UAE Corporate Tax &
VAT Registration

UAE corporate tax & VAT compliance, explained

Who must register for UAE corporate tax?

Every taxable person — mainland companies, free zone entities and qualifying branches — must register with the Federal Tax Authority and obtain a Corporate Tax Registration Number, even when the expected tax due is zero. We handle registration and confirm your first return period.

What is the UAE corporate tax rate and filing deadline?

Corporate tax is 0% on taxable income up to AED 375,000 and 9% above that. The return is filed once per financial year, within nine months of the end of that year. We track the deadline and prepare the filing from your accounts.

When is VAT registration mandatory in the UAE?

Registration is mandatory once taxable turnover passes AED 375,000 in the previous 12 months or is expected to in the next 30 days, and voluntary from AED 187,500. We assess your turnover, register you and set up compliant tax invoicing.

How often are VAT returns filed?

Most businesses file quarterly, some monthly, within 28 days of the end of each tax period. We reconcile input and output VAT, file the return and keep the supporting records for the required retention period.

Do free zone companies still need accounting records?

Yes. Audited or reconciled financial statements and supporting records must be maintained for corporate tax purposes, including for free zone entities claiming qualifying income treatment. Our bookkeeping and accounting services keep those records ready year round.

Can you take over from an existing accountant mid-year?

Yes. We review prior filings and ledgers, correct gaps, then continue registration, bookkeeping and filing under a written scope with a fixed fee agreed before work starts.