New mandatory accreditation regime for valuers under Ministerial Decision 117/2026

Ministerial Decision No. 117/2026, issued on 3 June 2026 by the UAE Minister of Economy and Tourism, establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework governing the valuation of non-cash assets contributed to company capital. The Decision introduces a mandatory accreditation and registration regime for valuers, requires compliance with internationally recognised valuation standards (International Valuation Standards and RICS Red Book), and imposes specific requirements for valuation reports. The framework applies to all company forms subject to the Commercial Companies Law, except public joint stock companies regulated by the Securities and Commodities Authority. It covers valuations required on incorporation, capital increases and reductions, and other transactions requiring asset valuation, including real estate, equipment, intellectual property, and financial assets. Key requirements include: registration in a central register maintained by the Ministry of Economy and Tourism is mandatory; valuers must be accredited and licensed by the relevant Competent Authority in each Emirate; valuation reports have a six-month validity period; data used in valuations must not exceed three months in age; and valuers are prohibited from issuing reports where they provided material services relating to pricing or structuring of the same transaction to a principal party in the preceding 12 months. Non-compliance may result in administrative penalties under Cabinet Decision No. 102/2022.