Companies operating in the UAE must file corporate tax returns within the specified deadline set by the Federal Tax Authority to avoid penalties and fines. The new Corporate Tax Law, set to go into effect June 1st 2023 with an initial headline rate of 9% will incorporate best practices from international taxes as well. All taxable persons must register for corporate tax; exempt persons may also need to register. Companies in order to comply with this new legislation have begun filing returns well ahead of any FTA-imposed deadline. 

What Is Corporate Tax Return Filing in UAE?  

Filing corporate tax returns in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) refers to submitting an official report that details income and expenses of a company to its relevant tax authority. Filing occurs by way of filing by a Taxable Person within an allocated tax period on information regarding tax liability/payment arrangements according to Corporate Tax Law. 

If any additional information, documents, or records are requested by the tax authority, they should be provided by the taxpayer to them immediately. 

Is it Mandatory To File Corporate Tax Returns in UAE? 

Yes, filing Corporate Tax Returns in UAE is mandatory. The Federal Tax Authority (FTA) mandates companies operating within UAE jurisdiction to file tax returns and pay applicable taxes as mandated by local laws; however businesses with revenues less than AED 375,000 do not need to file returns and pay any applicable taxes on their taxable incomes according to local legislation. 

Tax laws in the UAE apply equally to both local and foreign businesses operating there, with failure to file tax returns or pay taxes incurring fines and penalties. 

Should UAE businesses with no income file CT returns?  

All taxpayers are legally obliged to file a Corporate Tax return regardless of their income level or status as an organization. 

Should Free Zone Entities File for Corporate Tax Returns?  

Corporate Tax in UAE applies equally to persons within Free Zones as it would to other businesses; as a result, all Free Zone entities will need to submit a Corporate Tax return whether or not they qualify as qualifying Free Zone persons. 

In UAE, businesses will only need to file corporate tax returns once every tax period. Due nine months post-period close out date. Furthermore, no advance or preliminary filings of corporate taxes will be necessary. 

What Is the Deadline for Filing Corporate Tax Returns in UAE?  

Businesses operating in the UAE will have up to nine months from the end of their relevant tax period (June 1, 2023 for instance) until submitting and paying their Corporate Tax to the Federal Tax Authority (FTA). So for instance a company that began its first tax period beginning January 1, 2024 could file their return as late as September 30, 2025. 

UAE authorities have taken this initiative in line with their commitment to ensure smooth implementation of corporate tax policy. Filing tax returns offers benefits such as cost control and time efficiency; one tax return per group; and being able to combine group taxes paid when certain companies make a taxable profit while others experience tax losses. 

How Can I File Corporate Tax Returns in UAE?  

You can file Corporate Tax Returns electronically using EmaraTax’s portal. Currently, the FTA allows for pre-registration of corporate tax for selected entities – if this includes you then register at EmaraTax! Haven’t Created an Account Yet on EmaraTax Yet? Here’s How You Can Register And Log Into EmaraTax… (Used with UAE Central Bank PASS Account Management system for user experience reorganizing user experience ). 

Filing Corporate Tax Returns in UAE The procedure for filing corporate tax returns in UAE comprises several steps. 

• Tax Registration: Submit all necessary documents and information to the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) in order to register as a taxpayer with them. Record Keeping: Keep records of your financial transactions and tax-related documents according to UAE law. 
• Preparation of Tax Return: Calculate taxable income and prepare a tax return with records you’ve kept, taking into account deductions and exemptions as per UAE tax laws. 
• Filing of Tax Return: On or before its due date, submit the FTA tax return via e-Services online platform for filing and paying their tax liability as detailed on their return filed with them. In cases where filing an amended return has changed your liability amount please follow the payment process above as stated above for tax liability payments to be completed on time. 
• Tax Audit: When audited by the FTA, additional documents or information may be requested in order to ensure accuracy of your tax return filed. Our experts can help calculate and determine your corporate tax liabilities before providing assistance throughout the UAE Corporate tax return filing process. 

Best Corporate Tax Return Filing Services in Dubai, UAE 

At corporatetaxation.ae, our expert Tax Consultants in UAE specialize in helping our clients to stay compliant with Tax Authority laws and regulations, by offering top tier Corporate Tax services in the country for Corporate Tax returns filing. 

Our team can also assist in document preparation, calculating tax liability and complying with corporate taxes pertaining to registration, filing returns, refunds or refund applications. 

Need Help filing Corporate Returns? Call the best corporate tax consultant in Dubai with any of your queries. 

FAQs 

What is the deadline for filing corporate tax returns in the UAE in 2024?  

Usually on or before March 31st. 

What are some key documents and information needed for successful filing of corporate tax returns in the UAE?  

A successful corporate tax filing in the UAE involves gathering an assortment of financial statements, receipts and invoices, payroll records, profit and loss statements as well as any applicable forms or declarations from various government bodies. 

Are there any deductions or tax credits that can help reduce corporate tax liability in the UAE? 

Yes, various deductions and tax credits exist within the UAE that can help lower corporate tax liabilities such as investment incentives, research and development incentives and tax breaks for hiring Emirati nationals. 

What are some common mistakes to be aware of when filing a corporate tax return in the UAE? 

Among the many mistakes to avoid when filing a corporate tax return in the UAE are keeping accurate financial records, missing deadlines for filing and payment of taxes, and failing to take advantage of available tax incentives or deductions.