Government licensing and approvals

We help businesses and individuals secure essential government licences, permits, and authorisations across the UAE. From regulatory submissions to strategic advice, we guide clients through complex approval frameworks with confidence and efficiency.

Practice Overview

Government licensing is a critical step for doing business in the UAE. At Kayrouz & Associates, we provide legal guidance to local and international clients navigating regulatory requirements set by ministries, free zones, and other public authorities. Whether applying for a new licence, amending an existing one, or addressing delays or denials, we ensure each application is aligned with legal standards and commercial needs.

We understand the legal and procedural nuances that govern permits in highly regulated sectors including healthcare, education, telecommunications, energy, and professional services. Our lawyers advise on documentation, eligibility, approvals, renewals, and strategic positioning to expedite licensing processes.

Our work often involves direct engagement with regulators to clarify requirements or resolve objections. When issues arise, we assist clients in contesting refusals or conditions through formal correspondence, legal opinion letters, and, where necessary, administrative appeals. Our goal is always to secure approvals while protecting our clients’ long-term interests.

We offer legal advice on a wide spectrum of matters:

  • Preparing and submitting licence and permit applications
  • Regulatory assessments and compliance mapping
  • Addressing licence denials, delays, or conditions
  • Advising on licence transfers, amendments, and renewals
  • Coordinating with free zone authorities and federal regulators
  • Supporting special approvals in restricted or strategic sectors
  • Meet Our Team

    Our team is equipped to handle complex legal matters with precision and care. Learn more about our lawyers below.
    Pierre Kayrouz

    Pierre Kayrouz

    Chief Legal Officer
    Maria Valeyeva

    Maria Valeyeva

    Chief Compliance Officer
    Georges Touma

    Georges Touma

    Head Litigator
    Hanan Ahmed Al Balushi

    Hanan Ahmed

    Practicing Lawyer
    Lathamani Chandrashekar

    Lathamani Chandrashekar

    Senior Corporate Counsel
    Arka Navle

    Arka Navle

    Corporate Counsel
    Nashita Nazneen

    Nashita Nazneen

    Junior Corporate Counsel
    Professor Mark Engelman

    Mark Engelman

    Intellectual Property Barrister
    Rita Semaan

    Rita Semaan

    Legal Consultant
    Carlos Rahme

    Carlos Rahme

    Senior Legal Consultant
    Souhad Al Ghorayeb

    Souhad Al Ghorayeb

    Senior Legal Consultant
    Sandy Y. Geagea

    Sandy Geagea

    Legal Consultant
    Saeed Gaber

    Saeed Gaber

    Legal Research Analyst
    Muhammed Ali Charif

    Muhammed Ali Charif

    Junior Legal Counsel
    Jenifer Abu Nasr

    Jenifer Abu Nasr

    Paralegal
    Patricia Abi Mansour

    Patricia Abi Mansour

    Business Development Manager
    Valakshmi Balasubramanian

    Varalakshmi Balasubramanian

    Operations Assistant
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