Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on UAE Corporate Tax Returns
Businesses must file their Corporate Tax returns within nine months following the end of their relevant financial year. However, for most businesses, the first filing deadline is 30 September 2025.
Yes, all businesses within the scope of UAE Corporate Tax, including free zone companies, must file a Corporate Tax return, regardless of their income or profit levels. However, some businesses may apply for Small Business Relief (SBR) if they meet the eligibility criteria.
No, a UAE business with multiple branches must file a single consolidated Corporate Tax return, including the financial results of all its branches. The same applies to a Corporate Tax Group, where the parent company files a single return on behalf of all group entities.
Yes, the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) imposes penalties for late filing, late payment, and inaccurate tax submissions. To avoid penalties, businesses must ensure timely and accurate tax return submissions.
Yes, the FTA provides an online portal for the electronic submission of Corporate Tax returns, enabling a smooth and efficient filing process.
Businesses must maintain comprehensive financial records, including income statements, balance sheets, invoices, contracts, and supporting documents for all transactions. These records are essential for accurate tax calculations and compliance.
Yes, the UAE Corporate Tax regime allows businesses to carry forward tax losses to offset future taxable income, subject to specific conditions. There is no defined time limit for carrying forward losses, but businesses must comply with regulatory requirements.
Certain types of income may be exempt from Corporate Tax, such as dividends and capital gains from qualifying shareholdings. Businesses should consult tax experts or review the Corporate Tax Law to determine eligibility for exemptions.
Transactions with related parties must be conducted at arm’s length and properly documented. The UAE Corporate Tax law includes transfer pricing regulations, requiring businesses to maintain records proving that related-party transactions align with market conditions.
While the Corporate Tax law does not mandate an audit solely for tax purposes, businesses must prepare financial statements in line with international accounting standards (IFRS).
However, the UAE corporate tax law requires businesses that have a revenue of more than AED 50 million in a tax period, or that operate in certain free zones, to have their financial statements audited by a qualified auditor.