Corporate Compliance in a Fragmented Regulatory Landscape

Abstract

As multinational companies expand into diverse and rapidly evolving markets, legal and compliance teams face increasing pressure to navigate fragmented regulatory frameworks while upholding consistent global standards. This paper draws on practical, in market experience across the Gulf and the wider Middle East & Africa (MEA) region to examine the challenges associated with regulatory divergence. It explores shifting regulatory expectations, the operational barriers that hinder effective compliance implementation, and the growing importance of cross functional collaboration, digital transformation, and culture building in safeguarding organizations. The paper also introduces a pragmatic model designed to strengthen compliance maturity while maintaining business agility.