UAE Corporate Tax (CT)
A complete guide to UAE Corporate Tax, including rates, exemptions, qualifying income, and compliance requirements for businesses operating in the UAE.
What is UAE Corporate Tax?
UAE Corporate Tax is a direct tax on the net profits of businesses. Introduced on June 1, 2023, it applies to all UAE businesses and foreign entities operating in the UAE. The corporate tax regime aligns the UAE with international tax standards while maintaining a competitive rate to attract business.
Corporate Tax Rates
Taxable income up to AED 375,000 is taxed at 0%
Taxable income exceeding AED 375,000
Qualifying Free Zone income for eligible entities
Who Must Pay Corporate Tax?
- UAE Resident Companies: All UAE-incorporated companies and entities managed and controlled in the UAE
- Free Zone Entities: Subject to CT but may qualify for 0% on qualifying income if conditions are met
- Foreign Entities: With permanent establishment in the UAE or UAE-sourced income
- Natural Persons: Individuals conducting business in the UAE with turnover exceeding AED 1 million
Exempt Entities
Government Entities
Federal and Emirate government bodies and wholly-owned subsidiaries
Extractive Businesses
Oil and gas operations subject to Emirate-level taxation
Qualifying Public Benefit Entities
Charities, religious entities, and public benefit organizations
Investment Funds
Qualifying investment funds meeting specific criteria
Small Business Relief
Businesses with revenue not exceeding AED 3 million can elect for Small Business Relief, which treats their taxable income as zero for the relevant tax period. This is available for tax periods starting before January 1, 2026.
- No Corporate Tax payable on qualifying income
- Simplified compliance and record-keeping
- Annual election required
Corporate Tax Registration & Filing
- 1 Registration: All taxable persons must register with the FTA and obtain a Tax Registration Number
- 2 Tax Period: Based on the financial year (typically 12 months)
- 3 Filing Deadline: Within 9 months from the end of the tax period
- 4 Payment: Tax due must be paid by the filing deadline
Deductible & Non-Deductible Expenses
Deductible
- Business operational expenses
- Employee salaries and benefits
- Depreciation and amortization
- Interest expenses (subject to limits)
- Marketing and advertising costs
Non-Deductible
- Bribes, fines, and penalties
- Donations (except to qualifying entities)
- Entertainment expenses (50% deductible)
- Expenses to recover exempt income
- Unrecoverable Input VAT on personal use
Related Terms
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