In brief
The UAE's competition framework continues to develop at pace. Following our publication in June on the new implementing regulations here, two further developments have followed in quick succession: Cabinet Resolution No. 105 of 2026 (the Fees Resolution), which prescribes the fees payable for services under the Competition Law, and the publication of official Guidelines on Relevant Market Definition (the Market Definition Guidance). This alert summarises the key points arising from each.
In detail
Filing fees under the Fees Resolution
The Fees Resolution introduces the schedule of fees payable to the Ministry of Economy (or the relevant concerned authority) in connection with applications and requests made under the Competition Law.
The fees are as follows:
| Service | Fee (AED) |
| Exemption application on restrictive agreements, dominant position, economic dependency and predatory pricing | 5,000 per application |
| Economic concentration application | 0.02% of total annual sales of participating undertakings, capped at 150,000 |
| Objection against an economic concentration transaction | 1,500 |
| Grievance against decisions (refundable if accepted) | 500 |
The Fees Resolution came into force on 29 July 2026 following publication in the Official Gazette.
Market Definition Guidance
The Ministry published the Market Definition Guidance as a practical reference tool under the Competition Law for economic undertakings, legal advisers, market research firms and other stakeholders.
It sets out the methodology, key stages and fundamental procedures to be followed when defining a relevant market for the purposes of complaints, exemption applications and economic concentration approvals under the Competition Law.
The fee schedule is now in force, and parties should factor the applicable filing fees, inparticular the ad valorem merger control filing fee, into their transaction planning and budgets.
Exemption applications across all four categories (restrictive agreements, dominant position, economic dependency and predatory pricing) each attract a flat fee of AED 5,000.
The publication of the Market Definition Guidance signals the continued maturation of the UAE's competition regime and provides a useful reference point for parties engaging with the authorities on merger control and enforcement matters.
This alert is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
How can we help
At PwC Legal Middle East, our multidisciplinary team of subject matter experts supports clients throughout the full M&A transaction lifecycle.
We assist with regulatory compliance reviews, draft transaction documents incorporating the necessary regulatory conditions precedent and help secure required approvals from the relevant authorities, including the Ministry of Economy under the Competition Law.
Speak to our team to discuss how these developments could impact your transactions and the actions to consider.
