Corporate Tax Filing in Dubai: A Complete Guide for Businesses

The introduction of Corporate Tax in the UAE has marked a new era for businesses across Dubai. As of June 1, 2023, companies operating in the UAE must now comply with a 9% corporate tax on net profits exceeding AED 375,000. With this major shift, Corporate Tax Filing in Dubai has become a crucial part of business operations.

Whether you’re a startup, a free zone company, or a multinational, understanding the corporate tax filing process and requirements is essential to avoid penalties and ensure smooth business continuity. In this blog, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know—from who must file, how to file, deadlines, documents required, and how Reliant Accounting Services can support you.

📌 What is Corporate Tax in Dubai?

Corporate Tax is a direct tax imposed on the net income or profit of corporations and other entities from their business operations. In the UAE, this tax is regulated by the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) and applies across all Emirates, including Dubai.

Key Highlights:

• Effective Date: For financial years starting on or after June 1, 2023

• Tax Rate:

  • 0% for taxable income up to AED 375,000

  • 9% for income above AED 375,000

• Applicable to: All businesses (mainland, free zone, offshore) unless exempted

✅ Who Needs to File Corporate Tax in Dubai?

You are required to file corporate tax in Dubai if you are:

• A Mainland company with taxable income over AED 375,000

• A Free zone company earning income outside the free zone or not qualifying for 0% tax

• A Branch of a foreign company

• A Freelancer or sole proprietor with a commercial license

• A Professional services provider generating significant income

Note: Certain businesses may be exempt from corporate tax, such as government entities, qualifying free zone entities, or businesses involved in natural resource extraction (regulated at the Emirate level).

📃 Corporate Tax Filing Requirements in Dubai

To successfully file corporate tax in Dubai, your business must follow a structured process and maintain proper financial documentation.

Required Documents:

• Valid Trade License

• Memorandum of Association (MOA)

• Audited financial statements

• Emirates ID & Passport copy of business owner(s)

• Bank statements

• Tax Registration Number (TRN)

• Income and expense reports

• Fixed asset schedule

• Payroll summary

🗂️ Corporate Tax Registration Process

Before you can file, your business must be registered with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) for Corporate Tax.

Steps to Register:

1. Log in to the EmaraTax Portal

2. Create an account or use your existing VAT login

3. Complete the Corporate Tax Registration form

4. Submit relevant documents

5. Receive your Corporate Tax Registration Number

Corporate Tax Filing in Dubai

Reliant Accounting Services offers complete support for registration and ensures your business is enrolled correctly, avoiding common errors that lead to rejection or delays.

🧾 How to File Corporate Tax in Dubai?

Once registered, you must file a corporate tax return annually with the FTA. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:

Filing Process:

1. Maintain Proper Accounts: Ensure your books are up to date and audited (required for some business types)

2. Determine Taxable Income: This includes revenue minus deductible expenses, depreciation, and exemptions

3. Apply Tax Deductions and Reliefs: Identify expenses that qualify as deductions under UAE tax law

4. Calculate Tax Payable: Apply the 9% tax rate to income above AED 375,000

5. Submit Tax Return: Use the EmaraTax portal to submit your return electronically

6. Pay the Tax: Pay the due amount within the deadline to avoid penalties

🗓️ Corporate Tax Filing Deadlines

Understanding the deadlines is key to avoiding fines.

• First Corporate Tax Period: Begins from your first financial year starting on or after June 1, 2023

• Filing Due Date: Within 9 months from the end of the relevant financial year

• Payment Due Date: Also within 9 months of the financial year-end

Example:

If your financial year ends on December 31, 2024, your corporate tax return is due by September 30, 2025.

❗ Penalties for Non-Compliance

Failure to file corporate tax on time can result in significant fines and potential legal issues.

Corporate Tax Filing in Dubai

Reliant Accounting helps you avoid these risks with accurate, timely, and complete tax filing services.

🧮 How Reliant Accounting Services Can Help

As your trusted accounting partner in Dubai, Reliant Accounting Services offers end-to-end corporate tax filing solutions tailored to your business size and industry.

Corporate Tax Filing in Dubai

Our Services Include:

• Corporate tax registration with FTA

• Income and expense tracking

• Profit calculation & deduction planning

• Preparation and submission of annual returns

• Tax advisory and planning

• Liaison with auditors and tax authorities

We ensure you’re not just compliant—but optimized for tax efficiency.

💡 Corporate Tax Planning Tips

Smart businesses don’t just file tax—they plan for it. Here are expert tips:

1. Maintain clear records throughout the year (not just at year-end)

2. Hire a professional accountant for monthly bookkeeping and financial health checks

3. Track all deductible expenses—rent, utilities, salaries, depreciation, etc.

4. Use accounting software for automation and real-time reporting

5. Avoid cash transactions where possible to ensure traceability

6. Plan for provisional tax payments to avoid liquidity issues

👨‍💼 Ideal for All Business Types

We serve a wide range of businesses in Dubai:

• Trading Companies

• Service Providers

• Logistics & Freight Firms

• Restaurants & Cafes

• E-commerce Stores

• Clinics & Healthcare Services

• Free Zone Establishments

• Mainland LLCs

📍 Conveniently Located Near You

Reliant Accounting Services is based at Dragon Mart 2, Office Hub – First Floor, just minutes from International City, making us easily accessible for businesses in:

• Silicon Oasis

• Business Bay

• Deira

• Al Qusais

• Mirdif

• Dubai Creek

• Downtown Dubai

📞 Contact Us Today for Corporate Tax Filing in Dubai

Avoid last-minute rush, errors, and penalties. Trust our experienced tax professionals to guide your business through every step of corporate tax filing.

📍 Location: Dragon Mart 2, Office Hub, First Floor, Dubai
📞 Phone: +971 521651170
📧 Email: info@reliantaccounting.com
🌐 Website: www.reliantaccounting.com

📝 Final Thoughts

With the UAE now enforcing Corporate Tax, ignoring your tax obligations is no longer an option. Fortunately, with the right support, Corporate Tax Filing in Dubai doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

Let Reliant Accounting Services take care of your tax filings while you focus on growing your business with peace of mind. Whether you’re registering for the first time or preparing your first return, we’re here to help every step of the way.