Corporate Tax Services

Corporate Tax Services in Dubai

What is the Corporate Tax in the UAE?

On June 1, 2023, the UAE introduced a corporate tax policy that imposes a 9% tax on business profits exceeding AED 375,000 ($100,000). This move marks a significant shift in the country’s corporate tax framework, which historically offered a tax-free environment for most businesses.

Companies generating less than AED 375,000 in annual profits remain exempt from this tax, allowing smaller businesses and startups to continue benefiting from favorable conditions, making corporate tax services essential for businesses navigating these new regulations.

However, multinational corporations with profits exceeding AED 2.9 billion ($793 million) are subject to a higher tax rate of 15%. This aligns with the Global Minimum Corporate Tax Rate Agreement, an international initiative aimed at preventing large multinational corporations from shifting profits to low-tax jurisdictions.

The UAE’s adoption of this framework demonstrates its commitment to global standards while ensuring it remains an attractive destination for foreign investment and international business activities, where corporate tax consultants in Dubai can offer valuable advice.

The introduction of this tax regime represents a key milestone in the UAE's economic strategy, aimed at broadening its revenue base beyond oil while maintaining its competitive edge as a global business hub. 

The corporate tax applies to profits earned from the financial year starting on or after June 1, 2023. For companies whose tax year begins in January, the corporate tax will be levied on revenues generated from January 1, 2024, onwards. This phased approach allows businesses time to adapt to the new regulations with the help of corporate tax advisory services, ensuring necessary accounting and financial adjustments.

The introduction of this corporate tax regime represents a key milestone in the UAE's economic strategy, aimed at broadening its revenue base beyond oil while maintaining its competitive edge as a global business hub. Corporate tax services will play a critical role in helping businesses understand and comply with these changes.

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What are the Corporate Tax Brackets in the UAE?

Companies with annual net profits up to AED 375,000
Tax Rate: 0%

Businesses earning up to AED 375,000 in annual profits are exempt from corporate tax and are not required to pay any tax on their income.

Companies with annual net profits greater than AED 375,000
Tax Rate: 9%

For businesses with net profits exceeding AED 375,000 annually, a 9% corporate tax rate is applied to the profits above this threshold.

Multinational Corporations with profits exceeding AED 3.01 billion
Tax Rate: 15%

Multinational companies with profits surpassing AED 3.01 billion ($819 million) are subject to a 15% corporate tax, in line with the Global Minimum Corporate Tax Rate Agreement.

What Businesses are Exempt from the Corporate Tax Laws?

Any business generating less than AED 375,000 ($100,000) in profits.
Any government institution and organization
Any business that promotes social and charitable issues.
Any business directly owned and controlled by the UAE government.
Any business involved in mining or extractive activities.
Any regulated governmental or private organizations that deal with social benefit funds, such as retirement or pension plans.
Any regulated real estate investment fund.
Exemptions to the Corporate Tax Laws

What is the Difference Between Corporate Tax and VAT?

While corporate tax is a direct tax imposed on a company's profits, calculated annually based on income after deducting expenses, corporate tax advisory services help businesses ensure accurate filings. Businesses are responsible for submitting corporate tax returns to comply with government regulations.
In contrast, VAT is an indirect tax levied on the sale of goods and services at each stage of the supply chain. Businesses collect VAT from customers and remit it to the government. 

Unlike corporate tax, which is filed annually, VAT is typically paid at the point of sale and reported more frequently, such as quarterly or monthly. A corporate tax consultant in Dubai can help clarify the differences between these taxes for businesses navigating both.

What is the corporate tax for free zone businesses?

Under the UAE's new corporate tax framework introduced in June 2023, businesses in free zones can maintain their tax-free status if they meet specific conditions.
While free zone companies still benefit from a 0% corporate tax rate on qualifying income generated outside the UAE or within the free zone, they must be aware of the regulations.

If a free zone business conducts transactions with the mainland or generates non-qualifying income, a 9% corporate tax rate applies to that portion of profits. For businesses in free zones seeking professional advice on tax matters, corporate tax advisory services from expert corporate tax consultants in Dubai can help ensure full compliance with the new laws. 

Regardless of their tax rate, all free zone businesses must comply with filing requirements, including submitting corporate tax returns to adhere to UAE regulations. Overall, while free zone businesses can enjoy tax incentives, compliance with corporate tax laws is essential.

Types of Free Zones Based On Taxes

Corporate Tax for Free Zone Businesses

Designated Free Zones

Designated free zones offer a 0% corporate tax rate for a certain period, no customs duties, and 100% foreign ownership. Transactions within these zones are also VAT-exempt under UAE law.

For businesses operating within these zones, transactions involving goods and services can be VAT-free when conducted within or between other designated zones. 

This makes them attractive to logistics, manufacturing, and trading companies. Designated free zones also typically offer a 0% corporate tax rate for a certain period, no customs duties, and 100% foreign ownership.

Examples: Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA), Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA), and Abu Dhabi Airport Free Zone (ADAFZ).

Non-Designated Free Zones

Non-designated free zones, though still providing the usual free zone benefits such as no corporate tax for a specified time, may not offer VAT exemptions.

Corporate tax consultants in Dubai can guide businesses in non-designated zones on managing VAT payments and corporate tax returns. These zones still provide no customs duties and 100% foreign ownership, making them attractive for various industries.

Businesses here still benefit from simplified setup processes and specific industry-focused support.

Examples: Dubai Media City (DMC), Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC), Ajman Free Zone.

Corporate Tax for Freelancers

What is the corporate tax for freelancers?

Freelancers in the UAE must obtain a professional business license, classifying them as legal entities for tax purposes. Unlike individual income, which is generally tax-free, freelancers are subject to a 9% corporate tax on profits exceeding AED 375,000 (approximately $100,000). 

Profits below this threshold are exempt from corporate tax, allowing small-scale freelancers to operate without significant tax burdens. Freelancers are still required to comply with UAE corporate tax regulations. Corporate tax advisory services are beneficial for freelancers looking to understand their tax obligations.

They will pay a 9% corporate tax only on earnings above AED 375,000. Corporate tax consultants in Dubai can assist freelancers in managing their tax filings and ensuring full compliance with corporate tax laws.

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Advantages of Corporate Tax Services

Expert Guidance 

Corporate tax services provide specialized knowledge and expertise, ensuring compliance with the latest tax laws and regulations.

Maximized Deductions

Tax professionals help identify eligible deductions and credits, reducing the overall tax liability for the business.

Time Savings

Outsourcing corporate tax preparation allows businesses to focus on core operations while tax experts handle the complexities of tax filing.

Reduced Risk of Errors

Professional tax services minimize the risk of errors or omissions in tax filings, helping to avoid potential audits and penalties.

Strategic Tax Planning

Tax professionals assist in developing effective tax strategies that align with the company’s financial goals and operational plans.

Audit Support

In the event of an audit, corporate tax services provide support and representation, ensuring that all documentation is accurate and available.

Regulatory Compliance

They ensure that businesses adhere to all tax regulations, avoiding legal issues and maintaining good standing with tax authorities.

Financial Forecasting

Corporate tax services help in projecting future tax obligations, enabling better financial planning and cash flow management.

Our Corporate Tax Services in Dubai, UAE

01. Corporate Tax Advice

We provide comprehensive corporate tax advisory services, including an analysis of business activities to determine which tax bracket your business falls under.
Our corporate tax consultants in Dubai assess whether your business qualifies for tax exemptions and offer tailored recommendations on how to benefit from applicable tax laws.

02. Registration for Corporate Tax

We assist businesses with filing their corporate tax with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA). Our corporate tax services include managing all required documentation and meeting important deadlines for tax-related obligations.

03. Corporate Tax Returns

We offer corporate tax advisory services to help prepare and file tax returns promptly, ensuring compliance with UAE tax laws and regulations.

04. Exempted Revenue

Our corporate tax consultants in Dubai assess business revenue to identify income streams that are exempt from tax liability, ensuring that tax payments are accurate and compliant.

05. Transfer Pricing Documents

We provide corporate tax services for the preparation and maintenance of necessary documentation to ensure compliance with transfer pricing regulations, governing the pricing of transactions between related business entities.

06. Violations & Penalties

Our corporate tax consultants in Dubai guide businesses through corporate tax-related violations and penalties, offering corrective actions and strategies to avoid future issues with the tax authorities.

Corporate Tax Procedure in the UAE

Timeline: 6 to 10 weeks

01 Assessment of Tax Obligations

A tax consultant conducts a thorough analysis of your business activities, financial records, and relevant data to determine which taxes your business is liable for under UAE regulations.

Takes 1 to 2 weeks 

02 Tax Planning

The consultant then explores tax-saving strategies, reviewing opportunities to legally minimize your tax liabilities and optimize your financial structure.

Takes 1 to 2 weeks 

03  Filing of Tax Returns

Accurate and compliant corporate tax returns are prepared, along with audited financial reports. The consultant ensures that all filings are submitted on time and following UAE tax laws.

Takes 3 to 4 weeks 

04 Payment of Taxes

The required corporate taxes are paid promptly, ensuring accuracy in the calculations and avoiding any penalties or late fees.

Takes 1 day

05 Representation in Tax Audits

In the event of a government tax audit, the tax consultant will represent your business, providing expert guidance to ensure a smooth and efficient audit process.

Varies (if applicable)

06 Ongoing Support and Advice

Continuous support is offered to address tax-related concerns, ensuring your business remains in compliance with tax laws and regulations while adapting to any changes in the tax landscape.

Continuous

Documents Required for Corporate Tax

Document Description
Business License Valid business license copy.
Tax Registration Certificate Evidence of VAT registration (if applicable).
Financial Statements Audited financial statements for the last year.
Tax Returns Copies of previously filed tax returns.
Ownership Documents ID and passport copies of shareholders and directors.
Contracts Relevant contracts impacting tax liabilities.
Bank Statements Bank statements for the financial year.
Expense Records Invoices and receipts for business expenses.
VAT Returns Copies of filed VAT returns.
Governance Documents Board resolutions and meeting minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the corporate tax rate in Dubai?
Who is subject to corporate tax in Dubai?
When did corporate tax come into effect in Dubai?
Is personal income subject to corporate tax in Dubai?
How often do businesses need to file corporate tax returns?
What is the threshold for businesses to be exempt from corporate tax?
Are businesses in free zones required to pay corporate tax?
What are the transfer pricing rules in Dubai?
How can businesses reduce their corporate tax liability?
What impact will corporate tax have on businesses in Dubai?