UAE Tax News – Corporate Tax, VAT & Policy Changes

Cheaper low-sugar drinks soon as new UAE tax kicks in

New UAE sugar tax links rates to sugar content, reshaping prices and choices for residents

3m read

A 50 per cent tax levied on all sugary drinks in the UAE kicked in on January 1, 2020. From early 2026 the flat 50% excise tax on sweetened beverages will be replaced with a volume-based model. How does it affect shoppers and companies in UAE?

Should retailers take VAT on discounts?

Retailers need to have clear understanding on where VAT kicks in on such offers

Retailers need to go over all the potential elements in play when applying VAT to discounts.

UAE corporate top-up tax gains OECD recognition

This cuts compliance burdens for multinational companies, aids global business hub status

UAE wins OECD approval for its corporate top-up tax

17.6 million untaxed tobacco, beverages seized in UAE

FTA conducts 85,500 inspections in H1 2025, collects Dh357 million in unpaid excise taxes

17.6 million untaxed tobacco, beverage packs seized in UAE, a 144% spike

What counts as qualifying income in free zones?

A closer look at the 0% corporate tax benefit and how to maintain QFZP status

Free zones in the UAE offer incentives such as full foreign ownership, simplified licensing procedures, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and access to vibrant business ecosystems.

How to shop tax-free as a tourist in UAE

UAE tourists: Get 87% VAT back and track refunds digitally – no receipts needed

Tourists shopping in the UAE can claim back most of the VAT they pay. Find out how the system works, how much you can get refunded, and how to track your purchases digitally using the Planet Shopper Portal, even if you lose your receipts.

Why UAE NRIs must file ITRs in India this year

Even with no income in India, UAE NRIs can benefit by filing tax returns this year

But how is the income of an NRI taxed in India?

Impacted UAE businesses rush to meet July tax deadline

To date, nearly 34,000 UAE companies benefit from waiver of late registration fine

UAE businesses that failed to register for corporate tax on time have 2 more days to actually file their 2024 tax returns.

Why a unified VAT registration number matters

UAE businesses seeking switch in ‘entity type’ will welcome single VAT

A unified VAT will be invaluable for businesses that seek a change to their status.

For UAE property investors, new tax rule is a big deal

Tax load on property owners in UAE reduced after latest ministerial decision

Owning property in UAE that you plan to sell? Now, the UAE tax authorities are giving investors flexibility in how they enter these properties on tax records.

Spike in UAE tourists, citizens cashing in VAT refunds

FTA approves 38,000 VAT refund requests from citizens, expands tourist refund system

An Emirati takes a selfie at Dubai Frame.

UAE to sugary drink makers - cut and pay less tax

UAE moves to incentivise beverage makers to ease up on sugar content

UAE offers sugary drink makers every incentive to cut down on the sweetness with upcoming tax break.

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