The UAE has long been known for its favorable tax environment, which has made it a popular destination for both local and international businesses. For years, the country has maintained a reputation for having low taxes, particularly with its lack of corporate and income taxes. However, in recent years, the UAE government has introduced several changes to its tax regime, aiming to diversify the economy and meet international standards.

In this blog, we will take a detailed look at the taxes applicable to companies in the UAE, including the recent reforms and what businesses should know to stay compliant.

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1. Corporate Tax in the UAE

Until recently, the UAE did not impose a federal corporate tax on businesses, except in certain sectors like oil and gas and foreign banks. However, the introduction of a corporate tax regime in 2023 marked a significant shift. The new corporate tax laws apply to most businesses, but with several exceptions and varying rates depending on the company's income.

Corporate Tax Rate

• 9% Tax Rate: The standard corporate tax rate is 9% for taxable profits exceeding AED 375,000.
• 0% Tax Rate: Companies with taxable profits of up to AED 375,000 will not be subject to corporate tax. This is a key measure aimed at supporting small businesses and startups.
• Special Tax Rates for Certain Industries: Companies in specific industries, such as oil, gas, and banking, may be subject to higher corporate tax rates, as per the terms of their agreements with the government.

This corporate tax is applied on the company’s net profits, which means that the tax will be calculated after deducting expenses, such as operating costs and business losses carried forward from previous years.

Exemptions

• Free Zone Companies: Businesses established in free zones may be exempt from paying corporate taxes, provided they meet certain conditions. These companies must conduct business activities within the designated free zone and not outside of the UAE market to qualify for tax exemptions.
• Government-owned Companies: These are often exempt from corporate tax under specific laws.
• Foreign Companies: Foreign companies with no permanent establishment in the UAE are not subject to the UAE’s corporate tax, unless they have operations in the country.

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2. Value Added Tax (VAT)

The UAE implemented Value Added Tax (VAT) in 2018 as part of its efforts to diversify the economy and reduce dependency on oil revenues. VAT applies to most goods and services, with some exceptions, such as healthcare, education, and certain financial services.

VAT Rate

• 5% VAT: The VAT rate is currently 5%, one of the lowest rates in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). Businesses need to register for VAT if their annual taxable supplies exceed AED 375,000.

VAT Registration

Companies must register for VAT with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) if their taxable supplies exceed the threshold. Even if a company’s supplies are below this threshold, they can voluntarily register for VAT to reclaim VAT on business expenses.

VAT Filing

Businesses are required to file VAT returns quarterly or annually, depending on their revenue size. The returns must be filed through the FTA’s online portal, and any due VAT must be paid within the prescribed deadlines.

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3. Excise Tax

Excise tax is another form of indirect taxation in the UAE. It is levied on certain products that are considered harmful to health or the environment. This includes items such as tobacco, energy drinks, and carbonated drinks.

Excise Tax Rate

• 50% to 100% Tax Rate: The excise tax rates are as follows:
  • 50% for carbonated drinks
  • 100% for tobacco and energy drinks

Businesses involved in the production, importation, or distribution of excise goods must register with the FTA and ensure compliance with the applicable excise tax laws.

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4. Customs Duty

Customs duties are applicable on imported goods that enter the UAE from outside the GCC. The UAE, as part of the GCC customs union, imposes a standard customs duty on most goods, with some exceptions for certain categories of products.

Customs Duty Rate

• 5% Standard Rate: The standard customs duty rate is 5%, though the rate may vary for specific goods. Some goods, like food and medicine, may be exempt from customs duties.

Customs duties are applicable at the point of entry into the UAE, and businesses must pay duties when importing goods. The UAE has a simplified customs procedure in place, which is streamlined through the Federal Customs Authority and the customs departments in various emirates.

5. Withholding Tax

The UAE does not currently impose a withholding tax on dividends, interest, or royalties paid to foreign entities. This makes the UAE an attractive destination for foreign investors, as they are not burdened with withholding taxes on payments made to non-resident entities.

However, businesses must comply with international tax treaties that the UAE has signed with other countries to ensure they do not face additional taxes on cross-border transactions.

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6. Economic Substance Regulations

In response to international pressures, particularly from the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) and the European Union, the UAE introduced Economic Substance Regulations in 2019. These regulations require certain businesses engaged in specific activities (such as banking, insurance, and intellectual property holding) to have substantial economic activity within the UAE.

Key Requirements

• Real Operations: Businesses must prove that they are conducting substantial activities in the UAE, such as hiring employees, renting office space, and conducting day-to-day operations.
• Reporting Requirements: Entities subject to economic substance regulations must file an annual report with the relevant authorities to demonstrate compliance.

Failure to comply with these regulations could result in penalties and the denial of benefits under double tax treaties.

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7. Tax Compliance and Reporting

Businesses in the UAE are required to adhere to strict tax compliance and reporting requirements. This includes filing VAT returns, paying corporate taxes (if applicable), and maintaining proper documentation to support their tax filings.

Key Tax Obligations

• Register with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA): Businesses must register for VAT and excise taxes if their operations meet the requirements.
• File Tax Returns: Regular filing of tax returns, such as VAT returns and corporate tax filings, is mandatory.
• Maintain Records: Companies must maintain detailed records for at least five years, including invoices, contracts, and financial statements.

Also Read: Corporate Tax For Non-Resident Persons in the UAE

Conclusion

The UAE tax landscape is evolving rapidly, especially with the introduction of corporate tax and the continued application of VAT, excise duties, and customs fees. While the country remains an attractive destination for businesses due to its relatively low tax rates, the introduction of new taxes means that companies must stay informed and ensure compliance with the updated regulations.

By understanding the different tax obligations and staying up to date with legislative changes, companies can navigate the UAE’s tax system more effectively, ensuring they continue to operate smoothly in this dynamic market.

If you're planning to establish a business in the UAE, it’s essential to seek expert guidance to help you set up tax-efficient structures, comply with regulations, and optimize your operations for success in the UAE’s competitive market.

Also Read:

A Comprehensive Guide to the UAE Commercial Companies Law: What You Need to Know