Sheikh Zayed's wisdom and vision forged a vibrant nation from seven small backward emirates. This vision, an innate sense of justice and humanity and his desire to uplift his people transformed these small backward desert states into the lush, modern cities of today. His was a voice of moderation and peace in an increasingly turbulent world. Sheikh Zayed's passing away is a great loss not only to the UAE but also to the entire region and the Arab world. We pay homage to him and pray that the Almighty will grant his soul eternal peace.
Sheikh Taieq Al Qassemi, a member of the Executive Council of Government of Sharjah and Chairman of the Economic Development Department and the Sharjah Commerce & Tourism Development Authority has honoured us by agreeing to pen the guest column in this issue. We also feature an interview with Mr. Carlos Marques, General Manager of Control & Applications Emirates Ltd., which is part of the Denion Group of Spain. We profile Mr. Ketan Dalal, a senior partner of our Indian associate, RSM & Co. Mr. Dalal, apart from his expertise in international taxation and cross-border investment structuring issues, is also an eminent speaker and author.
Succession planning has often been a taboo subject in the region because of local cultural sensibilities. Chris Rebindaine of Investec Trust (Jersey) Ltd. discusses how changes in investment laws and regulations are making such issues more palatable. Also, we have an article by our Indian partners which looks at the tax implications of circulars issued recently by the Central Board of Direct Taxes of India on BPO units operating in India.
The update on Oman in this issue features, in addition to other matters, the law passed recently permitting foreign ownership of property in the Sultanate. The Free Zone column provides an update on the Knowledge Village, Dubai and on the Ras Al Khaimah Free Zone.
Please feel free to write (update@pkfuae.com) if you would like to express an opinion on any matter inside.
