Business
Dubai Court Orders Employee Dues Paid in Cryptocurrency and Dirhams in Landmark Ruling
In a groundbreaking ruling that reflects Dubai’s evolving legal and financial landscape, a court has ordered an employer to pay an Employee Dues Paid in Cryptocurrency. This decision, rendered by the Dubai Courts of First Instance in case number 1739 of 2024, marks a pivotal moment in the acceptance of digital currencies within the country’s legal framework.
The case arose when an employee filed a claim for arbitrary dismissal, demanding that her employer fulfill their contractual obligation to pay her wages in a combination of UAE dirhams and EcoWatt Tokens, a form of cryptocurrency. The court ruled in favor of the employee, requiring the employer to pay the agreed salary, which included the cryptocurrency, in addition to the local currency.
A Landmark Case for Cryptocurrency in Employment Contracts
This ruling is significant as it’s one of the first cases in Dubai where cryptocurrency was recognized as a valid part of an employment contract. The court’s decision reinforces the employee’s right to receive her wages in the agreed-upon form, highlighting the increasing legitimacy of cryptocurrency in legal and financial transactions.
The court ordered the company to pay 5,250 EcoWatt Tokens, which had been unpaid for six months, as well as the remaining salary in UAE dirhams. The employer had failed to provide evidence that these payments were made, prompting the court’s ruling. This case is a prime example of Dubai’s legal system adapting to the rapid growth and adoption of cryptocurrency as a legitimate means of payment.
Expert Opinions on the Legal Precedent
Legal experts view this decision as a significant step forward in the recognition of cryptocurrency in employment contracts. Mahmoud Abuwasel, managing partner at Wasel and Wasel, stated that this judgment underscores the fundamental right of employees to be compensated as per their contracts. The ruling builds on Article 912 of the UAE Civil Transactions Law, which enshrines the importance of honoring contractual obligations.
Navandeep Matta, senior associate at Kochhar & Co Inc., further emphasized that this ruling demonstrates the UAE’s adaptability and progressive stance on modern financial instruments. “This 2024 ruling reflects the UAE courts’ readiness to integrate digital currencies into the legal framework, providing a flexible approach to wage payments. It highlights that while traditional methods like the Wage Protection System (WPS) continue to operate, newer forms of compensation, such as cryptocurrency, are gaining acceptance.”
READ MORE: Bitcoin to Hit $100k Valuation in 2025 Bull Run: What You Need to Know
The Rise of Cryptocurrency in UAE Business
The use of cryptocurrency in financial transactions is on the rise in the UAE, with several industries incorporating digital currencies as part of their payment methods. This case is especially relevant in the tech and blockchain sectors, where cryptocurrencies are frequently used as part of employee compensation. The ruling may encourage more companies to offer such alternative payment methods, provided they are explicitly included in employment contracts.
Irina Heaver, a partner at NeosLegal, clarified that while this case sets a precedent for cryptocurrency payments, the UAE dirham remains the country’s sole legal tender. The ruling does not alter the fact that official salary payments registered with the WPS must still be made in AED. The cryptocurrency portion, in this case, was viewed as an additional benefit, akin to bonuses or shares, which are increasingly common in tech and startup industries.
“This is an important decision for employees working in innovative sectors, such as Web3, where projects often reward workers with tokens in addition to traditional wages. The ruling reinforces that employees have the right to be compensated as agreed, including through digital tokens,” Heaver explained.
Past Judgments and Legal Evolution
This isn’t the first time Dubai’s courts have addressed the issue of cryptocurrency in employment contracts. In 2023, a similar case (judgment number 6,947) involved an employee’s salary being partially paid in EcoWatt Tokens. However, at that time, the court did not award the cryptocurrency portion, citing concerns about the legality and enforceability of such payments. The 2024 ruling represents a shift, with the court now recognizing cryptocurrency payments as a valid form of compensation.
“This evolution from the 2023 ruling to the 2024 judgment illustrates Dubai’s growing openness to cryptocurrency in legal matters,” said Abuwasel. “The UAE courts are adapting to the changing financial landscape, ensuring that legal protections evolve alongside technological advancements.”
Wider Implications for Cryptocurrency Adoption in the UAE
This case could pave the way for increased adoption of cryptocurrency in various sectors across the UAE, especially as industries like real estate, retail, and hospitality begin to explore digital currencies as a viable payment method. Several real estate developers in Dubai already accept cryptocurrency for property purchases, typically converting these payments to fiat currencies to avoid the volatility associated with digital assets.
As digital currencies become more accepted, other sectors may follow suit, incorporating cryptocurrency into their payment systems. This could revolutionize how businesses operate, drive further innovation, and strengthen the UAE’s position as a global hub for financial technology.
Matta added, “The court’s decision symbolizes a broader acceptance of cryptocurrency in financial transactions and mirrors global trends toward recognizing digital currencies as legitimate assets. This ruling not only supports employee rights but also reinforces the UAE’s standing as a leader in financial and technological innovation.”
Conclusion: A Significant Step Forward
Dubai’s decision to enforce a contract that included cryptocurrency as part of an employee’s wages marks a significant development in the legal recognition of digital currencies. As cryptocurrencies gain broader acceptance, rulings like this highlight the UAE’s progressive stance in adapting its legal framework to accommodate the evolving financial ecosystem.
For more updates on cryptocurrency in the UAE and legal developments, visit What’s Hot in UAE.
Entrepreneur
How to Sneaker-Shop Like a Pro: Finding Rare Kicks in the UAE
Dubai has rapidly become a global sneaker hub, with limited-edition drops, high-end sneaker boutiques, and exclusive resell markets thriving across the city. If you’re wondering how to sneaker-shop effectively, whether you’re after Nike Dunks, Yeezys, or rare Jordan collaborations, the UAE offers plenty of ways to cop exclusive sneakers—if you know where to look. Knowing how to sneaker-shop in such a diverse marketplace can be overwhelming, but understanding the scene is key.
Here’s your ultimate guide to finding the rarest sneakers in Dubai & Abu Dhabi like a pro. Learning how to sneaker-shop here means knowing the right places and times.
1. The Best Sneaker Stores for Exclusive Releases in the UAE
If you’re looking for exclusive releases, high-heat sneakers, and rare collaborations, these are the top sneaker boutiques in the UAE:
👟 Top Sneaker Boutiques in Dubai & Abu Dhabi
🏆 Presentedby (Dubai Mall) – The UAE’s hottest sneaker consignment store, with a gallery-style layout and premium sneakers sourced globally.
🔥 Concepts Dubai (City Walk 2) – One of the best stores for limited-edition sneaker collabs, including Nike, New Balance, and Yeezy.
💎 Amongst Few (Jumeirah 1) – A UAE-based streetwear brand and sneaker boutique stocking exclusive releases and local collabs.
👀 The Good Life (Alserkal Avenue) – A sneaker boutique known for carrying rare Air Jordans, Yeezys, and New Balance drops.
🚀 MAD Kicks (Bluewaters Island) – One of the top resell sneaker stores in Dubai, specializing in rare and high-value kicks.
🌍 Snkr Bubble (Dubai Design District) – A go-to spot for luxury sneakers, Nike SB Dunks, and premium streetwear.
✅ Pro Tip: Follow these stores on Instagram for real-time updates on exclusive sneaker releases and restocks. Additionally, knowing how to sneaker-shop in Dubai is simplified by staying connected through social media.
2. How to Get Early Access to Nike SNKRS & Yeezy Drops in Dubai
Copping sneakers at retail prices is tough, but early access and raffles can help you secure limited-edition kicks before they hit the resell market.
🔥 Best Ways to Get Exclusive Sneaker Drops in Dubai
✅ Nike SNKRS App – Nike’s official app for exclusive releases and limited sneaker drops. Download it and enable notifications to increase your chances when you learn how to sneaker-shop effectively.
✅ Adidas CONFIRMED App – The best way to enter raffles for Yeezy and Adidas collaborations before they sell out.
✅ Limited-Edition Sneaker Raffles – Boutiques like Concepts Dubai, Presentedby, and Amongst Few regularly host raffles for high-heat sneakers. Follow them on social media for updates.
✅ Retailer Priority Lists – Stores like The Good Life and MAD Kicks offer VIP customer lists, giving priority access to exclusive sneaker drops.
3. The Best Sneaker Resell Marketplaces in the UAE
If you miss out on retail drops, resell platforms and consignment stores are your best bet for scoring rare kicks in Dubai & Abu Dhabi. Learning how to sneaker-shop in the resell market is a must for rare finds.
💰 Trusted Resell Marketplaces for Legit Sneakers
📦 MAD Kicks (Dubai) – A top resell sneaker store specializing in rare Jordans, Yeezys, and Off-White collaborations.
💎 Presentedby (Dubai Mall) – A premium sneaker consignment store offering authenticated high-value sneakers.
🌐 GOAT & StockX (Online) – Global sneaker marketplaces that ship to the UAE with authentication services for added security.
🛍 The Luxury Closet (Dubai & Online) – A resale platform offering designer sneakers and rare hype collaborations.
✅ Pro Tip: Always authenticate sneakers when buying from resellers. Use platforms like CheckCheck or LegitGrails to verify authenticity.
Final Thoughts: Sneaker Shopping in Dubai Like a Pro
If you’re serious about copping rare sneakers in Dubai, it’s all about strategy, connections, and early access. Follow boutique sneaker stores, enter raffles, and know where to resell safely—and you’ll be rocking the rarest kicks in the UAE in no time. Knowing how to sneaker-shop can make this process much easier.
📍 Which sneaker drop are you waiting for? Let us know!
Read more in our online magazine: 😎
https://whatshotinuae.com
Entrepreneur
How to Become a Nightlife Insider & Party Like a VIP in Dubai & Abu Dhabi
Dubai and Abu Dhabi boast some of the most exclusive nightlife experiences in the world, where A-list celebrities, high-rolling entrepreneurs, and socialites party in luxury. But getting past the velvet ropes and into the VIP section isn’t just about spending money—it’s about knowing the right people, choosing the best venues, and playing the game like a pro to become a nightlife insider.
Here’s how to navigate the UAE’s elite nightlife scene, make key connections, and party like a true insider.
1. How to Make Connections with Top Promoters & Club Owners
The biggest names in the nightlife scene—from international DJs to club owners—are always looking to fill their VIP sections with the right crowd. Here’s how to get noticed and secure invites to exclusive events.
🎟 Leverage Social Media & Club Promoters
✅ Follow Dubai’s biggest nightlife promoters on Instagram & TikTok. They regularly post about upcoming events and guest lists for high-end clubs.
✅ Engage with club managers & PR teams. If you want to get noticed, comment on their posts, share their events, and DM them politely asking about VIP access.
✅ Join WhatsApp & Facebook groups dedicated to nightlife and exclusive parties in Dubai & Abu Dhabi.
💼 Network at Industry Events & Launch Parties
✅ Attend luxury brand events, yacht parties, and hotel grand openings, where club owners and promoters frequently scout guests for their VIP lists.
✅ Stay connected with club hosts—many of them have private lists of exclusive gatherings.
🔑 Make Friends with the Right People
✅ Concierge services and elite networking groups often have direct access to club owners and can secure VIP bookings.
✅ Frequent top-tier lounges and pre-club spots like CÉ LA VI, Mimi Kakushi, and Zuma, where Dubai’s elite socialise before heading to the clubs.
2. Which Venues Offer the Best VIP Table Service & Hidden Perks?
Not all VIP sections are created equal. Some venues offer complimentary perks, the best bottle service, and exclusive areas where you’ll party with celebrities.
🔥 Top VIP Nightclubs & Party Destinations in Dubai & Abu Dhabi
💎 Ushuaïa Dubai Harbour Experience – The Ibiza-famous Ushuaïa is taking over Dubai with world-class DJs, beachside parties, and high-energy VIP experiences.
🏆 Soho Garden DXB – A hybrid superclub concept with multiple venues offering bespoke VIP experiences and exclusive tables with premium bottle service.
🎧 Billionaire Dubai – The go-to spot for luxury nightlife, offering a blend of high-end dining, live entertainment, and an elite nightclub experience.
🚀 1-OAK Dubai – One of the most exclusive clubs in the UAE, known for its lavish VIP service, top DJs, and celebrity-studded guest list.
✨ Sky2.0 – A futuristic nightlife venue in Dubai Design District, offering unparalleled production, extravagant shows, and a top-tier VIP lounge.
✅ Pro Tip: Want to secure the best VIP table? Book in advance through trusted concierge services or directly message club hosts for last-minute premium seating.
3. How to Navigate the Nightlife Scene Like a True UAE Party Pro
It’s not just about where you go—it’s how you play the game. Here’s how to move like a VIP and get the best experiences without overspending.
🏆 Master the Art of Entry & Guest Lists
✅ Arrive early—many clubs let VIPs in before peak hours to create the right atmosphere.
✅ Dress the part—Dubai’s top clubs enforce strict dress codes, so always opt for luxury fashion and polished looks.
✅ Travel with a balanced group—clubs prefer small groups with a mix of men and women for VIP entry.
🍾 Unlock Hidden Perks at Dubai’s Best Clubs
✅ Many clubs offer free VIP entry if you book tables or arrive with influencers and promoters.
✅ Ladies’ nights often include complimentary drinks, table service, and even limousine pickups for high-end guests.
✅ Some clubs offer loyalty perks—if you regularly book tables, expect free bottle upgrades, VIP seating, or priority reservations.
🚀 The Secret to Dubai’s Best After-Parties
✅ Many VIP events happen in private lounges, penthouses, or yacht parties. The key to getting invited? Social proof. If you’re seen at the right places, you’ll get access to even more exclusive events.
✅ Private clubs & secret bars like Salvaje, Galaxy Bar, and The Other Side cater to Dubai’s elite crowd—knowing a host or VIP member gets you instant access.
Final Thoughts: How to Become a True Nightlife Insider in the UAE
Dubai and Abu Dhabi’s nightlife scene is built on exclusivity, connections, and top-tier experiences. If you want to party like a VIP, you need to network smart, choose the right venues, and always look the part.
With the right club connections, promoter invites, and VIP bookings, you’ll never wait in line again.
🚀 What’s the next club on your list? Let us know!
Read more in our online magazine: 😎
https://whatshotinuae.com
Entrepreneur
How to Launch a Side Hustle in the UAE That Actually Makes Money
If you’re looking to launch a side hustle, the UAE is one of the fastest-growing digital economies in the world, making it the perfect place to start a profitable side hustle. Whether you’re looking to monetize your social media presence, start an online store, or break into the influencer economy, there are countless opportunities to turn your skills into income.
Here’s how to launch a side hustle in Dubai or Abu Dhabi that actually makes money.
1. Profitable Business Ideas for Dubai’s Growing Digital Economy
The UAE’s booming e-commerce, digital marketing, and influencer economy mean you don’t need a physical store or office to start making money. Here are some of the most profitable side hustles right now:
🚀 Freelancing & Digital Services
✅ Social Media Management – Brands are paying top dollar for experts who can grow their Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn presence.
✅ SEO & Digital Marketing Consulting – If you know how to rank websites on Google or run successful ad campaigns, there’s huge demand for your skills.
✅ Graphic Design & Video Editing – Content is king in Dubai, and businesses need high-quality visuals to stand out.
✅ Coding & App Development – The UAE’s tech startup scene is exploding, creating high-paying opportunities for freelance developers.
🛒 E-Commerce & Dropshipping
✅ Print-on-Demand (POD) – Sell custom t-shirts, mugs, and phone cases with zero upfront inventory using platforms like Redbubble or Printful.
✅ Dropshipping – Use platforms like Shopify and AliExpress to sell trending products without ever stocking inventory.
✅ Luxury Resale – Buy and resell designer sneakers, watches, and handbags using platforms like The Luxury Closet and MAD Kicks.
📱 Content Creation & Influencer Monetization
✅ Affiliate Marketing – Earn passive income by promoting Amazon UAE, Noon, and high-ticket affiliate products.
✅ YouTube & TikTok Monetization – UAE-based content creators are cashing in on brand deals and ad revenue by sharing lifestyle, tech, and finance content.
✅ Online Courses & Coaching – Teach your skills and sell exclusive training programs through Kajabi or Udemy.
2. How Influencers & Creators Are Monetizing Their Brands
Dubai is one of the best places in the world to become an influencer, with luxury brands, real estate companies, and hotels all investing in influencer marketing. Here’s how creators are making real money in the UAE:
💸 How to Get Paid as an Influencer in the UAE
✅ Brand Sponsorships – Top influencers in Dubai charge AED 5,000 – AED 100,000 per post for sponsored content.
✅ Exclusive Content & Subscription Models – Platforms like Patreon and OnlyFans allow influencers to monetize exclusive content.
✅ Affiliate Marketing – Many influencers earn passive income by linking to products and services they promote.
✅ Luxury Brand Ambassadorships – High-end brands like Gucci, Dior, and LV work with micro and macro-influencers in Dubai.
✅ Public Speaking & Masterclasses – Many creators turn their personal brand into a business by offering paid speaking gigs, workshops, and coaching services.
3. The Rise of E-Commerce, Dropshipping & Online Resale Markets
The UAE’s e-commerce sector is expected to hit $10 billion by 2025, making it one of the best places in the world to launch an online business.
🏆 How to Launch a Profitable E-Commerce Business in the UAE
✅ Sell High-Margin Niche Products – Focus on high-value markets like fitness gear, eco-friendly products, or tech accessories.
✅ Use UAE-Based Marketplaces – Sell on platforms like Noon, Amazon UAE, and Namshi to tap into local customers.
✅ Resell Limited-Edition Sneakers & Streetwear – The sneaker and streetwear resale market is booming, with platforms like MAD Kicks and Presentedby Dubai leading the way.
✅ Luxury Goods Resale – The UAE is one of the biggest markets for pre-owned designer handbags and watches. Platforms like The Luxury Closet and Vestiaire Collective make it easy to buy and resell for a profit.
Final Thoughts: How to Make Your Side Hustle a Success
Dubai’s fast-growing digital economy makes it one of the best places to launch a side hustle and build wealth. Whether you’re selling products, offering digital services, or monetizing your brand, the key is to stay consistent, network, and leverage the latest trends.
Are you ready to start making money on the side? 🚀
Read more in our online magazine: 😎
https://whatshotinuae.com
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