UAE Tax Compliance Made Simple
VAT registration, quarterly filing, and corporate tax planning — handled by Arab First's certified UAE tax advisors. Never miss a deadline, never overpay.
Value Added Tax (VAT)
- → Introduced January 2018
- → 5% standard rate (one of world's lowest)
- → Mandatory registration: AED 375,000+ turnover
- → Quarterly filing with FTA
- → Applies to most goods & services
Corporate Tax (CT)
- → Introduced June 2023
- → 9% on profits above AED 375,000
- → 0% for qualifying freezone entities
- → Annual return filing
- → Transfer pricing rules apply
UAE Tax Filing Calendar
When Do Tax Obligations Apply?
VAT
Mandatory registration if annual taxable turnover exceeds AED 375,000. Voluntary from AED 187,500.
Corporate Tax
9% corporate tax on profits above AED 375,000. Profits below this threshold are taxed at 0%.
Free Zone CT
Qualifying free zone persons can benefit from 0% CT on qualifying income if substance requirements are met.
From Registration to Annual Review
Tax Health Check
We assess your current compliance status, potential liabilities, and planning opportunities
Registration
VAT and/or CT registration with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) if not already registered
Ongoing Advisory
Quarterly VAT returns, corporate tax planning, and FTA query management
Annual Review
Year-end tax review to optimise your position and prepare for the following year
Tax Advisory FAQs
What is the UAE VAT rate?
The standard UAE VAT rate is 5% — one of the lowest in the world. Certain goods and services are zero-rated (0%) or exempt. All businesses with taxable annual supplies exceeding AED 375,000 must register for VAT.
When was UAE corporate tax introduced?
UAE corporate tax (9%) was introduced in June 2023. It applies to financial years starting on or after 1 June 2023. The first CT returns for most businesses were due in 2024.
Do freezone companies pay corporate tax?
Qualifying Free Zone Persons (QFZPs) can benefit from a 0% corporate tax rate on qualifying income. This requires meeting substance requirements, not having a permanent establishment on the mainland, and not earning qualifying mainland income. Arab First helps you structure for this benefit.
What happens if I file a VAT return late?
Late VAT filing penalties start at AED 1,000 for the first offence and AED 2,000 for subsequent offences within 24 months. Late payment penalties of 2% per month apply on the outstanding amount. Arab First ensures you never miss a deadline.
Can Arab First represent me in an FTA audit?
Yes. Our tax team handles all FTA correspondence, audit enquiries, and voluntary disclosures on your behalf. We prepare the required documentation and liaise directly with the FTA.
Do I need to file a corporate tax return if my profit is zero?
Yes. All UAE businesses registered for corporate tax must file an annual CT return, even if no tax is owed. Failure to file is a penalty offence. Arab First handles CT return preparation and filing.
Get UAE Tax Advisory Today
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