Required Documents
(As per FTA guidelines)
• Valid Trade License
• Commercial Registration Certificate
• Emirates ID / Passport copy of the authorized signatory
• Proof of authorization (Power of Attorney / Board Resolution / Memorandum Of Association)
• Contact details (email, phone, business address)
Additional supporting documents often requested:
• Bank IBAN letter
• Financial statements or turnover declaration
Who Must Register & Deadlines
All businesses in the UAE are required to register for corporate tax with the Federal Tax Authority, unless specifically exempt? This applies to:
• Limited Liability Companies (LLCs): Required to register once licensed and operating in the UAE. Registration deadlines are usually based on the month of license issuance, with most entities expected to complete registration before the end of their allocated FTA window.
• Sole Establishments and Civil Companies: Even single-owner establishments must register, provided they generate taxable income above the exempt threshold.
• Free Zone Companies: Must also register, although some may benefit from special rates or relief if they qualify as “Qualifying Free Zone Persons.”
The FTA has published staggered deadlines for different license issuance months to avoid system congestion. Missing these deadlines can result in administrative penalties.
Potential Penalties
Businesses that fail to register within the specified period can face fines starting from AED 10,000. In addition to the monetary penalty, late registration can also complicate future filings and attract stricter reviews from regulators.
Client Value & Regulatory Importance
Corporate tax registration is not just a legal requirement—it’s the foundation for meeting ongoing obligations. It gives businesses the formal recognition needed to file returns, apply for reliefs, and avoid unnecessary financial exposure. Early registration also helps management understand their reporting duties well in advance.
Case Study
We recently worked with a mid-sized trading company that was unaware of their exact deadline. Initially, the owners did not see the benefit of registering early, and were considering postponing it. After our detailed explanation of the process and the potential risks of delay, they understood the urgency. We guided them step by step, prepared the necessary documents, and submitted their registration before the FTA cut-off date. Later, the client expressed genuine appreciation, acknowledging that without our support, they might have faced penalties and unnecessary stress.
Required Documents
• Audited or management financial statements
• Trial balance and ledgers
• Bank statements for the financial year
• Contracts and expense records
Client Value & Regulatory Importance
Proper filing demonstrates transparency and keeps businesses aligned with regulations. It also improves credibility with banks, investors, and regulators.
Case Study
Most of the businesses we assist in Abu Dhabi are small and medium enterprises. Many of them struggle to keep their financial documents in order, which makes tax filing even more challenging. Over time, we have developed a clear approach to help these clients organize their records and meet their obligations without stress.
Earlier this year, the government announced a relief measure: companies that filed their corporate tax returns before July, as part of their first submission, could have the AED 10,000 late registration penalty removed. We came across several clients who had already received these fines because of delays or lack of awareness. By guiding them through the process, preparing their filings, and coordinating with the FTA, we helped them get their penalties waived.
What stood out most was not just resolving the issue, but the trust we built. Clients appreciated that we were not simply offering a service but also sharing knowledge that is often difficult for business owners to access. This combination of support and education has helped us form long-term relationships with many SMEs in the region.
Required Documents
• Current and historical financial statements
• Payroll and expense structures
• Business expansion strategies
Client Value & Regulatory Importance
Any business can run its day-to-day operations, but where we add real value is in connecting those operations with the bigger financial and tax picture. Often, companies believe they are already managing things properly. Yet, through a detailed review, we are able to uncover areas where costs can be optimized, expenses can be structured more effectively, and tax exposure can be reduced. This doesn’t just improve compliance — it gives management stronger control over finances and greater confidence in long-term planning.
Case Study
We supported a technology company by restructuring their salary and expense policies. This approach improved efficiency and reduced their future tax burden by 15%.
Required Documents
• FTA correspondence
• Relevant contracts and agreements
• Company financial records
Client Value & Regulatory Importance
When businesses face uncertainty, official clarifications from the FTA provide certainty. This prevents disputes and ensures practices are aligned with accepted interpretations.
Case Study
A logistics company needed clarity on cross-border services. We obtained an official ruling confirming the correct treatment, preventing double taxation risks.
Required Documents
• Financial data from past 3–5 years
• Expense breakdowns and trial balance
• Business forecasts and contracts
Client Value & Regulatory Importance
Corporate Tax Impact Assessments are not just about ticking a compliance box — they are about looking ahead. Many businesses only consider their tax position at the time of filing, which often leaves them with limited room to maneuver. By carrying out an impact assessment, management can see in advance how corporate tax will affect cash flow, profit margins, and future expansion plans.
This proactive approach allows businesses to restructure contracts, reclassify expenses, and plan investments more wisely before the year closes. For SMEs especially, small adjustments made early can create significant savings and reduce unnecessary exposure. It’s about moving from reactive tax filing to strategic financial planning, ensuring the company is not only compliant but also in the strongest possible position for growth.
Case Study
We completed an impact study for a hospitality group. They used our insights to renegotiate supplier contracts and reduce their projected tax by 12%.