Corporate tax has been part of doing business in the UAE since 2023. Here is a plain-English overview for small business owners — and why good records matter most.
The basics
- A standard rate of 9% applies to taxable income above AED 375,000; income up to that amount is taxed at 0%
- It applies to companies and certain individuals conducting business in the UAE, based on financial years starting on or after 1 June 2023
- Most taxable persons must register with the FTA and file an annual return
Small Business Relief
Eligible small businesses with revenue up to AED 3 million could elect Small Business Relief and be treated as having no taxable income, for tax periods ending on or before 31 December 2026. Eligibility rules apply, so confirm your position with a tax agent.
Keep books ready for tax time
InvoicePro’s reports and ledgers keep your records organised all year.
Start free — no credit cardWhy bookkeeping matters
Your taxable income starts from your accounting profit, so accurate, complete records are the foundation of a correct return. Keep sales invoices, supplier bills, payments and journal entries organised by period and you can produce financial statements quickly. Also read how to file your VAT return — the same records serve both taxes.
Record-keeping
Keep financial records and supporting documents for at least seven years under the corporate tax rules. Digital records with a full audit trail make this straightforward.
Frequently asked questions
Do freelancers pay corporate tax?
It depends on the type of activity and income level. Get advice on your specific situation.
Is VAT the same as corporate tax?
No. VAT is charged on sales and filed quarterly; corporate tax is on annual profit.
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InvoicePro handles VAT invoices, quotations and VAT returns for you.
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