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In effectCabinet Resolution

UAE Corporate / Commercial LawCabinet Resolution No. (59) of 2026 Regarding the Executive Regulations of Federal Decree by Law No. (36) of 2023 Regarding the Regulation of Competition

UAE Federal Decree-Law·Cabinet Resolution No. (59) of 2026

قرار مجلس الوزراء بشأن اللائحة التنفيذية للمرسوم بقانون اتحادي في شأن تنظيم المنافسة

Authoritative Arabic version per the official UAE Legislation portal

Issued Date
April 20, 2026
Effective from
July 30, 2026
Articles
34
Last synced
Jul 6, 2026

Plain-language summary

  • Sets detailed rules for how competition law works across UAE.
  • Applies to all businesses and individuals competing in UAE markets.
  • Prohibits unfair practices like price-fixing and market monopolies.
  • Establishes procedures for reporting and investigating competition violations.
  • Defines penalties and enforcement actions for breaking competition rules.

Synced from the official UAE Legislation portal · Plain-language summary by the LEXAI editorial team

Article-level text

Key Articles

34 articles

  1. 1

    Article 1

    Article (1) Definitions The definitions set forth in Federal Decree by Law No. (36) of 2023 Regarding the Regulation of Competition shall apply to this Resolution. Save as otherwise provided therein, the following expressions shall have the meanings assigned to each of them, unless the context requires otherwise: Decree by Law : Federal Decree by Law No. (36) of 2023 Regarding the Regulation of Competition. Parties to the Economic Concentration : The Undertakings participating, or intending to participate, in an Economic Concentration transaction.

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    Cabinet Resolution of 2026 Regarding the Executive Regulations of Federal Decree by Law of 2023 Regarding the Regulation of Competition 2 Interested Parties to the Economic Concentration : The parties affected by the Economic Concentration, including competitors, customers, suppliers, distributors, and stakeholders.

  2. 2

    Article 2

    Article (2) Controls for Determining the Ability of a Dominant Position to Exercise Influence Likely to Cause Harm in the Relevant Market 1. Subject to Article (6) of the Decree by Law, a Dominant Position shall be established through the Undertaking's ability to exercise influence likely to cause harm in the Relevant Market, as follows: a. The existence of strong indicators demonstrating the Undertaking's technological superiority, business model, significance of its financial resources, or geographical concentration, enabling it to impose conditions and exercise control over the Relevant Market in a manner affecting competition. The mere benefit derived by Undertakings from technological superiority resulting from innovation, investment, research, or development shall not, in itself, constitute a Dominant Position unless accompanied by an ability to influence the market in a manner that harms competition or restricts market entry or consumer choice. Any conduct resulting in the reduction of available choices or the imposition of unfair prices shall constitute an abusive practice and a violation of the provisions of the Decree by Law. b. The existence of strong indicators demonstrating the Undertaking's ability to operate independently of market pressures, including pressures exerted by existing or potential competitors, customers, or consumers, thereby reducing the effectiveness of competition. c. The inability of competitors to limit or counteract the Undertaking's influence in the market in a manner that prevents the maintenance of an effective level of competition within the market. d. The possibility that the Undertaking, by virtue of its market position, may impede, restrict, or distort competition in the Relevant Market, thereby reflecting the absence of effective constraints upon it.

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    Cabinet Resolution of 2026 Regarding the Executive Regulations of Federal Decree by Law of 2023 Regarding the Regulation of Competition 3 e. The extent to which the Undertaking's practices, Agreements, or Economic Concentration transactions affect consumer choice and the quality, availability, and fair pricing of products or services. Practices that restrict such choices or result in the imposition of unfair prices shall be deemed prejudicial to competition and in violation of the provisions of the Decree by Law. 2. An Undertaking's ability to exercise influence within the Relevant Market shall be inferred from one or more of the following factors: a. The significance of the Undertaking's market share in the Relevant Market, even where such share does not exceed the percentage referred to in Paragraph (a) of Clause (2) of

  3. 3

    Article 3

    Article (3) Controls Governing the Prohibition of Offering or Applying Predatory Prices 1. For the purposes of Clause (1) of Article (8) of the Decree by Law, the controls governing the prohibition of offering or applying predatory selling prices to consumers shall be as follows: a. Prices falling below the average variable cost or marginal cost shall be deemed predatory, unless the Undertaking is able to demonstrate that such pricing is justified by legitimate economic reasons unrelated to eliminating, restricting, or preventing competition. b. Prices exceeding the average variable cost or marginal cost, but remaining below the average total cost, shall be deemed predatory where clear evidence exists of an anti- competitive plan or intent aimed at eliminating a competitor, restricting its activities, or preventing its entry into the market. 2. The Ministry or the Concerned Authority, as the case may be, shall assess and prohibit predatory pricing after considering the controls referred to in Clause (1) of this Article and the extent of their impact on the market and the freedom of competition, on a case-by- case basis and in accordance with the following discretionary criteria: a. Assessing whether the Undertaking engaging predatory pricing holds a Dominant Position in the Relevant Market, given that predatory pricing may constitute an abuse of a Dominant Position. b. Comparing the prices offered by the Undertaking with the prices of similar or substitute products or services in the Relevant Market. c. Comparing the prices offered by the Undertaking with the costs of producing, processing, marketing, or distributing products, or providing services, in the Relevant Market. d. Verifying whether the prices offered, together with other objective factors, indicate that their purpose or effect is any of the following: 1. Excluding existing or potential competition in the Relevant Market, or in a substantial part thereof. 2. Preventing the entry or expansion of competitors.

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    Cabinet Resolution of 2026 Regarding the Executive Regulations of Federal Decree by Law of 2023 Regarding the Regulation of Competition 5 3. Disciplining existing competitors. e. Considering the extent to which the Undertaking is capable of increasing its selling prices after a specified period following the exclusion, disciplining, or deterrence of its competitors, provided that the Ministry or the Concerned Authority, as the case may be, shall determine the appropriate period in accordance with the nature of the Relevant Market. f. When assessing predatory prices, the Ministry or the Concerned Authority, as the case may be, shall take into account the potential future impact on consumers, including the risk of monopolization and the possibility of subsequently increasing prices in a manner that reduces the choices available to consumers or imposes unfair prices upon them. g. Assessing the duration of the application of predatory pricing, the extent to which such pricing is applied to all products or services, specific customers, or particular geographical areas, and the causal link between such pricing and the achievement of any of the outcomes provided for in this Article. h. Considering any objective and legitimate commercial justifications submitted by the Undertaking for the predatory pricing, including: 1. Promotional or introductory offers for new products or services. 2. Seasonal offers. 3. Clearance of obsolete or perishable inventory. 4. Matching a competitor's price (within the framework of legitimate competition). 5. Achieving genuine cost efficiencies by the Undertaking.

  4. 4

    Article 4

    Article (4) Documents and Controls Relating to Exemption Notifications 1. For the purposes of Clause (2) of Article (9) of the Decree by Law, Undertakings wishing to obtain an exemption for their Agreements or practices from the application of Articles (5), (6), (7), and (8) of the Decree by Law shall attach to the notification submitted to the Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, the following documents:

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    Cabinet Resolution of 2026 Regarding the Executive Regulations of Federal Decree by Law of 2023 Regarding the Regulation of Competition 6 a. A copy of the Agreements for which exemption is sought, or a written description of the practices for which exemption is sought, as the case may be. b. A detailed written description of the products or services related to the Agreements or practices. c. The memorandum of association or articles of association of the concerned Undertaking. d. A copy of the business license of the concerned Undertaking. e. The audited financial statements of the concerned Undertaking for the last three (3) financial years preceding the date of submission of the application. f. Identification of the headquarters and existing and future branches of the concerned Undertaking within the State, if any. g. A written report on the economic dimensions of the exemption application, including a study of the Relevant Market affected by the Agreements or practices forming the subject matter of the exemption application, with particular reference to their positive effects on the market. h. A detailed report establishing that the Agreements or practices forming the subject matter of the exemption application are necessary to promote economic development, improve the Undertaking's performance and competitiveness, enhance production or distribution systems, or achieve specific benefits for consumers. i. The total sales of the concerned Undertaking in the Relevant Market(s) within the State during the last three (3) financial years preceding the date of submission of the application. j. A statement setting out the names of the shareholders or partners of the concerned Undertaking, as the case may be, together with the percentage of their shares or stakes. k. A list of the names of the members of the board of directors, board of managers, or manager, as the case may be. 2. For the purposes of Clause (5) of Article (9) of the Decree by Law, the controls governing exemption notifications shall be as follows: a. The notification and the documents attached thereto shall be submitted to the Ministry or the Concerned Authority, as the case may be, by the concerned

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    Cabinet Resolution of 2026 Regarding the Executive Regulations of Federal Decree by Law of 2023 Regarding the Regulation of Competition 7 Undertaking, signed by its legal representatives pursuant to a duly authenticated special power of attorney, and accompanied by proof of payment of the fees relating to the exemption application, if any. b. Where the practices or Agreements that are the subject matter of the exemption application involve more than one Undertaking, one Undertaking may submit the notification on behalf of the other concerned Undertakings, provided that it is duly authorized thereby in accordance with the controls stipulated in Paragraph (a) of this Clause. c. The notification may be submitted by electronic mail or through any other means specified by the Ministry or the Concerned Authority, as the case may be. d. The notification shall be submitted in either Arabic or English. The data and documents attached thereto shall be submitted in the language in which they were originally prepared, together with a translation into English or Arabic where they have been prepared in another language. e. Undertakings wishing the data contained in the notification and documents to be treated as confidential information shall mark such data and documents as “Confidential” and shall submit non-confidential summaries sufficient to enable an adequate understanding of the content of the confidential information, which shall be marked “Non-Confidential”. f. The concerned Undertaking shall submit a written undertaking not to engage in the practices or Agreements that are the subject matter of the exemption application until the issuance of the reasoned decision by the Minister, based on the recommendation of the Committee, in accordance with Article (10) and Clause (4) of Article (17) of the Decree by Law.

  5. 5

    Article 5

    Article (5) Examination of the Exemption Notification 1. The Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, shall examine the notification as follows:

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    Cabinet Resolution of 2026 Regarding the Executive Regulations of Federal Decree by Law of 2023 Regarding the Regulation of Competition 8 a. Conducting a formal examination of the notification and the documents submitted pursuant to Article (4) of this Resolution within ten (10) working days, and upon the completion of which a notice shall be issued to the concerned Undertakings confirming that the formal examination of the exemption application has been completed. b. Conducting a substantive review of the application for approval of the exemption in accordance with Article (6) of this Resolution within forty (40) working days, extendable for a further ten (10) working days, in order to assess the extent to which the concerned Undertakings have complied with the following procedures: 1. Providing prior notification to the Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, of the Agreements or practices for which exemption is sought. 2. Demonstrating that such Agreements or practices satisfy the requirements referred to in Clause (1) of Article (9) of the Decree by Law. 2. When examining the application for approval of the exemption, the Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, may require the concerned Undertakings or other concerned parties to provide any additional data or information it deems necessary for deciding on the application. 3. The Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, may require parties that it considers likely to be affected by the exemption to submit their views and supporting information regarding the exemption application within a period not exceeding fifteen (15) working days from the date on which they are notified. 4. The competent organizational unit within the Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, shall: a. Prepare a report concerning the application for approval of the exemption, setting out all facts and procedures relating thereto, the data upon which it is based, and a legal and economic assessment thereof, particularly with regard to its effects on the level of competition in the Relevant Market, together with a recommendation regarding the proposed decision on the application.

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    Cabinet Resolution of 2026 Regarding the Executive Regulations of Federal Decree by Law of 2023 Regarding the Regulation of Competition 9 b. Submit the report prepared pursuant to Paragraph (a) of this Clause to the Committee, which shall in turn submit its recommendations regarding the granting of the exemption to the Minister, the decision-making authority within the Concerned Authority or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, or any person authorized by any of them, within a period not exceeding fifteen (15) working days from the date of receipt of the report.

  6. 6

    Article 6

    Article (6) of the Decree by Law; b. The significance of the Undertaking's sales within the domestic market, whether in terms of volume, customer dependence, or economic weight; c. The Undertaking's economic or market power in the Relevant Market, including its financial capability or strategic market position; d. The Undertaking's activities in multiple markets or adjacent markets, where such presence strengthens its influence in the Relevant Market; e. The extent of actual or potential competition within the Relevant Market and its ability to constrain the Undertaking's conduct; f. The availability and substitutability of alternative products or services within the Relevant Market; g. The Undertaking's pricing conduct compared with market benchmarks, where such conduct reflects pricing power rather than normal market responses; h. The existence of barriers to entry into, or exit from, the Relevant Market, including structural, legal, or economic barriers; and i. The existence of exclusive or long-term relationships with customers or suppliers that may contribute to strengthening the Undertaking's market power.

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    Cabinet Resolution of 2026 Regarding the Executive Regulations of Federal Decree by Law of 2023 Regarding the Regulation of Competition 4

  7. 6

    Article 6

    Article (6) Consideration of the Application for the Grant of an Exemption in Respect of Agreements or Practices 1. The Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, shall examine the Agreements or practices that are the subject matter of the application for approval of the grant of an exemption and assess the extent of their positive or negative impact on the overall balance of the Relevant Market and the proper functioning of its mechanisms in accordance with the principles of free competition. 2. Such Agreements or practices may be exempted from the prohibitions set out in the Decree by Law where it is clearly and substantially established that they enhance overall economic efficiencies in a manner that benefits the broader ecosystem within the Relevant Market. 3. The assessment of whether an Agreement or practice substantially enhances economic efficiency shall be based on factors including the following: a. Definition of the Relevant Market. b. The nature of the practices under review and the nature of the infringement associated therewith. c. The substitutability of the products and services provided by the concerned Undertakings covered by the exemption application with products and services available in the Relevant Market, taking into account the prevailing prices therein. d. Determination of the commercial catchment area of the Undertakings concerned by the exemption application. e. The market shares of the concerned Undertakings.

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    Cabinet Resolution of 2026 Regarding the Executive Regulations of Federal Decree by Law of 2023 Regarding the Regulation of Competition 10 f. The extent to which the concerned Undertakings enjoy a Dominant Position and monopolize the Relevant Market. g. The likelihood of countervailing buyer power among customers in the Relevant Market. h. The level of actual or potential competition in the Relevant Market. i. The effect of the practices on the entry of economic establishments into, or their exit from, the Relevant Market. j. The extent of their impact on consumer interests. k. The impact on small and medium enterprises operating in the Relevant Market.

  8. 7

    Article 7

    Article (7) Controls Governing the Notification and Examination of Proposed Amendments to Previously Exempted Practices 1. The concerned Undertakings shall notify the Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, of any proposed amendment to Agreements or practices that have previously been granted an exemption, within thirty (30) days from the date of preparation of the proposed amendment, in accordance with the same controls that are stipulated in Article (4) of this Resolution. 2. The Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, shall examine the notification relating to the proposed amendment in accordance with the same controls referred to in Article (5) of this Resolution.

  9. 8

    Article 8

    Article (8) Controls Governing the Minister's Decisions Concerning Amendments to Exempted Agreements or Practices Without prejudice to the provisions of Article (10) of the Decree by Law, approval of a proposed amendment to Agreements or practices in respect of which a decision has been issued by the Minister approving the exemption of such Agreements or practices from the application of Articles (5), (6), (7), and (8) of the Decree by Law shall be granted by virtue of

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    Cabinet Resolution of 2026 Regarding the Executive Regulations of Federal Decree by Law of 2023 Regarding the Regulation of Competition 11 an amendment decision to the original decision pursuant to which the exemption was previously granted.

  10. 9

    Article 9

    Article (9) Controls Governing the Duration of the Exemption and Periodic Review Procedures 1. The decision issued by the Minister, or the person authorized thereby, concerning an application for exemption of Agreements or practices from the application of Articles (5), (6), (7), and (8) of the Decree by Law shall specify its conditions, if any, the date on which it enters into force and expires, and its geographical scope where necessary. 2. The exemption may be extended prior to its expiry upon a reasoned written application submitted by the concerned Undertaking at least three (3) months before the expiry date of the exemption granted thereto. 3. The Minister may, sua sponte, and upon the recommendation of the Committee based on the report prepared by the competent organizational unit within the Ministry for this purpose, issue a decision extending the exemption.

  11. 10

    Article 10

    Article (10) Submission of an Application for Approval of an Economic Concentration Transaction 1. The Parties to the Economic Concentration shall submit an application for approval of the Economic Concentration transaction in accordance with the form prepared by the Ministry for this purpose, following coordination with the relevant authorities, accompanied by the following documents: a. A copy of the memorandum of association or articles of association of the Parties to the Economic Concentration. b. A copy of the business license of the Parties to the Economic Concentration. c. A copy of the contract or agreement relating to the Economic Concentration transaction.

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    Cabinet Resolution of 2026 Regarding the Executive Regulations of Federal Decree by Law of 2023 Regarding the Regulation of Competition 12 d. Audited financial statements for the last three (3) financial years of each of the Parties to the Economic Concentration and their branches. e. A statement setting out the names of the founders, partners, or shareholders of each of the Parties to the Economic Concentration and the percentage of each person's contribution or shareholding, as the case may be. f. Identification of the headquarters of the Parties to the Economic Concentration and their branches, if any, together with a statement of their contributions to the capital. g. A copy of the receipt evidencing payment of the fee for submitting the application for approval of the Economic Concentration transaction. h. A report concerning the economic dimensions of the Economic Concentration transaction, including: 1. A detailed study of the Relevant Market(s) forming the subject matter of the Economic Concentration transaction covering the last three (3) financial years preceding the date of submission of the application. 2. Identification of all competitors of the Parties to the Economic Concentration, together with the total sales thereof in the Relevant Market(s) within the State and their respective market shares during the last three (3) financial years preceding the application for approval of the Economic Concentration transaction. 3. Identification of the customers of the Parties to the Economic Concentration and the proportion of their dealings therewith within the State. 4. Identification of the markets likely to be affected by the Economic Concentration transaction. 5. Identification of the positive effects of the Economic Concentration transaction on the Relevant Market(s) and any commitments or measures proposed by the concerned Undertakings to mitigate any potential adverse effects, if any. 6. Identification of the extent to which the Economic Concentration transaction may affect the prices, quality, and availability of goods and services to consumers, in a manner ensuring that their choices are not adversely affected and that unfair prices are not imposed upon them.

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    Cabinet Resolution of 2026 Regarding the Executive Regulations of Federal Decree by Law of 2023 Regarding the Regulation of Competition 13 i. Identification of the potential geographical scope of the activities of the Parties to the Economic Concentration. j. A list of transactions related to, or having an impact upon, the Economic Concentration transaction, including, by way of example, acquisitions, mergers, or joint ventures completed during the three (3) years preceding the date of submission of the application. 2. The application for approval of the Economic Concentration transaction shall be submitted in Arabic or English in an electronically signed copy by a legal representative acting pursuant to a duly authenticated special power of attorney. 3. The data and documents accompanying the application for the Economic Concentration shall be submitted in their original language in which they were prepared, together with a translation into Arabic or English where such documents have been prepared in another language. 4. Undertakings wishing the data contained in the application for the Economic Concentration and accompanying documents to be treated as confidential information shall mark them as "Confidential" and shall provide non-confidential summaries sufficient to enable an adequate understanding of the content of the confidential information, which shall be marked "Non-Confidential".

  12. 11

    Article 11

    Article (11) Parties Responsible for Submitting an Application for Approval of an Economic Concentration Transaction The application for approval of an Economic Concentration transaction pursuant to Article (10) of this Resolution shall be submitted by the Parties to the Economic Concentration depending on the nature of the transaction, as follows: 1. In the case of an acquisition, the application shall be submitted by the acquiring Undertaking (the purchaser) or by its legal representative acting pursuant to a duly authenticated special power of attorney. 2. In the case of a merger or joint venture, the application shall be submitted by all parties concerned with the Economic Concentration transaction, or by an Undertaking authorized

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    Cabinet Resolution of 2026 Regarding the Executive Regulations of Federal Decree by Law of 2023 Regarding the Regulation of Competition 14 by the Undertakings concerned with the merger or joint venture pursuant to a duly authenticated special power of attorney.

  13. 12

    Article 12

    Article (12) Withdrawal of an Application for Approval of an Economic Concentration Transaction 1. A Party to the Economic Concentration that has submitted an application for approval of an Economic Concentration transaction pursuant to Article (11) of this Resolution may, during the initial review period, withdraw the application after its submission, in which case the application shall be deemed cancelled. 2. Any fees collected in consideration of the submission of an application relating to an Economic Concentration transaction shall not be refunded by the Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be.

  14. 13

    Article 13

    Article (13) Mechanisms for Examining an Economic Concentration Application 1. The Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, shall conduct a formal examination of the application for approval of the Economic Concentration transaction and the supporting documents within ten (10) working days, which may be extended for a similar period. Upon completion of such examination, a notice shall be issued to the Parties to the Economic Concentration confirming completion of the formal examination of the application. 2. Subject to Article (14) of the Decree by Law, where the required documents are incomplete or insufficient information has been submitted, the Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, may request the submission of additional documents within a period to be specified thereby, provided that such period does not exceed ten (10) working days from the date of notification. 3. Following notification of the Parties to the Economic Concentration pursuant to Clause (1) of this Article, the Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority,

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    Cabinet Resolution of 2026 Regarding the Executive Regulations of Federal Decree by Law of 2023 Regarding the Regulation of Competition 15 as the case may be, shall conduct a substantive review of the application to assess its positive or negative impact on the overall balance of the Relevant Market and the proper functioning of its mechanisms in accordance with the principles of free competition, based on evaluative criteria for the assessment of Economic Concentration transactions, including the following: a. The type and nature of the proposed Economic Concentration. b. The branches of the Parties to the Economic Concentration and any undertakings financially and economically affiliated therewith, if any. c. The activities of the Parties to the Economic Concentration and their branches. d. The market shares of the Parties to the Economic Concentration and the identification of their principal customers and the customers' shares within the Relevant Market(s). e. Identification of the competitors of the Parties to the Economic Concentration and their market shares in the Relevant Market(s). f. The extent to which the economic concentration is likely to result in the creation of a Dominant Position for the parties thereto in the Relevant Market upon completion of the Economic Concentration transaction. g. The extent to which the products and services provided by the Parties to the Economic Concentration may be substituted by products and services available in the Relevant Market. h. The price levels of products or services in the Relevant Market. i. The likelihood that the Economic Concentration transaction may affect the prices of the relevant products or services and consumer interests. j. Measuring the degree of concentration in the Relevant Market(s), before and after the Economic Concentration transaction. k. The likelihood that the Economic Concentration transaction may affect the entry of new economic establishments into the relevant market(s), expansion therein, or their exit therefrom. l. The extent to which there are legal restrictions on the conduct of the economic activities concerned by the Economic Concentration transaction.

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    Cabinet Resolution of 2026 Regarding the Executive Regulations of Federal Decree by Law of 2023 Regarding the Regulation of Competition 16

  15. 14

    Article 14

    Article (14) Verification Procedures in Respect of an Economic Concentration Transaction 1. The Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, may invite the Parties to the Economic Concentration or the Interested Parties in the Economic Concentration to attend meetings for the purpose of verifying the Economic Concentration transaction. Such meetings shall be subject to the following controls: a. The Parties to the Economic Concentration referred to in Clause (1) of this Article shall be heard, and the proceedings thereof shall be recorded in minutes prepared for this purpose. b. The minutes of the meeting shall include the date and place of preparation thereof, its subject matter, the statements made, the identities, and capacities of the concerned parties, and the names of the persons responsible for preparing the minutes. c. All attendees at the meeting shall sign the minutes thereof after reviewing them. Where any attendee refuses to sign, such refusal shall be recorded in the minutes together with the reason therefor, if any. 2. Where the verification of the Economic Concentration transaction requires the conduct of field investigations, the Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, may enter the premises of the Parties to the Economic Concentration and examine all records, documents, and files, including electronic documents and files, and may request samples thereof where necessary, provided that such actions are documented in minutes prepared for this purpose in accordance with the controls set forth in Clause (7) of Article (23) of this Resolution.

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    Cabinet Resolution of 2026 Regarding the Executive Regulations of Federal Decree by Law of 2023 Regarding the Regulation of Competition 17

  16. 15

    Article 15

    Article (15) Period and Controls Governing the Submission of Views by Interested Parties in an Economic Concentration Transaction Without prejudice to the provisions of Article (13) of the Decree by Law, the period and controls governing the submission of views by Interested Parties in an Economic Concentration transaction shall be as follows: 1. Interested Parties in the Economic Concentration, pursuant to Clause (4) of Article (13) of the Decree by Law, may submit their opinions within a period not exceeding fifteen (15) working days from the date on which they are invited by the Ministry to do so, provided that the Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, has first published the basic information relating to the Economic Concentration transaction on its website. 2. Any Interested Party in the Economic Concentration, pursuant to Clause (5) of Article (13) of the Decree by Law, shall have the right to submit to the Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, any data or documents relating to the Economic Concentration transaction submitted thereto, within a period not exceeding fifteen (15) working days from the date on which the Ministry publishes the basic information relating to the Economic Concentration transaction on its website. 3. Any party wishing to submit its opinion pursuant to Clause (5) of Article (13) of the Decree by Law and the provisions of this Article shall bear the burden of proving that it is an Interested Party and that it is affected by the Economic Concentration transaction. The Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, shall review the data submitted thereby and take the appropriate decision as to whether such interest exists and has been established. No submission shall be considered unless such interest and effect are proven. 4. Any supporting documents, evidence, or materials submitted to the Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Body, as the case may be, pursuant to the provisions of this Article in relation to the Economic Concentration transaction, shall be relevant and material to the verification process and to the decision intended to be taken in respect thereof.

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    Cabinet Resolution of 2026 Regarding the Executive Regulations of Federal Decree by Law of 2023 Regarding the Regulation of Competition 18 5. The supporting documents, evidence, or materials referred to herein shall be submitted in a single copy bearing the signature and details of the submitter or the submitter's representative acting pursuant to a duly authenticated special power of attorney, through electronic mail or any other means specified by the Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be.

  17. 16

    Article 16

    Article (16) Period and Controls Governing Objections to an Economic Concentration Transaction 1. Subject to Paragraph (c) of Clause (1) of Article (14) of the Decree by Law, objections to an Economic Concentration transaction shall be governed by the following period and controls: a. An objection application shall be submitted to the Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, within a period not exceeding fifteen (15) working days from the date on which the Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, publishes the basic information concerning the Economic Concentration transaction on its website. b. The objection application, together with the supporting documents, evidence, and materials attached thereto, shall be submitted in a single copy bearing the signature and identifying particulars of the objector or their representative acting pursuant to a duly authenticated special power of attorney, through electronic mail or any other means specified by the Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be. b. The objection application shall be reasoned and supported by all documents, evidence, and materials justifying its submission. 2. The Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, shall examine the objection application as to form within a period not exceeding five (5) working days from the date of receipt thereof, for the purpose of verifying compliance with the formal requirements therefor.

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    Cabinet Resolution of 2026 Regarding the Executive Regulations of Federal Decree by Law of 2023 Regarding the Regulation of Competition 19 3. Following substantive examination of the objection application and preparation of a report thereon, the Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, shall notify the objector within twenty (20) working days, commencing from the expiry of the period referred to in Clause (2) of this Article, which period may be extended by seven (7) working days, of either of the following: a. Acceptance of the objection where it is founded on acceptable grounds and serious evidence warranting consideration thereof in the examination of the Economic Concentration application. In such case, the Parties to the Economic Concentration shall be notified of the accepted objection in order to submit their responses and defenses within a period not exceeding ten (10) working days from the date of such notification. Such responses and defenses shall bear the signature and identifying particulars of the submitter or the submitter's legal representative acting pursuant to a duly authenticated special power of attorney and shall be accompanied by any documents, evidence, or materials refuting the objection, if any. b. Rejection of the objection where it is not founded on sufficient information or evidence to warrant consideration thereof in the examination of the Economic Concentration application. 4. The Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, shall resume examination of the application for approval of the Economic Concentration transaction in any of the following cases: a. Rejection of the objection to the application for approval of the Economic Concentration transaction. b. Acceptance of the response submitted in relation to the objection pursuant to Paragraph (a) of Clause (3) of this Article. c. Expiry of the period prescribed in Paragraph (a) of Clause (3) of this Article without the Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, receiving any response from the Parties to the Economic Concentration.

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    Cabinet Resolution of 2026 Regarding the Executive Regulations of Federal Decree by Law of 2023 Regarding the Regulation of Competition 20

  18. 17

    Article 17

    Article (17) Report on the Application for Approval of an Economic Concentration Transaction 1. Upon completion of the examination of the application for approval of an Economic Concentration transaction, the Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, shall prepare a report thereon containing the following: a. A statement setting out all facts and procedures undertaken in relation to the application. b. A statement identifying the parties concerned by the application, their branches, and their affiliated Undertakings. c. The principal objective of the Economic Concentration transaction. d. A study of the market(s) concerned by the application. e. A legal and economic analysis of the Economic Concentration transaction. f. An assessment of the Economic Concentration transaction and the extent of its positive or negative impact on the level of competition in the Relevant Market(s). g. A recommendation regarding the proposed decision. 2. The report shall be submitted to the Minister or to the authority competent to issue the decision within the Concerned Authority or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, within ten (10) days from the date of completion of the report referred to in Clause (1) of this Article, for the purpose of taking the appropriate decision concerning the application for approval of the Economic Concentration transaction.

  19. 18

    Article 18

    Article (18) Monitoring of Economic Concentration Transactions 1. The failure of the Parties to the Economic Concentration to submit an application for approval of the Economic Concentration transaction shall not prejudice the right of the Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, to examine and verify the Economic Concentration transaction, whether before or after

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    Cabinet Resolution of 2026 Regarding the Executive Regulations of Federal Decree by Law of 2023 Regarding the Regulation of Competition 21 its completion. In such case, the Parties to the Economic Concentration shall comply with the requirements imposed by the Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, which shall also have the right to impose the administrative penalties resulting from failure to provide notification of the Economic Concentration transaction. 2. The Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, may require the Parties to the Economic Concentration and the Interested Parties in the Economic Concentration to provide the necessary data, information, and documents, irrespective of whether the Undertakings concerned have submitted an application for approval of the transaction. The extent of the impact of the Economic Concentration transaction on the prices, quality, and availability of goods and services to consumers shall constitute one of the mandatory criteria for monitoring and assessment, in a manner ensuring that consumer choices are not adversely affected and that unfair prices are not imposed thereupon.

  20. 19

    Article 19

    Article (19) Content of a Complaint Concerning a Violation of the Provisions of the Decree by Law 1. Any person having an interest, including consumers and government authorities, shall have the direct right to submit complaints concerning practices that may affect their rights or prejudice their interests. The Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, shall examine such complaints and take the necessary measures in respect thereof in accordance with the provisions of the Decree by Law and this Resolution. 2. A complaint concerning any violation of the provisions of the Decree by Law shall be submitted to the Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, using the form prepared by the Ministry for this purpose in coordination with the relevant authorities and circulated to the Concerned Authorities and Sectoral Regulatory Authorities. Such form shall, at a minimum, include the following particulars:

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    Cabinet Resolution of 2026 Regarding the Executive Regulations of Federal Decree by Law of 2023 Regarding the Regulation of Competition 22 a. The complainant party or parties. b. The respondent party or parties. c. Identification of the infringing practices and the relevant facts. d. The legal provisions alleged to have been violated. e. The evidence and supporting materials substantiating the complaint. f. The actual or potential harm resulting from the infringing practices. g. The final relief sought in the complaint. h. The signature of the complainant or the complainant's legal representative. i. The date of submission of the complaint. j. A statement indicating whether the complaint has been submitted to any other authority within the State and the legal procedures taken in this regard, if any. 3. The complaint submitted pursuant to this Article shall be accompanied by: a. The evidence and supporting materials substantiating the complaint. b. A copy of the receipt evidencing payment of the complaint fee, if any; provided that complaints submitted directly by consumers and government authorities shall be exempt from this requirement.

  21. 20

    Article 20

    Article (20) Controls Governing the Submission of Complaints 1. A complaint shall be submitted electronically or by any other means specified by the Ministry in coordination with the relevant authorities. It shall be signed by the complainant or by their legal representative acting pursuant to a duly authenticated power of attorney and shall be accompanied by the evidence and supporting materials in the language in which they were prepared, together with a translation into Arabic or English where they were prepared in another language. 2. The Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority shall maintain the confidentiality of any information submitted by a concerned party as confidential information or constituting trade secrets under the applicable legislation or pursuant to specific legal requirements, whether such party is the complainant, the respondent, or any other party related to the complaint. Such information shall be marked

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    Cabinet Resolution of 2026 Regarding the Executive Regulations of Federal Decree by Law of 2023 Regarding the Regulation of Competition 23 "Confidential" and shall not be disclosed except with the written consent of its owner or in accordance with the provisions of the applicable legislation. The concerned party shall provide non-confidential summaries thereof sufficient to permit an understanding of their substance, marked "Non-Confidential".

  22. 21

    Article 21

    Article (21) Examination of the Complaint 1. The Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, shall examine the complaint as to form within a period not exceeding fifteen (15) working days from the date of receipt thereof, for the purpose of verifying compliance with all legal requirements prescribed under the Decree by Law and this Resolution. 2. Where the complaint does not satisfy the legal requirements, the Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, shall require the complainant to provide any data deemed necessary for examining the complaint within a period not exceeding fifteen (15) working days from the date of requesting completion of the required data or documents. 3. Where the complainant fails to provide the required data in accordance with Clause (2) of this Article, the Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, may suspend the complaint examination procedures, extend the period referred to in Clause (2) of this Article where justified, or reject the complaint, as it deems appropriate. 4. Upon completion of the examination of the complaint, the Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, shall issue a notice to the complainant containing either of the following: a. Acceptance of the complaint where sufficient information exists to initiate an investigation. b. Rejection of the complaint in either of the following cases: 1. Insufficient information to initiate an investigation into the complaint.

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    Cabinet Resolution of 2026 Regarding the Executive Regulations of Federal Decree by Law of 2023 Regarding the Regulation of Competition 24 2. The subject matter of the complaint does not fall within the competence of the Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be. 5. The Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, shall notify the respondent of the complaint and provide a copy thereof within ten (10) working days from the date on which the complainant is notified of the acceptance of the complaint. Such notice shall specify the period granted to the respondent for submitting its response, which shall not exceed thirty (30) working days from the date of dispatch of the notice, while observing the confidentiality requirements set forth in Clause (2) of Article (20) of this Resolution. Investigation procedures shall thereafter be commenced in accordance with Article (23) of this Resolution.

  23. 22

    Article 22

    Article (22) Closure of the Complaint The complaint shall be closed as follows: 1. The complainant may withdraw the complaint by means of an express and unequivocal declaration to that effect, provided that such withdrawal is submitted in the same manner in which the complaint was filed and is duly signed by the complainant or their legal representative acting pursuant to a duly authenticated power of attorney. The Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, shall decide either of the following, provided that all parties to the complaint are notified of its decision: a. Closing the complaint upon approval of the withdrawal. b. Rejecting the withdrawal request where there are indicators and information demonstrating the existence of practices contrary to the rules of free and fair competition or affecting the overall balance of the market and the integrity of its mechanisms. c. Rejecting the complaint where it determines that no grounds exist for further examination thereof due to the absence of any proven risk or effect on competition in the Relevant Market.

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    Cabinet Resolution of 2026 Regarding the Executive Regulations of Federal Decree by Law of 2023 Regarding the Regulation of Competition 25 2. Any fees, if any, collected pursuant to the Decree by Law, this Resolution, and the resolutions issued in implementation thereof for the purpose of examining the complaint shall not be refunded in any of the cases referred to in this Article.

  24. 23

    Article 23

    Article (23) Investigation Procedures in Respect of the Complaint 1. The Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, shall investigate and inquire into the complaint within ninety (90) working days from the date on which the complainant is notified of its acceptance pursuant to Article (21) of this Resolution. Such period may be extended by thirty (30) working days for the purpose of uncovering practices suspected of violating the provisions of the Decree by Law, this Resolution, and the resolutions issued in implementation thereof, based on the data and information submitted by the parties to the complaint. 2. When investigating the complaint, the Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, may request any additional data or documents from the parties related to the complaint that may assist in examining it. Such information shall be provided within a period not exceeding twenty (20) working days from the date of the request, which may be extended for a similar period, provided that this shall not impede the course and procedures of the investigation into the complaint. 3. Where the respondent fails to submit a response within the period specified in Clause (5) of Article (21) of this Resolution, or fails to provide the requested data or documents within the period prescribed in Clause (2) of this Article and in accordance with the provisions thereof, the Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, shall send a notice to the respondent including the following: a. A requirement to provide the requested information within a period not exceeding ten (10) working days from the date of the notice. b. A statement that failure to respond shall render the respondent liable to legal accountability pursuant to Article (27) of the Decree by Law.

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    Cabinet Resolution of 2026 Regarding the Executive Regulations of Federal Decree by Law of 2023 Regarding the Regulation of Competition 26 c. That their refusal to respond to the requests of the Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, shall entitle it to proceed with examination of the complaint based on the evidence and data submitted by the complainant. 4. The Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, shall not be bound by the requests, defenses, grounds, or names of the parties stated in the complaint, and may recharacterize the facts and undertake all investigative measures necessary to ensure the proper functioning of the market in accordance with the rules of free and fair competition. 5. The Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, may take any measure it deems necessary for investigating the complaint, including holding meetings with the parties related to the complaint or any other persons whose participation is required to complete the investigation into the complaint. 6. The following procedures and controls shall be observed in the meetings referred to in Clause (5) of this Article: a. The parties shall be heard by the employees vested with the capacity of judicial enforcement officers pursuant to Article (35) of the Decree by Law, based on minutes prepared for this purpose. b. The minutes shall include the date, time, and place, and subject of the meeting, the nature of the practices and violations, the statements of the parties, their identities and capacities, and the names of the persons who prepared the minutes. c. The parties shall be afforded the opportunity to review the minutes. d. The minutes shall be signed by the employees referred to in Paragraph (a) of this Clause and by all attendees. Where any party refuses to sign, such refusal shall be recorded in the minutes. 7. The Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, may conduct any field inquiries at the premises of infringing Undertakings, and may enter such premises, examine all records, documents, and files, including electronic documents and files, and take samples therefrom where necessary, through the employees vested with judicial enforcement capacity, subject to the following controls:

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    Cabinet Resolution of 2026 Regarding the Executive Regulations of Federal Decree by Law of 2023 Regarding the Regulation of Competition 27 a. The minutes shall contain the date, time, place, and subject of the inspection, and shall identify the practices and violations. b. Identification and capacity of the persons present at the time of the inspection. c. Statements of the persons interviewed. d. Names and capacities of the employees preparing the minutes. e. Identification of the documents and data reviewed. f. Persons present during the inspection shall be afforded the opportunity to review the minutes, which shall be signed by the persons who prepared them and by the persons present or their legal representatives. Any refusal to sign shall be recorded therein. 8. The Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, may seek the assistance of one or more specialized experts, at the expense of the complainant, to provide a technical opinion regarding any act or practice alleged to violate the provisions of the Decree by Law, this Resolution, and the resolutions issued in implementation thereof, where justified for the purposes of the investigation. The expert shall provide an opinion through a report prepared for this purpose within the period specified by the Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be.

  25. 24

    Article 24

    Article (24) Investigation Report Concerning the Complaint 1. Based on the investigation procedures, the Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority shall prepare a preliminary investigation report concerning the complaint, containing: a. A statement of all facts and procedures taken in relation to the complaint. b. The allegations concerning the violations raised and the defenses submitted in respect thereof. c. The legal and technical analysis of the alleged violations. d. A study of the market(s) relevant to the complaint.

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    Cabinet Resolution of 2026 Regarding the Executive Regulations of Federal Decree by Law of 2023 Regarding the Regulation of Competition 28 e. An examination of the challenges relating to anti-competitive practices raised and an assessment of the extent of their non-compliance with the Decree by Law, this Resolution, and the resolutions issued in implementation thereof. f. Preliminary findings. 2. The Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, shall send a copy of the preliminary investigation report to the parties to the complaint, subject to the confidentiality requirements prescribed by applicable legislation, and they shall be afforded the opportunity to submit their responses thereto within a period specified by the Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, provided that such period shall not exceed twenty (20) working days from the date of delivery thereof. 3. The parties to the complaint shall submit their responses to the preliminary investigation report to the Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, through the means specified thereby. 4. The parties to the complaint, or their representatives acting pursuant to a duly authenticated legal power of attorney, may request copies of, or access to, non- confidential documents or data relating to the complaint. The Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, may reject such request where it conflicts with confidentiality requirements. 5. Upon expiry of the statutory period granted to the parties to the complaint pursuant to Clause (2) of this Article, the Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, shall prepare the final investigation report, taking into account the responses submitted by the parties to the complaint to the preliminary investigation report and the findings reached during the investigation, within a period not exceeding twenty (20) working days from the expiry of the statutory period granted to such parties pursuant to Clause (2) of this Article, which may be extendable by ten (10) working days. 6. The final investigation report shall contain a recommendation regarding the proposed decision to be taken concerning the complaint.

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    Cabinet Resolution of 2026 Regarding the Executive Regulations of Federal Decree by Law of 2023 Regarding the Regulation of Competition 29 7. The Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, shall submit the final investigation report to the Minister or to the authority competent to issue the decision within the Concerned Authority or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, within a period not exceeding ten (10) working days from the date of its preparation.

  26. 25

    Article 25

    Article (25) Minister's Decision Concerning the Complaint 1. The Minister, or the authority competent to issue the decision within the Concerned Authority or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, shall issue a reasoned decision concerning the complaint within fifteen (15) working days from the date of submission of the final investigation report. 2. The Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, shall notify all parties to the complaint of the decision within a period not exceeding five (5) working days from the date of issuance thereof.

  27. 26

    Article 26

    Article (26) Reporting and Ex Officio Investigation 1. The Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, may initiate investigation procedures concerning any violation of the provisions of the Decree by Law, this Resolution, and the resolutions issued in implementation thereof sua sponte, based on evidence indicating reasonable grounds and sufficient information establishing the existence of practices or acts that may prejudice, restrict, or impede free and fair competition. 2. The Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, shall take the necessary measures concerning the violation(s) referred to in Clause (1) of this Article and may coordinate among themselves, as the case may require, in accordance with the controls and procedures governing complaints set forth in this Resolution.

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    Cabinet Resolution of 2026 Regarding the Executive Regulations of Federal Decree by Law of 2023 Regarding the Regulation of Competition 30 3. The Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, may conduct periodic market monitoring and require Undertakings to provide the necessary data and information. All Undertakings shall furnish the data, information, or documents requested for the purposes of market studies or evidentiary and investigative activities. 4. Any person may report to the Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, any violation of the provisions of the Decree by Law, this Resolution, and the resolutions issued in implementation thereof.

  28. 27

    Article 27

    Article (27) Settlement 1. The settlement referred to in Clause (2) of Article (33) of the Decree by Law shall be effected in accordance with the following controls: a. The settlement shall be in writing and signed by the infringing parties. b. The settlement shall contain an express acknowledgment by the infringing Undertakings of the offences committed in violation of the provisions of the Decree by Law. c. The settlement shall include the infringing Undertaking's commitment to pay the amount determined by the Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, provided that such amount shall not be less than the amount prescribed under the Decree by Law, within thirty (30) working days from the date of settlement. d. The settlement shall include the infringing Undertaking's commitment to rectify its anti-competitive practice. e. Copies of the settlement shall be prepared in a number corresponding to the parties thereto, and the Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, shall retain one copy thereof. 2. A settlement shall be concluded either upon an application submitted by an Undertaking proven to have committed any of the offences stipulated in the Decree by Law or upon a

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    Cabinet Resolution of 2026 Regarding the Executive Regulations of Federal Decree by Law of 2023 Regarding the Regulation of Competition 31 proposal by the Minister, the person authorized thereby, or the head of the Concerned Authority or Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be. 3. The settlement shall be binding upon all Undertakings signatories thereto and shall not be subject to any form of challenge. 4. The settlement shall not enter into force until the infringing parties provide proof of payment of the amount referred to in Paragraph (c) of Clause (1) of this Article. 5. Subject to Clause (2) of Article (33) of the Decree by Law, the settlement shall result in the cessation of criminal proceedings at any stage prior to referral of the criminal case for trial against the infringing parties and the lapse of any interim or provisional orders or judgments issued in connection with the offences that are the subject of the settlement. 6. The settlement shall not exempt the infringer from any civil liability for any damage caused to, or sustained by, an injured party as a result of the offence committed. 7. Where any party to the settlement refuses to comply with the terms thereof, the Minister, or the person authorized thereby, including the heads of the Concerned Authorities or Sectoral Regulatory Authorities, as the case may be, may request referral of the criminal case for trial. 8. An Undertaking proven to have committed any of the offences stipulated in the Decree by Law shall rectify its anti-competitive practice in accordance with Paragraph (d) of Clause (1) of this Article and submit supporting documents evidencing such rectification to the Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, within the period prescribed thereby according to the nature and type of the offence.

  29. 28

    Article 28

    Article (28) Controls Governing Requests for Technical Opinions Subject to Article (20) of the Decree by Law: 1. Requests made by the Ministry for technical opinions from Concerned Authorities and Sectoral Regulatory Authorities shall be governed by the following controls: a. The request shall be issued by the Ministry in writing to the Concerned Authority or Sectoral Regulatory Authority in writing.

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    Cabinet Resolution of 2026 Regarding the Executive Regulations of Federal Decree by Law of 2023 Regarding the Regulation of Competition 32 b. The request shall include a summary containing the basic information relating to the complaints or procedures associated with the exemption or Economic Concentration transaction forming the subject matter thereof. c. The request shall specify the practices relating to the complaints or procedures concerning the exemption or Economic Concentration transaction forming the subject matter thereof. d. The request shall identify the issue in respect of which the opinion of the Concerned Authority or Sectoral Regulatory Authority is sought, in accordance with the powers vested therein. e. The Ministry shall provide any clarifications requested by the authority to which the request for a technical opinion has been directed. f. Full confidentiality shall be maintained with respect to requests for technical opinions. g. All procedures relating to obtaining the technical opinion shall be documented in the records of the Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, including details of the entity from which the opinion was requested, the content of the opinion, and the information provided thereby. 2. The Concerned Authority or Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, shall provide the requested technical opinion to the Ministry in accordance with the following controls: a. The technical opinion shall address each clause in respect of which an opinion is sought pursuant to Clause (1) of Article (20) of the Decree by Law, the Ministry's request, and this Resolution. b. The technical opinion shall include an explanation of the state of competition in the Relevant Market(s). c. The technical opinion shall be accompanied by the documents, reports, or statistics relied upon. d. The technical opinion shall identify the data, information, or reports that must be treated as confidential.

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    Cabinet Resolution of 2026 Regarding the Executive Regulations of Federal Decree by Law of 2023 Regarding the Regulation of Competition 33

  30. 29

    Article 29

    Article (29) Controls and Procedures Governing the Consideration by Concerned Authorities of Anti-Competitive Practices, Related Request for Exemption, and Applications for Approval of Economic Concentration Transactions 1. The submission of complaints concerning anti-competitive practices, requests for exemption, or applications for approval of Economic Concentration transactions affecting competition to the Concerned Authority shall be as follows: a. Where a Concerned Authority receives, pursuant to Article (21) of the Decree by Law, any complaint concerning anti-competitive practices, request for exemption, or application for approval of an Economic Concentration transaction affecting competition at the Emirate level, it shall, within a period not exceeding ten (10) working days from the date of receipt thereof, conduct a preliminary assessment to determine whether the matter falls within its jurisdiction, in accordance with the conditions set out in Clause (1) of Article (21) of the Decree by Law. b. If the Concerned Authority determines that the matter does not fall within its jurisdiction due to the absence of the conditions set out in Clause (1) of Article (21) of the Decree by Law, it shall immediately refer the matter, within a period not exceeding fifteen (15) working days from the date of determining that the matter does not fall within its jurisdiction, to the Ministry, accompanied by all relevant documents. The Ministry shall then examine the matter in accordance with the provisions of the Decree by Law and this Resolution. c. If the Concerned Authority determines that the matter falls within its jurisdiction due to the fulfilment of the conditions set out in Clause (1) of Article (21) of the Decree by Law, it shall, within a period not exceeding fifteen (15) working days from the date of determining that the matter does not fall within its jurisdiction, notify the Ministry in writing of its intention to examine the matter and provide the Ministry with a copy of the complaint or application. d. If, upon receipt of the notification referred to in Paragraph (c) of this Clause, the Ministry decides to participate in the examination of the matter in accordance with Clause (2) of Article (21) of the Decree by Law, it shall notify the Concerned Authority

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    Cabinet Resolution of 2026 Regarding the Executive Regulations of Federal Decree by Law of 2023 Regarding the Regulation of Competition 34 of its decision in writing within a period not exceeding ten (10) working days from the date of receipt of the notification. If the Ministry issues such notification within the said period, the Concerned Authority shall cooperate with the Ministry and provide it with all necessary information and documents. Jurisdiction over the matter shall remain vested in the Concerned Authority, subject to the conditions set out in Clause (1) of Article (21) of the Decree by Law. If the Ministry does not notify its decision to participate within that period, the Concerned Authority may proceed to examine the matter independently. e. If, upon receipt of the notification from the Concerned Authority pursuant to Paragraph (c) of this Clause, the Ministry determines that the matter does not fall within the jurisdiction of the Concerned Authority due to the absence of any of the conditions set out in Clause (1) of Article (21) of the Decree by Law, it shall notify the Concerned Authority thereof in writing within a period not exceeding ten (10) working days from the date of receipt of the notification, accompanied by a preliminary assessment establishing that the matter falls within the jurisdiction of the Ministry. f. If the Ministry issues the notification referred to in Paragraph (e) of this Clause within the period referred to therein, the Concerned Authority and the Ministry shall cooperate with each other in order to reach agreement on the authority competent to examine the matter within a period not exceeding twenty (20) working days. If no agreement is reached, the Concerned Authority may proceed with the examination of the matter in cooperation with the Ministry and shall provide it with all necessary information and documents. g. If, during the examination of the matter by the Concerned Authority, it becomes apparent that any of the conditions set out in Clause (1) of Article (21) of the Decree by Law is not satisfied, jurisdiction over the matter shall transfer to the Ministry, and the Concerned Authority may participate in the continued examination of the matter in cooperation with the Ministry. h. For the purposes of Paragraph (b) of Clause (1) of Article (21) of the Decree by Law, the mere fact that the effects of the practice extend beyond the boundaries of the Emirate shall not result in the Concerned Authority losing jurisdiction to examine such

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    Cabinet Resolution of 2026 Regarding the Executive Regulations of Federal Decree by Law of 2023 Regarding the Regulation of Competition 35 practice, where such effect is limited in scale or value, or arises incidentally from transactions related to an Economic Activity whose principal effects are concentrated within the boundaries of the Emirate, and does not result in any material effect on Competition in markets located outside the Emirate. i. The Ministry shall maintain the confidentiality of any information received from the Concerned Authority in accordance with the same confidentiality requirements imposed on the Ministry under this Resolution. 2. The submission of a complaint concerning anti-competitive practices, a request for exemption, or an application for approval of an Economic Concentration transaction affecting competition to the Ministry shall be as follows: a. Where any complaint concerning anti-competitive practices, request for exemption, or application for approval of an Economic Concentration transaction is submitted directly to the Ministry, the Ministry shall, within a period not exceeding ten (10) working days from the date of receipt thereof, conduct a preliminary assessment to determine whether the matter falls within the jurisdiction of a Concerned Authority or a Sectoral Regulatory Authority, in accordance with the conditions set out in Clause (1) of Article (21) and Article (22) of the Decree by Law. b. If the Ministry determines that the matter falls within the jurisdiction of a Concerned Authority or a Sectoral Regulatory Authority, it shall immediately refer the matter, within a period not exceeding fifteen (15) working days from the date on which jurisdiction is determined, to the Concerned Authority or Sectoral Regulatory Authority, accompanied by all relevant documents. The Concerned Authority or Sectoral Regulatory Authority shall then examine the matter in accordance with the provisions of the Decree by Law and this Resolution. c. If the Ministry determines that the matter falls within its direct jurisdiction, it shall immediately notify the complainant or applicant thereof within a period not exceeding fifteen (15) working days from the date of determining that the matter falls within its direct jurisdiction, and shall commence examination of the matter in accordance with the provisions of the Decree by Law and this Resolution.

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    Cabinet Resolution of 2026 Regarding the Executive Regulations of Federal Decree by Law of 2023 Regarding the Regulation of Competition 36 d. In all cases, the Ministry, the Concerned Authority, or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority, as the case may be, shall maintain the confidentiality of the information received in accordance with the confidentiality requirements imposed under this Resolution.

  31. 30

    Article 30

    Article (30) Controls Governing the Consideration by Sectoral Regulatory Authorities of Anti-Competitive Practices, Related Requests for Exemption, and Applications for Approval of Economic Concentration Transactions Subject to Article (22) of the Decree by Law and after fulfilment of the conditions set forth therein, Sectoral Regulatory Authorities shall consider anti-competitive practices, related requests for exemption, and applications for approval of Economic Concentration transactions that may affect the competitive position and overall balance of the sector concerned, as follows: 1. The Sectoral Regulatory Authority shall submit a request to the Ministry seeking authorization to undertake such consideration within a period not exceeding: a. Seven (7) working days from the date of receipt by the Sectoral Regulatory Authority of complaints relating to practices and violations of the provisions of the Decree by Law and this Resolution. b. Ten (10) working days from the date of receipt by the Sectoral Regulatory Authority of requests for exemption or applications for approval of Economic Concentration transactions. 2. The Ministry shall issue its approval of the request referred to in Clause (1) of this Article within a period not exceeding ten (10) working days from the date of receipt thereof. Failure by the Ministry to issue a decision within such period shall be deemed approval of the request. 3. Where the Ministry rejects the request referred to in Clause (1) of this Article, the Sectoral Regulatory Authority shall refer the matter to the Ministry within seven (7) working days from the date of rejection in order for the Ministry to undertake the procedures in accordance with the Decree by Law and this Resolution.

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    Cabinet Resolution of 2026 Regarding the Executive Regulations of Federal Decree by Law of 2023 Regarding the Regulation of Competition 37 4. In all cases where a Sectoral Regulatory Authority considers a matter, it shall apply the provisions relating to complaints, requests for exemption, and Economic Concentration transactions prescribed for the Ministry under this Resolution.

  32. 31

    Article 31

    Article (31) Implementing Decisions and Sector-Specific Regulations 1. The Minister shall issue the decisions necessary for the implementation of the provisions of this Resolution. 2. Without prejudice to Clause (1) of this Article: a. The Committee may issue, on a unified basis, special regulations or guidelines concerning the practices and transactions regulated by the Decree by Law or concerning specific economic sectors, taking into account the characteristics and considerations particular to each sector. b. The Concerned Authority or the Sectoral Regulatory Authority may issue implementing circulars in respect of the special regulations or guidelines referred to in Paragraph (a) of this Clause.

  33. 32

    Article 32

    Article (32) Repeals Cabinet Resolution No. (37) of 2014 Regarding the Executive Regulations of Federal Law No. (4) of 2012 Regarding the Regulation of Competition is hereby repealed, as well as any provision that contradicts or conflicts with the provisions of this Resolution.

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    Cabinet Resolution of 2026 Regarding the Executive Regulations of Federal Decree by Law of 2023 Regarding the Regulation of Competition 38

  34. 33

    Article 33

    Article (33) Publication and Entry into Force This Resolution shall be published in the Official Gazette and shall enter into force three (3) months after the date of its publication. Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Prime Minister Issued by Us: On: 2 Dhu al-Qi'dah 1447 A.H. Corresponding to: 20 April 2026 A.D.

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Note: The Arabic text of this legislation is the authoritative version as per the official UAE Legislation portal.

Articles in this law(34)
  1. 1Article (1) Definitions The definitions set forth in Federal Decree by Law No. (
  2. 2Article (2) Controls for Determining the Ability of a Dominant Position to Exerc
  3. 3Article (3) Controls Governing the Prohibition of Offering or Applying Predatory
  4. 4Article (4) Documents and Controls Relating to Exemption Notifications 1. For th
  5. 5Article (5) Examination of the Exemption Notification 1. The Ministry, the Conce
  6. 6Article (6) of the Decree by Law; b. The significance of the Undertaking's sales
  7. 6Article (6) Consideration of the Application for the Grant of an Exemption in Re
  8. 7Article (7) Controls Governing the Notification and Examination of Proposed Amen
  9. 8Article (8) Controls Governing the Minister's Decisions Concerning Amendments to
  10. 9Article (9) Controls Governing the Duration of the Exemption and Periodic Review
  11. 10Article (10) Submission of an Application for Approval of an Economic Concentrat
  12. 11Article (11) Parties Responsible for Submitting an Application for Approval of a
  13. 12Article (12) Withdrawal of an Application for Approval of an Economic Concentrat
  14. 13Article (13) Mechanisms for Examining an Economic Concentration Application 1. T
  15. 14Article (14) Verification Procedures in Respect of an Economic Concentration Tra
  16. 15Article (15) Period and Controls Governing the Submission of Views by Interested
  17. 16Article (16) Period and Controls Governing Objections to an Economic Concentrati
  18. 17Article (17) Report on the Application for Approval of an Economic Concentration
  19. 18Article (18) Monitoring of Economic Concentration Transactions 1. The failure of
  20. 19Article (19) Content of a Complaint Concerning a Violation of the Provisions of
  21. 20Article (20) Controls Governing the Submission of Complaints 1. A complaint shal
  22. 21Article (21) Examination of the Complaint 1. The Ministry, the Concerned Authori
  23. 22Article (22) Closure of the Complaint The complaint shall be closed as follows:
  24. 23Article (23) Investigation Procedures in Respect of the Complaint 1. The Ministr
  25. 24Article (24) Investigation Report Concerning the Complaint 1. Based on the inves
  26. 25Article (25) Minister's Decision Concerning the Complaint 1. The Minister, or th
  27. 26Article (26) Reporting and Ex Officio Investigation 1. The Ministry, the Concern
  28. 27Article (27) Settlement 1. The settlement referred to in Clause (2) of Article (
  29. 28Article (28) Controls Governing Requests for Technical Opinions Subject to Artic
  30. 29Article (29) Controls and Procedures Governing the Consideration by Concerned Au
  31. 30Article (30) Controls Governing the Consideration by Sectoral Regulatory Authori
  32. 31Article (31) Implementing Decisions and Sector-Specific Regulations 1. The Minis
  33. 32Article (32) Repeals Cabinet Resolution No. (37) of 2014 Regarding the Executive
  34. 33Article (33) Publication and Entry into Force This Resolution shall be published
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