Starting your business journey in the UAE is exciting and a big achievement. One of the most important steps you’ll take is registering for corporate tax, which shows you’re serious about growth and following the rules.
This guide walks you through how to register for corporate tax in UAE with clear, easy steps and helpful tips.
By the end, you’ll feel confident about completing your registration and meeting all deadlines. Read on to discover how straightforward this process can be!
What Is Corporate Tax in the UAE?
Corporate tax in the UAE is a fee businesses pay on their profits. As of June 1, 2023, most companies pay a 9% rate on taxable income above AED 375,000. Zero percent applies to profits up to that threshold and for qualifying UAE Free Zone businesses.
Who Must Register for Corporate Tax in UAE?
If your company’s profits go over AED 375,000 in a financial year, you must register. Both mainland and Free Zone companies can owe this tax, and many Free Zone entities qualify for zero percent if they meet certain economic substance requirements, like having local staff or office space.
Why You Should Register for Corporate Tax on EmaraTax
Registering online makes the process simple and keeps you on the right side of UAE tax law. A little effort now means fewer headaches and fines later.
- ✅ Avoid Fines and Penalties: Late registration can cost you AED 10,000 or more.
- ✅ Penalty Waiver: If you file your first corporate tax return within seven months after your first financial year end, that AED 10,000 late‑registration fee is automatically waived.
- ✅ Smooth Tax Returns: Early sign up means you’ll get your Tax Registration Number (TRN) in time for filings.
- ✅ Build Trust: Showing clients and partners that you follow rules boosts your reputation.
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Before You Start: Documents and Details You’ll Need
Getting organized ahead of time saves you valuable hours when it’s time to apply. Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand before logging into EmaraTax.
List of Required Documents
- ✅ Trade license copy
- ✅ Passport or Emirates ID of your authorized signatory
- ✅ Bank account details (account name, number, and bank)
- ✅ Memorandum of Association (if available)
Understanding the Corporate Tax Registration Threshold
- ✅ AED 375,000 profit floor, you register if you exceed this.
- ✅ Free Zone businesses can register for zero percent if they meet substance rules.
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Step 1: Create Your FTA e‑Services Account
Your first step is setting up a secure account on the Federal Tax Authority portal. With this login, you’ll access all the tools needed for corporate tax registration.
✅ Visit the FTA e‑Services Portal
- Go to the Federal Tax Authority website
- Click “Register” under the e‑Services section
- Enter your email, set a password, and confirm
✅ Fill in Your Business Details
- Legal company name (exactly as on your license)
- Trade license number and issue date
- Primary contact info (email and phone)
Step 2: Access the EmaraTax Corporate Tax Module
Once you have your account, finding the corporate tax registration page is easy. This module guides you through selecting the right tax type and starting your application.
✅ Navigating to “Register for Corporate Tax”
- Log in to e‑Services
- Select “Tax Registrations” then “Corporate Tax”
✅ Choosing Your Tax Type
- Standard Rate (9%) for most companies
- Zero Rate (0%) if you’re a qualifying Free Zone entity
Step 3: Complete the Corporate Tax Registration Form
Filling out the form is the core action of how to register for corporate tax in UAE. Follow each prompt carefully, and your application will sail through.
✅ Enter Your Financial Year Details
- Start date: usually your fiscal year’s first day (e.g. January 1)
- End date: your fiscal year’s last day (e.g. December 31)
✅ Upload Supporting Documents
- Scan each doc as PDF or JPEG
- Click “Add Attachment” and upload one by one
✅ Review and Submit Your Application
- Double check all fields for typos
- Hit “Submit” and note down your application reference number
Step 4: Get Your Tax Registration Number (TRN)
After submission, the FTA reviews your application and issues a TRN. This number is your proof of registration for corporate tax.
✅ What Is a TRN?
A TRN is a unique 15‑digit code the FTA issues after approval. You’ll use it on all tax returns and invoices.
✅ Downloading Your TRN Certificate
- Log back into e‑Services
- Go to “My Registrations,” find Corporate Tax, and click “Download Certificate”
- Save it as “TRN_Certificate.pdf” for your records
After Registration: Next Steps & Deadlines
With your TRN in hand, you’re set to handle corporate tax filings. Staying on top of deadlines and records is the key to smooth compliance.
✅ When to File Your First Corporate Tax Return
- Corporate tax returns are due within nine months after your financial year ends
- Mark your calendar so you don’t miss it
✅ Ongoing Corporate Tax Compliance
- Keep accurate books: sales, expenses, and financial statements
- Annual audit reports help back up your tax filings
Top Tips to Avoid Registration Mistakes
A few thoughtful habits can prevent costly delays and fines. Follow these tips to make registration smooth and stress free.
- ✅ Double Check Documents: Wrong license numbers can delay your TRN
- ✅ Stay Within Deadlines: Late forms mean fines of AED 2,000 per month
- ✅ Keep Backups: Store all PDFs in a secure folder online
- ✅ Ask When Unsure: Professional advice is worth the peace of mind
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Conclusion
A short refresher helps keep the main points front and center. By following these steps, you’ll complete your corporate tax registration smoothly and on time.
- ✅ What: Corporate tax is 9% on profits over AED 375,000
- ✅ Who: All mainland and qualifying Free Zone companies meeting substance rules
- ✅ How: Register on the FTA portal (EmaraTax), get your TRN, then file your return within nine months of year end and file your first return within seven months to waive late fees!
- ✅ Why: To avoid fines, stay compliant, and build trust
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Frequently Asked Questions on Corporate Tax in UAE
Who must pay the UAE corporate tax?
All companies with taxable profits over AED 375,000 must register and pay corporate tax. Free Zone firms might qualify for 0% if they meet certain conditions. Businesses below the threshold aren’t required to register but can do so voluntarily.
What is the turnover limit for corporate tax registration in the UAE?
The UAE uses a profit threshold of AED 375,000 of taxable income, not turnover. If your net profit exceeds that amount in a year, you must register. Companies with less profit aren’t required to sign up.
What is qualifying income in UAE corporate tax?
Qualifying income includes all revenue minus allowable deductions like operating costs and depreciation. Certain income streams for Free Zone entities may be excluded or zero-rated under specific rules. Always check Federal Tax Authority guidelines to see what counts.
How to calculate UAE corporate tax?
First, figure out your taxable profit: total income minus deductible expenses. Apply the 9% rate on profits above AED 375,000; profit below that is taxed at 0%. Multiply your taxable profit by the rate to find your tax due.
