In October 2023, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) introduced a major transformation in its tax regulations by implementing Federal Decree-Law No. 47 of 2022 on the Taxation of Corporations and Businesses, commonly known as the Corporate Tax Law. This law sets the foundation for corporate tax in UAE, requiring businesses to register and file tax returns through the Federal Tax Authority (FTA). To comply with this law, businesses must undergo the corporate tax registration process and obtain a TRN number.
The Corporate Tax rules applies to various entities, including traditional companies, certain partnerships, unincorporated entities, and natural persons conducting corporate activities in the UAE. Both businesses within free zones and mainland UAE are liable to this law, depending on their nexus in the UAE. Tax year for each taxable person is determined annually, and compliance with corporate tax regulations is mandatory. Businesses need to register for corporate tax through the EmaraTax platform, ensuring their registration details are up to date via the EmaraTax portal. Additionally, tax agents are available to assist in the corporate tax registration application and ongoing tax compliance processes.
Businesses should note that failure to register for UAE corporate tax or meet deadlines for corporate tax returns may result in penalties. Tulpar Global Taxation offers expert assistance to guide you through the UAE corporate tax registration and tax filing processes. Our team ensures compliance with all UAE tax laws, including acquiring the necessary corporate tax registration number, managing permanent establishments in the UAE, and providing support for businesses to register for a corporate tax before the end of the tax year.
By partnering with Tulpar Global Taxation, you’ll receive guidance on understanding your obligations under the corporate tax rule, determining if your business is required to corporate tax, and completing the registration application with the FTA. Our experts help businesses navigate corporate tax in Dubai, ensuring compliance and helping you meet the relevant tax percentage requirements.
Whether you’re a startup or an established corporation, Tulpar Global Taxation will help you navigate the complexities of UAE’s corporate tax registration procedure and ensure that your tax returns are filed accurately. From obtaining your TRN number to managing your corporate taxes, we provide comprehensive support for all your taxation needs. Let us assist you with corporate tax registration in UAE using your UAE Pass and help your business stay controlled in the UAE and compliant with tax requirements.
Corporate Tax is a direct tax levied by the FTA on the taxable income of corporations, businesses, and certain individuals engaged in business activities within the UAE. This tax, often referred to as “Corporate Income Tax” or “Business Profits Tax” in other regions, is part of the Corporate tax regulations and is applicable to a broad range of UAE businesses. Taxable persons for corporate tax include companies, certain partnerships, unincorporated entities, and individuals that meet the corporate tax goals outlined in the tax framework.
To comply with the UAE Corporate tax regulations, businesses must register for a corporate tax. Tulpar Global Taxation provides expert corporate tax registration services, ensuring businesses comply with FTA requirements. The FTA issues guidance on how businesses can properly register corporate tax in UAE and meet their obligations for tax transparency. The direct tax imposed by the UAE government applies to a company’s net taxable income, and corporate tax goals include ensuring fair taxation based on business profits. Businesses are required to file their tax submissions based on the tax year, which is typically aligned with their financial year, usually spanning 12 months. Payment of corporate tax is due within nine months following the end of the relevant tax year, liable with UAE tax regulations.
The UAE’s corporate tax regime applies to tax year starting on or after June 1, 2023, meaning businesses must be proactive in understanding their obligations under the new tax laws. It is critical to register for a corporate tax within the timeframes set by the FTA. Tulpar Global Taxation offers comprehensive tax services, including the assistance of a qualified tax advisor to help businesses navigate the complexities of the UAE CT regime and meet their tax obligations. Ensure your business is fully compliant with the UAE corporate tax rule by partnering with Tulpar Global Taxation, a trusted provider of corporate tax registration services and expert guidance on all matters related to direct tax and tax transparency.
The corporate tax supports the UAE’s broader strategy of economic diversification, reducing dependency on hydrocarbon sectors and promoting growth in other industries such as technology, finance, and tourism.
In summary, the Corporate tax regulations in the UAE is designed to create a balanced and sustainable economic environment, fostering growth, fairness, and international alignment while funding essential public services and infrastructure.
The Corporate tax regulations in UAE established under Federal Decree-Law No. 47 of 2022, is a cornerstone of the country’s economic strategy, aimed at fostering fiscal sustainability, promoting economic diversification, and ensuring transparency in business operations. This legislation imposes a 9% tax on the taxable income of entities operating within the UAE, including corporations, partnerships, unincorporated businesses, and individual entrepreneurs with an exemption for income below AED 375,000 to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups.
Taxable income is determined by subtracting allowable deductions and adjustments from the gross income derived from business operations. These deductions encompass various expenses, such as operational costs, employee salaries, asset depreciation, and interest payments on business loans. The tax year typically aligns with the financial year of the entity, facilitating systematic tax assessment and collection.
The FTA maintains the corporate tax registration procedure, oversees compliance with the Corporate tax regulations, administers the tax regime, issues guidelines, and conducts audits. Non-compliance may result in penalties, including fines and interest charges. Additionally, the UAE has established Double Taxation Agreements (DTAs) with other jurisdictions to prevent the double taxation of income, fostering cross-border trade and investment.
In summary, Corporate tax regulations in UAE plays a vital role in shaping the country’s economic landscape, promoting fairness, transparency, and international cooperation in taxation. By adhering to these regulations, businesses contribute to the UAE’s economic growth and stability while benefiting from a conducive environment for investment and entrepreneurship.
In the UAE, there are primarily two categories of corporate tax regulations: corporate income tax and value-added tax (VAT).
Corporate income tax is a direct tax levied on the profits earned by businesses operating within the UAE. This tax applies to a wide range of entities and activities, and its implementation reflects the UAE’s commitment to aligning with international tax standards.
Taxable Entities: Corporate income tax applies to UAE-incorporated companies, including those in free zones, foreign branches, and certain unincorporated businesses.
Tax Rates: The standard corporate tax percentage is 9% on business profits exceeding a certain threshold, aimed at exempting small businesses and startups from the tax burden.
Exemptions: Certain sectors and types of income are exempt from corporate tax, such as income derived from dividends, capital gains under specific conditions, and qualifying income from certain government entities and non-profit organizations.
Annual Filing: Businesses are required to file annual tax submissions detailing their taxable income, allowable deductions, and applicable exemptions.
Tax Period: The tax year is generally the financial year or part thereof for which a tax submission needs to be filed.
Compliance and Penalties: The UAE FTA oversees the administration, ensuring compliance through audits and imposing penalties for non-compliance.
Value-added tax (VAT) is an indirect tax imposed on the consumption of goods and services. Implemented on January 1, 2018, VAT is part of the UAE’s strategy to diversify its revenue sources away from oil dependency.
Taxable Entities: All businesses engaged in the supply of taxable goods and services with annual turnover exceeding the mandatory registration threshold must register for VAT.
VAT Rates: The standard VAT rate is 5%. Certain goods and services may be zero-rated (0%) or exempt, depending on their nature and purpose.
Registration: Businesses must register for VAT if their taxable supplies and imports exceed the mandatory registration threshold. Voluntary registration is also allowed for businesses below the threshold.
Invoicing and Collection: VAT-registered businesses must issue VAT invoices for taxable supplies, collect VAT from customers, and remit it to the FTA.
Input VAT Recovery: Businesses can recover the VAT paid on business-related expenses (input VAT), provided they comply with the relevant conditions and documentation requirements.
Filing and Payment: VAT returns must be filed quarterly or monthly, depending on the turnover, and any VAT due must be paid within the specified deadlines.
While not traditionally classified under corporate tax, excise tax is another form of indirect tax that businesses in specific sectors need to be aware of. Introduced in 2017, it targets goods that are harmful to human health or the environment.
Taxable Goods: Excise tax applies to products such as tobacco, energy drinks, carbonated drinks, and other items deemed harmful.
Tax Rates: Excise tax percentages vary, typically ranging from 50% to 100% of the retail price, depending on the product.
Registration and Reporting: Businesses dealing in excisable goods must register with the FTA, file regular returns, and pay the excise tax due.
Compliance and Penalties: The FTA enforces compliance through audits and imposes penalties for non-compliance, including fines and possible criminal prosecution for severe breaches.
In summary, each of these corporate taxes serves different regulatory and economic purposes, from direct taxation of business profits to indirect taxation on consumption and harmful goods. Understanding these taxes is crucial for businesses operating in the UAE to ensure compliance, optimize tax planning, and contribute to the country’s economic objectives.
In the UAE, taxable persons liable to corporate tax include a wide range of entities engaged in corporate activities. These persons liable to corporate tax are required to register for the corporate tax and obtain a corporate tax TRN through the FTA. To comply with the UAE’s corporate tax laws, businesses must follow the registration procedure for corporate tax, which includes completing the necessary forms and submitting registration applications for corporate tax using either their credentials or the UAE Pass.
By partnering with Tulpar Global Taxation, businesses can navigate the UAE corporate tax regulations efficiently, ensuring compliance with all aspects of corporate tax Dubai, company tax UAE, and tax submissions for a tax year. We ensure that all businesses, whether local or international, are fully registered and compliant with the UAE’s corporate tax registry.
In the UAE, various entities and specific types of income are exempt from corporate tax to foster economic growth, attract foreign investment, and support strategic sectors. Understanding these exemptions is crucial for businesses to navigate the UAE’s tax landscape effectively. Here’s a look at exempt persons from corporate tax in Dubai:
Companies incorporated outside the UAE that do not have a permanent establishment or generate income within the country are generally exempt from corporate tax. This provision aims to attract international businesses to use the UAE as a hub for their operations without being taxed on their global income.
Businesses operating within designated free zones such as Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA), and Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) can benefit from corporate tax exemptions. These zones offer tax holidays that typically range from 15 to 50 years, liable to renewal. The exemptions are designed to attract foreign direct investment and promote economic activity in specific sectors.
Dividend Income: Dividends received by a UAE-resident company from another UAE-resident company may be exempt from corporate tax. This exemption avoids double taxation on corporate profits distributed as dividends.
Capital Gains: Capital gains earned from the sale of shares in UAE-resident companies are often exempt from corporate tax. This exemption encourages investment in the UAE’s corporate sector.
Interest and Other Specified Income: Certain types of interest and specified income may also be exempt, especially if they are earned in contexts that promote economic activities and investments.
Federal and Emirate Governments are generally exempt from corporate tax on income derived from government activities. However, commercial activities conducted by these entities may still be dependent to taxation to ensure fair competition with private-sector businesses.
Non-profit organizations, including charities, foundations, and associations that engage in charitable, religious, educational, or social welfare activities, are typically exempt from corporate tax. These exemptions enable these organizations to direct more resources toward their social and humanitarian missions.
The UAE has signed numerous double taxation treaties with other countries to prevent double taxation of income. These treaties often provide exemptions or reduced tax percentage on certain types of income, such as royalties, dividends, and interest, earned by foreign companies operating in the UAE.
The UAE may offer specific exemptions or reduced tax percentage for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) based on annual turnover thresholds. This approach supports entrepreneurship and the growth of SMEs by reducing their tax burden during the initial stages of their development.
Investment funds that meet specific criteria, such as those that invest in UAE assets or certain sectors, may be exempt from corporate tax. These exemptions are designed to attract investment and promote the development of the financial services sector.
Agricultural and Fisheries Activities: Income derived from specific agricultural and fisheries activities may be exempt to support the sustainability and growth of these sectors.
Cultural, Artistic, and Sports Activities: Entities involved in promoting cultural, artistic, and sports activities may also qualify for exemptions, encouraging the development of these sectors.
These exemptions are tailored to promote economic growth, attract foreign investment, and support strategic sectors. Businesses operating in the UAE should stay informed about the specific criteria and conditions for these exemptions to ensure compliance and optimize their tax planning strategies.
Incorporated partnerships and unincorporated partnerships are two distinct forms of business structures that differ significantly in terms of legal status, liability, regulatory requirements, and tax treatment. Understanding these differences is crucial for business owners when deciding on the most suitable structure for their operations.
Incorporated partnerships are business entities that have undergone formal registration and incorporation, typically with a government authority or relevant regulatory body. They possess a distinct legal identity separate from their owners.
Key Features of Incorporated Partnerships include:
Legal Entity: An incorporated partnership is a separate legal entity from its partners. It can own property, enter into contracts, and sue or be sued in its own name.
Limited Liability: Partners in an incorporated partnership generally enjoy limited liability, meaning their personal assets are protected from the business’s debts and obligations. Their liability is typically limited to their investment in the partnership.
Regulatory Requirements: Incorporation involves compliance with specific regulatory requirements, including registration with governmental authorities, ongoing reporting, and adherence to corporate governance standards.
Taxation: Incorporated partnerships are often taxed as corporations, meaning the partnership itself pays taxes on its profits. In some jurisdictions, shareholders may also pay taxes on dividends received.
Perpetual Existence: Incorporated partnerships have perpetual existence, meaning they continue to exist even if partners leave or new partners join. The entity remains unaffected by changes in ownership.
Unincorporated partnerships are business structures where two or more individuals engage in business together without formal incorporation. These partnerships are typically based on agreements between the partners.
Key Features of Unincorporated Partnerships include:
No Separate Legal Entity: Unincorporated partnerships do not have a separate legal identity from their partners. The business and its partners are legally indistinguishable.
Unlimited Liability: Partners in an unincorporated partnership have unlimited liability. They are personally liable for the debts and obligations of the business, and their personal assets can be used to satisfy business debts.
Simpler Regulatory Requirements: These partnerships are easier to form and operate, with fewer regulatory and administrative requirements compared to incorporated entities.
Taxation: Income generated by the partnership is typically taxed as the personal income of the partners. The partnership itself does not pay taxes; instead, profits and losses are passed through to the partners.
Limited Lifespan: Unincorporated partnerships often dissolve when a partner leaves or dies, unless an agreement specifies otherwise.
In conclusion, the choice between incorporated and unincorporated partnerships depends on factors such as liability preferences, regulatory tolerance, tax considerations, and business continuity needs. Business owners operating within the UAE must carefully assess their specific circumstances and goals to determine the most suitable structure for their partnership.
Taxable income refers to the net income of a taxable person that is liable to corporate tax. It is the portion of a business’s or individual’s income that is liable to tax, after accounting for allowable deductions, exemptions, and adjustments. Taxable income is calculated by subtracting allowable deductions and exemptions from the gross income earned during the tax year.
Key components of Taxable income include:
Gross Income: This includes income generated from the core corporate activities, business profits, services rendered, dividends, interest, royalties, and capital gains derived from investments, rental income, and other operational revenues/ earnings.
Allowable Deductions: includes costs incurred in the ordinary course of business, such as salaries, rent, utilities, and supplies, deduction for the wear and tear of tangible assets, interest paid on business loans, bad debts that have been written off as uncollectible, and R&D expenses.
Non-Deductible Expenses: Includes personal expenses not related to the business operations, such as personal travel or entertainment, fines and penalties, and non-business-related expenses.
Exemptions and Adjustments: These include income exempt from tax such as qualifying dividends and capital gains, loss carryforwards, and special allowances.
Taxable income is calculated by subtracting allowable deductions and exemptions from the gross income of a business or individual. The formula is:
Taxable Income = Gross Income – Allowable Deductions – Exemptions + Adjustments
To calculate this, let’s take for instance a manufacturing company with a gross income of AED 10,000,000, Allowable deductions of AED 4,000,000 (including salaries, rent, utilities, and raw materials), Exempt income of AED 500,000 with qualifying dividends and a Loss Carryforward of AED 1,000,000. To calculate this company’s taxable income for the year, we simply calculate:
Taxable Income: AED 10,000,000 – AED 4,000,000 – AED 500,000 – AED 1,000,000 = AED 4,500,000
The taxable income in this case amounts to AED 4,500,000
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Tax Year: A tax period in the UAE is the specific time frame during which a taxable person must calculate and report their income to determine the corporate tax due. Typically, the tax year aligns with the financial year of the business.
For most businesses, this is a 12-month period, but it can also be a shorter period if the business starts or ends operations partway through a financial year. Businesses must file their corporate tax filings within nine months of the end of their tax year.
Certain types of income are exempt from corporate tax in Dubai. These exemptions are designed to encourage investment and economic growth in specific sectors. Exempt income includes:
Dividends: Dividends received from UAE companies and foreign subsidiaries are generally exempt from corporate tax.
Capital Gains: Gains from the sale of shares in a subsidiary are typically exempt, provided certain conditions are met.
Income from Participating Interests: Income from qualifying participations, where the UAE company holds a significant stake in a foreign company, may be exempt.
Income from Overseas Permanent Establishments: Profits from a UAE company’s foreign branches may be exempt if they meet specific criteria.
Deductions are expenses that can be subtracted from a company’s gross income to determine its taxable income. The UAE allows several types of deductions to encourage corporate activities and reduce the tax burden:
Operational Expenses: Ordinary and necessary business expenses, such as rent, utilities, salaries, and other operating costs.
Depreciation: A deduction for the wear and tear of business assets over time.
Interest Expenses: Interest paid on business loans can be deducted, liable to certain limitations.
Bad Debts: Specific provisions for debts that are deemed uncollectible.
Research and Development (R&D): Expenses related to R&D activities that contribute to economic development are deductible.
Small business relief plays a crucial role in supporting the growth and sustainability of small businesses in the UAE by reducing their corporate income tax burden. In line with the corporate tax regime, small businesses with taxable income below a specified threshold may qualify for relief, which is particularly beneficial in both the mainland and corporate tax UAE free zones. This relief helps small businesses in Dubai and other emirates manage their tax liabilities and comply with corporation tax obligations.
For businesses in the corporate tax in Dubai free zone, relief may come in the form of reduced tax percentages, simplified filing procedures, or exemptions from certain compliance obligations. These benefits are determined by the FTA, so businesses must stay updated on the corporate tax registration deadline and ensure they meet the Corporate Tax Registration Last Date. Detailed records of financial statements, income, expenses, and deductions are necessary to ensure accurate corporate tax filings. Companies that need to register for a corporate tax must follow the process laid out by the FTA corporate tax guidelines. The corporate tax registration in Dubai and the broader corporate tax UAE registration procedure require businesses to meet deadlines and obtain a TRN number. Non-resident juridical persons, foreign entities, and other legal persons conducting business in UAE must also register and comply with the corporate tax percentage regulations.
Tulpar Global Taxation Services offers expert assistance with corporate tax registration and provides a range of corporate tax services tailored to businesses operating in both mainland and free zone areas. Whether you need help with corporate tax for free zone persons, or are seeking advice from a corporate tax consultant, Tulpar Global Taxation can guide you through every step of the process, from meeting the corporate tax registration deadline UAE to accurate corporate tax filing.
Businesses in the UAE can take advantage of small business relief to reduce their tax burden, provided they comply with the Gregorian calendar tax year requirements, and meet the obligations set forth by the FTA. Understanding the regulations for taxable persons and legal entities helps businesses align with the UAE’s corporate tax rules, benefiting from the available relief while ensuring compliance.
Registering for corporate tax in Dubai involves a series of steps that businesses must follow to ensure compliance with the UAE FTA requirements. Here is a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to help you navigate through this corporate tax registration application process effectively:
Before starting the registration proocedure, the first step is to determine if your business is required to register for a corporate tax. Generally, all UAE-resident companies, including those in free zones, foreign companies with a permanent establishment in the UAE, and certain individuals conducting corporate activities, need to register if their taxable income exceeds AED 375,000 per year.
To begin the registration procedure, ensure you have the following documents:
Passport copies of the license owner and shareholders
Emirates ID of the license owner and shareholders
Valid trade license details
Company contact details (email, phone)
Financial statements or audit reports (if applicable)
Bank account details
Contact details of authorized representatives
Memorandum and Articles of Association
Certificate of Incorporation
Visit the EmaraTax platform on the Federal Tax Authority’s website to create an account or log in using an existing account. Once you’ve logged in, navigate to the corporate tax section. On the dashboard, select “Corporate Tax” from the main menu and click on “Register for a Corporate Tax”. Next, complete the registration form with the following information:
Basic Information: Company name, legal form, trade license number.
Contact Information: Address, phone number, and email.
Business Activities: Nature of corporate activities.
Shareholders and Managers: Details of shareholders and managers, including passport copies and Emirates IDs.
Financial Information: Financial year details, annual turnover, and bank account information.
Once the registration form is completed and all required documents are uploaded, submit your application through the EmaraTax portal. The Federal tax Authority typically processes registration applications within 20 business days.
Upon approval, you will receive a TRN from the Federal Tax Authority. This number is your official identifier for corporate tax goals and must be used for filing annual tax submissions and complying with corporate tax regulations in the UAE
Businesses must register for corporate tax by specific deadlines based on their license issuance month. For example, companies licensed in January or February must register by May 31, 2024.
The deadline for filing a corporate tax submission is within nine months from the end of the tax year. Failure to register or file on time can result in penalties, including an initial penalty of AED 10,000 for late registration.
Register Early: If you anticipate your business income will exceed AED 375,000, it’s advisable to register early to ensure compliance and to become familiar with the system.
Seek Professional Advice: Given the complexities of tax regulations, consulting a registered tax agent or advisor can be invaluable for navigating the registration process and ensuring ongoing compliance
These terms cover the essential concepts of corporate tax in Dubai, helping businesses navigate the complexities of the tax system effectively.
Understanding corporate tax in Dubai involves familiarizing yourself with a range of terms and concepts. Here are the top terms you should know:
Tulpar Global Taxation Services is here to assist with all aspects of corporate tax compliance, from registration to filing returns. Our expert tax advisors ensure your corporation meets all regulatory requirements while optimizing tax strategies to align with your business goals. Contact us today to learn how we can help you navigate the UAE’s corporate tax landscape.
Tulpar Global Taxation is a leading auditing firm in Dubai, specializing in taxation, accounting, and auditing services. They offer a comprehensive range of services, including tax agency support, corporate tax registration, and tax consultation. Their expertise covers company tax submission, corporate tax liabilities, and financial reporting standards, helping businesses comply with the UAE’s regulatory requirements.
How Tulpar Global Taxation Can Assist with Corporate Tax Registration:
Partner with Tulpar Global Taxation for Tax Compliance Success: With a commitment to high standards, Tulpar Global Taxation Services offers full support for corporate tax registration, tax planning, and compliance with corporate returns. Contact them today to ensure your corporation meets UAE tax regulations and optimizes its financial standing.
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