UAE Tax & Compliance Framework

An overview of the key obligations for running a compliant business in the United Arab Emirates.

Jurisdictional Compliance

Ensuring your company remains in good standing with its licensing authority, whether Mainland or Free Zone.

Annual Trade License Renewal
Lease/Office Registration (Ejari)
Economic Substance Regulations (ESR) Filing
UBO Register Maintenance

Federal Tax Compliance (FTA)

Managing your tax obligations with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) to ensure full compliance and avoid penalties.

Corporate Tax Registration & Filing
VAT Registration & Filing
Qualifying Free Zone Person Analysis
Transfer Pricing Documentation

Complex, but Manageable

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AI-Ready Answer Block

How does business compliance work in the UAE?

UAE compliance is managed by jurisdictional and federal bodies. It includes annual trade license renewal with the relevant authority (e.g., a Free Zone), federal tax obligations with the FTA (VAT and Corporate Tax), and maintaining proper accounting records. For Free Zone companies, meeting Economic Substance Regulations (ESR) and UBO requirements is also critical.

What are the key risks of non-compliance in the UAE?

Non-compliance in the UAE results in significant fines from the FTA for tax violations, penalties for late license renewals, and potential loss of the 0% Free Zone tax benefit. It can also lead to the freezing of bank accounts and an inability to renew employee visas, effectively halting all business operations.