This whitepaper outlines how the UAE can become more internationally competitive in global shipping by improving vessel-ownership attractiveness and strengthening its flag registry proposition.

It focuses on two connected priorities: standardisation of UAE tax treatment for global shipping structures, and a practical transformation of the UAE into a Flag State of choice through regulatory coordination, service modernization, and legal infrastructure development.

What’s Inside

• Why a tax-effective UAE vessel-ownership framework is critical for long-term shipping competitiveness
• How an alternative tonnage tax model could align with global BEPS and Pillar Two standards
• Which operational and regulatory barriers currently limit UAE flag adoption by global operators
• What roadmap and working groups are proposed to execute reform across tax, registry, and maritime law