Layla Hassan
216 POSTS
Layla Hassan writes Gulf Times Now’s guides — the practical, checkable answers to moving to the Gulf, living here, working here and starting a business. Her brief is service journalism: what the rule actually is, what it costs, what it takes and what changed, written so a reader can act on it the same day.
Exclusive articles:
UAE Golden Visa 2026: Every Category, Verified Costs and How to Apply
The UAE Golden Visa is one of the world's most sought-after long-term residency programmes, and in 2026 it has been significantly expanded. Whether you...
Qatar Banking and Finance 2026: Qatar National Bank, Islamic Banking and QCB Framework
Qatar's banking and financial sector is among the most developed in the GCC. Home to the Arab world's largest bank by assets, a significant...
How to Hire Employees in the UAE in 2026: Labour Law, Visas and Compliance
Hiring employees in the UAE involves navigating a specific regulatory framework that governs employment contracts, visa sponsorship, end-of-service benefits, and the increasingly important Emiratisation...
How to Register for VAT in the UAE in 2026: Complete FTA Registration Guide
Value Added Tax (VAT) was introduced in the UAE on 1 January 2018 at a standard rate of 5%, one of the lowest VAT...
GCC Free Trade Agreements 2026: UAE CEPAs, GCC-UK and India Trade Deals
The Gulf Cooperation Council's trade relationships are being reshaped by a wave of free trade agreement (FTA) negotiations and signings that represent a fundamental...
Breaking
Abu Dhabi People of Determination Card: Free
Abu Dhabi's People of Determination Card is free, issued in 1 working day. The linked parking permit needs kinship proof and takes 3 days. Full guide.
Abu Dhabi Vehicle Impounding: Fees for Each Step
Abu Dhabi's Smart Vehicle Impounding costs AED 15/day, the release certificate AED 100, and leaving it uncollected adds AED 50-100 more. Full guide.
Abu Dhabi Traffic Points: 24-Point Licence Rule
At 24 traffic points, Abu Dhabi drivers must surrender their licence, free but mandatory. How points attach to a licence and the AED 100 clearance cert.
Dubai nol Card Refund: Cash vs Transfer Cost
A cash nol card refund costs 2.5% or AED 5, whichever is higher. Transferring to another nol card is free. Full RTA refund process and timeline.


