Year-End Preparation for Corporate Tax Filing in the UAE
Introduction The corporate tax return filing season begins once your financial year ends. UAE businesses must complete year-end closing and prepare for submission to avoid errors and penalties. Here’s a practical checklist to help you prepare your tax return efficiently. Year-End Tax Preparation Checklist Pro Tips Final Thoughts Year-end tax filing isn’t just a formality […]
Corporate Tax for Investment Funds & Trusts in the UAE
Introduction Investment funds, REITs, and family trusts are increasingly used for capital preservation and wealth management. UAE Corporate Tax Law provides a conditional exemption for these vehicles. This blog outlines the tax rules for investment structures and how to qualify for exemptions. Investment Funds Exemption Investment funds are exempt if: Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) REITs […]
Corporate Tax Impact on SMEs and Startups in the UAE
Introduction Startups and Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) are the backbone of the UAE’s economy. The introduction of Corporate Tax raised concerns about compliance costs, but the government introduced measures like Small Business Relief to support entrepreneurs. In this blog, we explore how the tax applies to small businesses and what relief options exist. Small Business […]
Upcoming Corporate Tax Incentives in the UAE (2025 Outlook)
Introduction While Corporate Tax has introduced new compliance obligations, the UAE government is also offering strategic incentives to encourage innovation, investment, and national development. This blog highlights the confirmed and expected tax incentives businesses should prepare to take advantage of in 2025. Key Corporate Tax Incentives (Current & Expected) 1. Small Business Relief 2. Free Zone Incentives […]
income is treated under UAE
Introduction In line with the global tax reform initiative led by the OECD/G20 Inclusive Framework, the UAE will implement the Global Minimum Tax (GMT) under Pillar Two starting January 1, 2025. This marks a major shift in the UAE’s tax landscape, especially for large multinational enterprise groups (MNEs) operating in the country. This blog explains how the […]
Foreign Branch Income and Double Tax Relief in the UAE
Introduction Many UAE businesses operate branches or permanent establishments outside the country. Under the UAE Corporate Tax regime, these entities must assess whether income from foreign branches should be taxed in the UAE or if they can claim an exemption or tax credit to avoid double taxation. This blog explains the options available for foreign […]
Exempt Income & Allowed Deductions Under UAE Corporate Tax
Introduction Under the UAE Corporate Tax regime, businesses can exclude certain types of income from taxation and deduct qualifying expenses to reduce taxable income. Knowing what qualifies as exempt income and deductible expenses is key to tax planning and compliance. What is Exempt Income? Certain categories of income are not subject to tax: Exempt income must still […]
How to Claim Group Relief and Tax Credits in the UAE
Introduction Group structures are common across the UAE business landscape, and the Corporate Tax Law provides opportunities for tax relief within qualifying groups. In addition, UAE businesses earning income abroad can claim foreign tax credits to avoid double taxation. This blog explains how group relief, tax grouping, and foreign tax credits work under UAE law in 2025. What […]
Corporate Tax Filing Requirements & Deadlines in the UAE
Introduction Corporate Tax in the UAE became effective from June 1, 2023, and businesses across all sectors are now required to comply with filing and reporting obligations. Whether you’re a mainland entity, Free Zone company, or a freelancer, it’s important to understand when and how to file your corporate tax return to avoid fines and […]
Corporate Tax Penalties for Non-Compliance in the UAE
Introduction With the full enforcement of the UAE Corporate Tax regime, businesses must not only register but also comply with all reporting and filing obligations. The Federal Tax Authority (FTA) has introduced a structured penalty system to enforce compliance. Understanding these penalties can help you avoid unnecessary financial losses and stay on the right side of […]
How to Apply for VAT Refund in UAE: Step-by-Step Guide (2025)
What is a VAT Refund? A VAT refund allows eligible individuals and businesses to reclaim excess input VAT paid on expenses that exceed their output VAT during a tax period. Instead of carrying forward the balance, you can request a refund from the Federal Tax Authority (FTA). Who Can Claim a VAT Refund? Businesses […]
UAE VAT Penalties: Updated List and How to Avoid Them (2025)
Why Do VAT Penalties Occur? The Federal Tax Authority (FTA) imposes administrative penalties to enforce compliance with UAE VAT laws. These penalties apply for: Missing deadlines Filing incorrect returns Delayed payments Failure to maintain proper records Non-compliance may also trigger audits or blocking of refund claims. Updated VAT Penalties in UAE (As of 2025) […]
