in its construction industry over the past few decades. With numerous projects underway and more in the pipeline, it is crucial for all stakeholders in the industry to understand and comply with the payment security legislation in place. This legislation is designed to protect the rights of contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers by ensuring timely and fair payment for their services and materials.

One of the key pieces of legislation governing payment security in the UAE is the Construction Industry Payment Security Act. This act sets out the rights and obligations of parties involved in construction projects, including developers, contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers. It establishes a framework for payment procedures, dispute resolution, and enforcement mechanisms to ensure that all parties are treated fairly and paid promptly for their work.

Under the Construction Industry Payment Security Act, parties are required to adhere to specific payment terms and procedures. For example, developers must issue payment certificates within a certain timeframe, and contractors must pay subcontractors within a specified period. Failure to comply with these requirements can result in penalties, including fines and suspension of work.

To ensure compliance with the payment security legislation, all parties involved in construction projects should adopt best practices. This includes maintaining accurate records of all payments and invoices, adhering to payment schedules, and resolving disputes promptly and amicably. By following these best practices, stakeholders can avoid potential legal issues and ensure smooth and efficient project delivery.

Another important aspect of compliance with payment security legislation is the use of payment security instruments, such as performance bonds and guarantees. These instruments provide financial security for parties involved in construction projects and help to mitigate the risk of non-payment. Developers may require contractors to provide performance bonds as a condition of the contract, while subcontractors may use guarantees to secure payment for their services.

In addition to payment security instruments, parties can also use alternative dispute resolution mechanisms to resolve payment disputes quickly and cost-effectively. Mediation and arbitration are commonly used in the construction industry to resolve disputes outside of the court system. These mechanisms allow parties to reach a mutually acceptable resolution without the need for lengthy and expensive litigation.

Overall, compliance with payment security legislation is essential for all stakeholders in the UAE’s construction industry. By understanding the requirements of the legislation, adopting best practices, and using payment security instruments and dispute resolution mechanisms, parties can protect their rights and ensure fair and timely payment for their work. Failure to comply with the legislation can result in legal consequences and damage to the reputation of the parties involved. Therefore, it is crucial for all stakeholders to prioritize compliance with payment security legislation to ensure the success of construction projects in the UAE.

Case Studies of Payment Disputes in the UAE Construction Industry

The construction industry in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a vital sector that contributes significantly to the country’s economy. However, like any other industry, the construction sector is not without its challenges. One of the most common issues faced by construction companies in the UAE is payment disputes. These disputes can arise due to various reasons, such as delays in project completion, changes in project scope, or disagreements over the quality of work.

To address these payment disputes and ensure fair and timely payments in the construction industry, the UAE government has implemented legislation to protect the rights of contractors and subcontractors. One such legislation is the UAE Construction Industry Payment Security Legislation, which aims to regulate payment practices in the construction sector and provide a mechanism for resolving payment disputes.

The UAE Construction Industry Payment Security Legislation requires that all construction contracts include provisions for timely payments to contractors and subcontractors. The legislation also mandates that payment disputes be resolved through a specific dispute resolution process, such as arbitration or mediation. By implementing these measures, the UAE government aims to promote transparency and fairness in the construction industry and ensure that all parties involved in a construction project are paid promptly for their work.

To better understand how the UAE Construction Industry Payment Security Legislation works in practice, let’s take a look at some case studies of payment disputes in the UAE construction industry.

Case Study 1: Delayed Payments

In one case, a subcontractor working on a large construction project in Dubai faced significant delays in receiving payments from the main contractor. The subcontractor had completed the work as per the agreed-upon schedule but was not paid on time, causing financial strain on their business. The subcontractor decided to file a complaint with the relevant authorities, citing the UAE Construction Industry Payment Security Legislation.

After reviewing the case, the authorities intervened and facilitated a negotiation between the subcontractor and the main contractor. Through this process, the parties were able to reach a settlement, and the subcontractor received the outstanding payments owed to them. This case demonstrates how the UAE Construction Industry Payment Security Legislation can be used to resolve payment disputes and ensure that contractors and subcontractors are paid in a timely manner.

Case Study 2: Disagreements over Work Quality

In another case, a contractor working on a residential construction project in Abu Dhabi raised concerns about the quality of work performed by a subcontractor. The contractor believed that the subcontractor had not met the agreed-upon standards and refused to release payment until the issue was resolved. The subcontractor, on the other hand, claimed that they had completed the work as per the contract and demanded payment for their services.

To resolve the dispute, the parties decided to engage in mediation as per the UAE Construction Industry Payment Security Legislation. During the mediation process, an independent mediator facilitated discussions between the contractor and subcontractor and helped them reach a compromise. Ultimately, the parties agreed on a revised payment schedule based on the quality of work performed, and the payment dispute was successfully resolved.

These case studies highlight the importance of the UAE Construction Industry Payment Security Legislation in ensuring fair and timely payments in the construction industry. By providing a legal framework for resolving payment disputes and promoting transparency in payment practices, the legislation helps to protect the rights of contractors and subcontractors and maintain the integrity of the construction sector in the UAE.

Future Trends in Payment Security Legislation for the UAE Construction Industry

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been experiencing rapid growth in its construction industry over the past few decades. With numerous high-rise buildings, infrastructure projects, and mega developments being built across the country, the construction sector has become a key driver of the UAE’s economy. However, with this growth comes the need for robust payment security legislation to protect the rights of all parties involved in construction projects.

In recent years, the UAE government has taken steps to address payment security issues in the construction industry. One of the key pieces of legislation introduced to improve payment security is the UAE Construction Trust Account Law. This law requires developers to deposit funds into a trust account for each construction project, which can only be accessed by contractors and subcontractors upon completion of specific milestones. This ensures that contractors and subcontractors are paid in a timely manner and helps prevent payment delays and disputes.

Another important development in payment security legislation in the UAE is the introduction of the Construction Industry Payment and Adjudication Law. This law provides a mechanism for resolving payment disputes in the construction industry through adjudication. Adjudication is a quick and cost-effective way to resolve payment disputes, allowing parties to seek a resolution without resorting to lengthy and expensive court proceedings.

The UAE government has also introduced the Construction Industry Payment Security Initiative, which aims to improve payment security in the construction industry by promoting best practices and standardizing payment processes. This initiative includes guidelines for payment terms, invoicing procedures, and dispute resolution mechanisms, helping to create a more transparent and efficient payment system in the construction industry.

Looking ahead, the future of payment security legislation in the UAE’s construction industry is likely to focus on further strengthening payment protection for contractors and subcontractors. One potential development could be the introduction of mandatory payment security mechanisms, such as performance bonds or payment guarantees, to ensure that contractors and subcontractors are paid for their work.

Additionally, there may be a greater emphasis on digital payment systems and electronic invoicing to streamline payment processes and reduce the risk of payment delays. The use of blockchain technology to create secure and transparent payment systems could also play a role in enhancing payment security in the construction industry.

Overall, the UAE’s construction industry payment security legislation is evolving to meet the needs of a growing and dynamic sector. By implementing robust payment security measures and promoting best practices, the UAE government is working to create a fair and efficient payment system that benefits all parties involved in construction projects. As the construction industry continues to grow, it is essential that payment security legislation keeps pace with these changes to ensure the continued success and sustainability of the sector.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the UAE’s construction industry payment security legislation is crucial for all stakeholders involved in construction projects to ensure fair and timely payments. This legislation helps protect the rights of contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers, ultimately promoting a more transparent and efficient construction industry in the UAE.