FTA urges UAE businesses to file corporate tax returns on time

Authority warns of fines for late tax returns; deadline is 9 months after tax period

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Justin Varghese, Your Money Editor
1 MIN READ
FTA urges UAE businesses to file corporate tax returns on time
Vijith Pulikkal/Gulf News | Shutterstck

Dubai: The Federal Tax Authority (FTA) has reminded companies in the UAE of the need to submit corporate tax returns and pay any tax due within the set deadlines to avoid penalties.

The authority said all taxable businesses, and exempt entities that are still required to register, must file their tax returns — or annual declarations in the case of exempt registrants — and settle corporate tax within nine months of the end of their tax period or financial year.

Penalties for late filing

The FTA warned that delays in filing or payment will attract fines.

  • Dh500 per month for the first 12 months of delay.

  • Dh1,000 per month from the 13th month onwards.

The authority added that penalties can also apply if inaccurate information is provided or if administrative requirements are not met, under the Tax Procedures Law and Corporate Tax Law.

Filing options

Tax returns can be submitted directly by the taxable business, or through authorised representatives, such as registered tax agents or legal representatives.

The FTA highlighted that the EmaraTax platform, its digital service hub, allows businesses to register, file tax returns, and settle tax liabilities online at any time.

Awareness, support

The FTA said it continues to run awareness campaigns to help businesses understand the corporate tax framework and ensure smooth compliance. It also maintains direct communication with companies to address challenges and gather feedback.

Businesses are urged to review the Corporate Tax Law, related Cabinet and Ministerial Decisions, and the detailed guides and clarifications available on the FTA website.

Justin Varghese
Justin VargheseYour Money Editor
Justin is a personal finance author and seasoned business journalist with over a decade of experience. He makes it his mission to break down complex financial topics and make them clear, relatable, and relevant—helping everyday readers navigate today’s economy with confidence. Before returning to his Middle Eastern roots, where he was born and raised, Justin worked as a Business Correspondent at Reuters, reporting on equities and economic trends across both the Middle East and Asia-Pacific regions.
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