22 August, 2023
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been known as a tax-free haven for a while now. Before the introduction of corporate tax, the UAE did not have any federal tax. However, the emirates had the authority to impose taxes on businesses operating within their respective borders. With the introduction of Federal Law No. 7 of 2017 on Tax Procedures and Cabinet Decision No. 59 of 2017 there has been an implementation of Excise Tax, Value Added Tax (VAT), and Income Tax Treaties (the Tax Procedures Law), corporate tax on the profits of all companies, except for those engaged in oil and gas.
The Federal Tax Authority (FTA) is responsible for implementing and regulating the tax system in the UAE. The Decree-Law has been issued by the President of the United Arab Emirates, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
All firms must comply with this rule from their first fiscal year, beginning on or after June 1, 2023. However, since the complete guidelines have not been formulated yet, it is important to take care of the changes taking place in the law and plan accordingly. This law will be demonstrating the nation’s legal seriousness and no tolerance towards destructive tax practices. The step has been taken to help the nation progress, maintain its reputation abroad, and reach new heights.
The corporate tax rate in the UAE has been set at the lowest rate worldwide. This has been done keeping in mind the fact that a higher rate will add pressure to the businesses. Compliance has also been estimated to be higher when the tax rate is set at a relatively low value. It is therefore set to increase the revenue of the nation.
The emirates have introduced the corporate tax while keeping a number of factors in mind. These are-
It is somewhat notable that the UAE still appeals to businessmen to set up new businesses despite the establishment of corporate law. The whole idea behind the establishment of this tax system was to provide transparency and look after the accountability of businesses in order to lure more foreign investors. Now let’s have a look at the relief and benefits of the corporate tax in the UAE.
All companies in the UAE are liable for corporate tax, except for those engaged in oil and gas production and exploration activities. The tax applies to companies based in the UAE, as well as foreign companies operating in the country. Companies with an annual turnover of over AED 375,000 are required to register for VAT, which is an indirect tax, but not necessarily corporate tax.
The corporate tax rate in the UAE is 9%, which means that companies do not have to pay any corporate tax on their profits. This rate is among the lowest in the world, making the UAE an attractive destination for businesses looking to set up operations.
Example | |
---|---|
Business Net Income | AED 500,000 |
Exemption up to AED 375,000 | AED 125,000 |
Corporate Income Tax @ 9% | AED 11,250/- |
The current rate of corporate tax in the UAE is 9%. To ease the tax burden faced by businesses, there are many exemptions provided. These are-
There are various benefits associated with the corporate taxes in the UAE. The benefits are mentioned below-
1. Reduced Tax Rates in Free Zones
There are many free zones in the UAE from where several tax incentives can be leveraged by businesses. These free zones have their own tax regulations and offer reduced tax rates or complete exemptions from certain taxes, including corporate taxes.
2. Double Taxation Treaties
The double taxation treaty is a taxation agreement signed by the UAE with other nations to prevent businesses from being taxed twice. Countries like the UK, France, Germany, and India have a double taxation treaty signed with the UAE. This helps to prevent double taxation on the same revenue generated in different countries.
3. Transparency
After the introduction of the corporate law in the UAE, it is essential to keep record of the financial transactions. This is done to ensure accountability and transparency.
4. Attraction of Foreign Investment
Foreign Investments is a huge part of the country’s revenue. The tax regime is bound to make the nation a desirable location for setting up a business due to its transparency and straightforward approach.
5. Corporate tax on MNCs
There will be a tax rate set for the MNCs that qualify according to the specific criteria. This tax rate is said to be higher than 9% but has not been set yet. The corporate tax is said to make the UAE a transparent and dynamic location for businesses setup worldwide.
The actions that must be taken in order to pay UAE corporation tax are as follows: