Corporate Tax Registration Guide for New Business Owners

Are You a New Business Owner? Here’s What You Must Understand About Corporate Tax Registration

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    The UAE is known for its booming economy and if you have recently set up your business in the region, it’s time for you to understand its evolving regulatory framework. The global business hub is a popular choice for entrepreneurs and it has become one of the most sought after destinations for individuals. That said, the country has shifted from its tax-free status with the obligation of corporate tax registration UAE mandated for businesses in the region.

    As it continues to evolve its regulatory framework, the classification of resident juridical persons has gained huge prominence. While operating in the UAE, it is important to understand resident juridical persons, particularly for entities established or recognized on or after March 1, 2024. In this blog, we will provide a clarity on what constitutes a resident juridical person and the associated implications for businesses operating within this framework.

    Who is a resident juridical person in UAE?

    A business entity that operates business in the UAE and also meets specific regulations under the UAE law is recognised as a resident juridical person. Here’re are the conditions that play a critical role in constituting a resident juridical person:

    Incorporation and recognition:

    The business entity must be incorporated, established, or recognized under the applicable legislation of the UAE or another country.

    Effective management and control:

    It must be effectively managed and controlled from within the UAE, regardless of where it was incorporated or established.

    Categories of Juridical Persons

    The UAE classifies resident juridical persons in distinct categories in which each category is defined by specific legal and functional characteristics. These categories ensure the entities meet the compliances and taxation standards set by local authorities. Hence, understanding these classifications are imperative for legal recognition, enabling clarity in governance, regulatory requirements and streamlining processes.

    Here are the key categories for the classification of resident juridical persons:

    Incorporated under the UAE legislation

    These are the business entities that are incorporated or recognized under UAE laws, including:

    For these business entities, the compliance timeline for filing return for corporate tax in UAE is 9 months from the end of the financial year. Simply, this means that if a free zone person has a financial year ending on December 31, 2024, the due date for corporate tax return will be September 30, 2025.

    Incorporated under the foreign legislation

    The business entities that are incorporated or recognized under the legislation of foreign country or territory but are managed and controlled in the UAE are considered resident juridical persons. Such entities follow the complete tax registration process UAE and their return filing date for corporate tax is due 3 months from the date of incorporation, establishment, or recognition. For example, if a foreign business entity is recognized on July 15, 2024, its due date for corporate tax return will be October 15, 2024.

    Implications for Businesses Established After March 1, 2024

    Business entities that are established or recognized in the UAE after March 1, 2024, must understand their obligations as resident juridical persons in UAE to ensure compliance with UAE Corporate Tax regulations. Here are some of the key considerations:
    1. Tax registration: Newly established businesses must ensure they are registered for corporate tax with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) as per the deadlines outlined above.
    2. Financial year considerations: Businesses need to be fully aware of their financial year end and plan accordingly to meet filing deadlines. To avoid mistakes, they can seek assistance from leading and trusted corporate tax consultants in Dubai. 
    3. Documentation: Every business entity essentially needs to maintain accurate records and documentation to support their corporate tax filings. This can include financial statements and proof of effective management and control in the UAE.
    4. Compliance with UAE laws: Understanding the regulations governing resident juridical person can help businesses navigate the complexities of compliance and avoid potential penalties.

    Conclusion

    Entities established on or after March 1, 2024 are obligated to understand the classification of resident juridical persons. It signifies a critical aspect of the UAE’s evolving business landscape. By attaining a clear understanding of definitions and categorization, business entities can ensure compliance and effectively manage their tax responsibilities in the country.

    Whether you are a new business owner UAE or have set up a business in Dubai, it is always advised to partner with a trusted auditing and taxation firm. At A&A Associate, we support you in meeting all obligatory compliance without a single miss.

    Connect with us today for expert guidance, tailored to your specific business needs! Contact at +971 54 793 9972 or enquiry@aaconsultancy.ae.

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