Introduction to UAE Law
Online or Mixed Format
June 17 – July 22 | Tuesdays, 19:00–21:00 MSK
Credit/No Credit
Course Objectives
This course provides a practical introduction to the legal environment of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), with a focus on challenges and opportunities for international—especially Russian—businesses. Students will gain foundational knowledge of the UAE’s hybrid legal system and understand how to navigate key corporate, tax, and dispute resolution frameworks relevant to foreign investors.
The Course Itself
Taught in a dynamic master class format, this course combines lectures, case discussions, and guest presentations by legal experts practicing in the UAE. The curriculum starts with an overview of the UAE legal system and progresses into practical issues such as operating in free zones, financial and tax structures, and recent legal reforms.
The course is co-led by:
- Igor Kuznetsov, currently in-house counsel for a major telecommunications company in Dubai, brings a corporate perspective shaped by years of hands-on experience advising multinational businesses in the Gulf region. Igor has also been a trusted member of the Pericles teaching team, having served as a Teaching Assistant in Approaching Legal English and as an Assistant Professor in the Pericles Jessup Summer School, where he was known for his clarity and practical teaching style.
- Dmitry Mednikov is a dual-qualified lawyer (U.K. solicitor and Russian advocate) and a dispute resolution associate at Habib Al Mulla and Partners, one of the leading law firms in the UAE. Based in Dubai, Dmitry works on complex commercial disputes, including arbitration and cross-border litigation, and advises international clients on navigating regulatory and legal challenges in the UAE. His active practice ensures students receive current and practical insights into how UAE law operates in real business settings.
When possible, one or two classes may also be offered in a bimodal format from Pericles in Moscow.
Subjects to be Covered
Business Formation and Licensing: Step-by-step guidance on establishing businesses in the UAE mainland vs. free zones, including legal documentation and licensing requirements.
UAE Free Zones: Legal advantages, regulatory differences, and how free zones operate as gateways for international companies.
Corporate Governance and Compliance: Key rules governing companies, shareholder rights, board responsibilities, and regulatory reporting obligations.
Tax and Financial Regulation: Overview of VAT, corporate tax developments, and financial transparency measures affecting international investors.
Contracts and Commercial Law: Core contract principles under UAE law, enforceability of agreements, and key risks for foreign parties.
Dispute Resolution: Litigation, arbitration (including DIAC and DIFC-LCIA), and the interplay between local and international dispute forums.
Recent Legal Reforms: Updates on business law changes aimed at improving foreign investment climate, including labor law reforms, company ownership rules, and court modernization.
Practical Case Examples: Common legal pitfalls for foreign businesses, with real-life case studies drawn from the instructors’ professional experience.
Prerequisite
No formal prerequisites.
You must be able to understand and use English at an intermediate level. To assess your level of English, please complete our English Test, which is available in your student account after registration.
The course is suitable for legal professionals, businesspeople, and students with an interest in international commercial law and the UAE region.
Course Length
6 weeks (12 total contact hours)
June 17 to July 22
Tuesdays, 19:00–21:00 Moscow Time
Methodology
Classes are conducted in English using an interactive master class format, supported by guest speakers from leading UAE legal institutions and firms.
Course Materials
All readings and materials will be provided electronically through Moodle. Supplementary resources may include UAE legal codes, regulatory guidance, and selected case studies.
Credit & Certification
This is a credit/no credit course.
To receive a certificate, students must either attend all classes or successfully complete all computer-graded Moodle assignments (up to 2 absences allowed if assignments are completed).