What are the FAQs for Corporate Tax in the UAE?

As of 21 July 2024 by AccountAbility Team

Going through Corporate Tax Law may seem complex, but with AccountAbility, you’re on the right path. Whether you’re a mainland company or a free zone business, Corporate Tax Registration is MANDATORY for all businesses in the UAE.

I. Introduction to Corporate Tax

1. What is Corporate Tax?

Corporate Tax is a tax on the profit of businesses. It’s like a portion of a company’s earnings that goes to the government.

2. Why is the UAE introducing Corporate Tax?

To align with international practices, enhance transparency, and support the UAE’s growth as a global business hub.

3. When does UAE Corporate Tax start?

From June 1, 2023, for financial years starting on or after that date.

II. Taxable Entities and Rates

4. Who needs to pay Corporate Tax?

All UAE-incorporated businesses and foreign companies with a taxable presence in the UAE must pay Corporate Tax. Natural persons are taxed only if they’re involved in business activities.

5. What are the UAE Corporate Tax rates?
  • 0% for profits up to AED 375,000
  • 9% for profits above AED 375,000
  • 0% on qualifying income for free zone businesses
6. How can you determine if a business is 0% or 9%? 

Businesses are taxed at 0% on profits up to AED 375,000 and 9% on profits above AED 375,000.

7. How is taxable income calculated? 

Taxable income is calculated based on the accounting profits of the business, with adjustments for specific exempt income and non-deductible expenses. The tax year is generally the calendar year unless the business opts for a different financial year.

8. What are the basic requirements? 

Trade license, company information such as address, number, and other necessary documents, proof of identification such as passport and Emirates ID, personal information, and other significant details.

III. Exemptions and Special Cases

9. Who is exempted from Corporate Tax?

Certain entities like government bodies, extractive businesses, and public benefit organizations are exempt from Corporate Tax.

10. How does Corporate Tax affect free zone businesses?

Free zone businesses can benefit from a 0% tax rate on qualifying income if they meet all regulatory requirements.

IV. Compliance and Registration

11. Do mainland and free zone companies in the UAE need to pay Corporate Tax

Yes, mainland and Free Zone companies in the UAE are subject to Corporate Tax on their taxable income.

12. How do businesses comply with Corporate Tax rules?

Businesses must register with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA), keep accurate financial records, and file an annual tax return.

13. Can businesses carry forward losses?

Yes, losses can be carried forward to offset future taxable income.

14. What happens if the businesses don’t comply?

There are penalties for non-compliance, which include fines for late registration, late filing, incorrect information, and non-payment of taxes due. Penalties can vary depending on the severity and nature of the non-compliance.

15. How long does the registration process take?

The registration process duration can vary as it takes a minimum of 20 days for the process to be completed but businesses are advised to register as soon as they are eligible to ensure compliance.

16. How to register from Corporate Tax?

Businesses can register for Corporate Tax with the Federal Tax Authority by providing the necessary information and documentation.

17. Is there a difference between Corporate Tax Registration and Filing?

Yes, corporate tax filing is different from corporate tax registration. Corporate Tax Registration is the process of enrolling a business with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) to obtain a tax registration number (TRN) while Corporate Tax Filing involves submitting the required tax returns and related documents to the FTA by eligible businesses. This is an ongoing obligation that businesses must fulfill periodically, usually on an annual basis.

18. When can companies register for corporate tax? 

Depends on the Trade License issuance date. Each issuance date has a corresponding corporate tax deadline date provided by the FTA.

19. How much is the penalty? 

There is specific fine assigned for very violation. One of the penalties (for late registration) is 10,000 AED.  

20. What are the filing requirements for Corporate Tax? 

Businesses are required to register for corporate tax and file annual tax returns. The tax return must include financial statements and other relevant documents. The deadline for filing is nine months after the end of the relevant financial year.

V. Taxable Income and Periods

21. How is taxable income determined for Corporate Tax?

It’s the net profit in financial statements, adjusting for specific items as per the law.

22. What are the documentation requirements?

Businesses need to keep detailed records of their financial transactions, including income and expenses, for at least seven years.

23. What is a tax period?

The Tax Period is the financial year used for preparing statements, usually from January to December

VI. What is the Role of Authorities?

24. What’s the role of the Federal Tax Authority (FTA)?

They manage and collect Corporate Tax and other federal taxes.

25. What is the role of Ministry of Finance? 

They handle tax agreements and international information exchange, and issue regulations for Corporate Tax.

VII. Differences between Corporate Tax and Value Added Tax?

26. What is the difference between VAT and Corporate Tax?

VAT is a tax on the consumption of goods and services, while Corporate Tax is a tax on the profit a business makes.

27. If I have registered for VAT, do I need to register for Corporate Tax or vice versa?

Yes, businesses need to register separately for VAT and Corporate Tax as they are different types of taxes. 

VIII. What is Small Business Relief?

28. What is the small business relief?

Small Business Relief in the UAE is a tax relief initiative designed to support small businesses by reducing or exempting them from corporate tax, thereby fostering growth and sustainability.

29. Who qualifies for Small Business Relief in the UAE? 

Businesses that have an annual turnover of 3,000,000 AED or below qualify for Small Business Relief.

30. How can a small business apply for this relief?

To apply for Small Business Relief, eligible businesses must make an election when they file for tax return.

31.What documents are needed for the application?

The required documents generally include financial statements, proof of revenue, trade licenses, and other relevant business records.

32. What is the deadline for applying for Small Business Relief?

Small Business Relief is available until December 31, 2026

33. What is the tax rate for small businesses under this relief?

Under the Small Business Relief initiative, eligible small businesses may benefit from a 0% corporate tax rate, effectively exempting them from corporate tax for the relief period.

34. Are there any restrictions or limitations on the relief provided?

Yes, there may be restrictions based on business size, revenue limits, and the nature of the business activities. Specific details are outlined in the FTA’s regulations and guidelines.

35. Where can I get more information or assistance with the application process?

More information and assistance can be obtained from the FTA’s official website, licensed tax consultants, or legal advisors specializing in UAE corporate tax.

How can  Accountability help you?

Our team offers initial consultations and advisory services on the corporate tax implications that helps businesses understand and comply with Corporate Tax regulations to maintain precise records and prepare for tax registration and filings. With over a decade of expertise, we offer accurate documents assessment and on-time application, avoiding any penalties and guaranteeing compliance. 

If you have any questions or need further information, please book your free consultation with us at +971 50 6235061 or info@accountbility.ae.

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