Wings9 Management Consultancies
Dealing with tax obligations is a major step for businesses in Dubai. Whether you’re a startup just beginning operations or an established company growing your footprint, understanding both VAT registration & filing and corporate tax registration & filing is crucial. This ensures your business stays compliant and credible. In this blog, we walk you through both processes—so your business can meet deadlines, avoid penalties and maintain sound financial management. VAT & Corporate Tax Registration & Filing Wings9 Consultancies
Handling VAT and Corporate Tax registration and filing in Dubai can feel complicated, especially with the UAE’s changing tax laws and compliance rules. Wings9 Business Consultancies makes the process simple and stress-free with expert support designed for your business type and size. Our team takes care of every step — from preparing documents to filing returns — while ensuring full compliance with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA). This helps you avoid errors, delays, and penalties. Whether you run a small startup or a fast-growing company, we keep your tax process clear, timely, and reliable. With Wings9, you get a trusted partner committed to keeping your business compliant and confident in the Dubai market. The next sections cover both VAT and Corporate Tax registration and filing in detail. VAT & Corporate Tax Registration & Filing
VAT Registration & Filing in the UAE
Before understanding the VAT registration and filing process, let us learn a
What is VAT registration?
VAT registration means you register your business with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) so you can legally charge and collect Value Added Tax (VAT) on taxable supplies, claim input VAT on purchases, and file VAT returns.
Who needs to register for VAT?
You must register for VAT if your annual taxable supplies and imports exceed AED 375,000. You can register voluntarily if your supplies, imports or taxable expenses exceed AED 187,500.
Once registered, maintain proper accounting records, issue VAT-compliant invoices (showing your TRN, supply date, VAT amount) and file returns. Many businesses file quarterly, though monthly filing may be required depending on size.
What is corporate tax registration?
Corporate tax registration means your business registers with the FTA under the UAE Corporate Tax regime so you can obtain a Corporate Tax TRN, file corporate tax returns and meet your tax obligations.
All companies incorporated in the UAE (mainland or free zone), entities earning UAE-sourced income, and natural persons conducting business in Dubai whose turnover exceeds AED 1 million must register.
Gather your trade license, Memorandum/Articles of Association, passport and Emirate ID copies of owners/partners, bank account details, and financial statements if available. Registration is done via the Emarat Tax portal.
The FTA’s Decision No. 3 of 2024 specifies registration deadlines (effective 1 March 2024) for various entities. Delays attract penalties.
Once registered, you must file corporate tax returns for each tax period and pay due tax. Maintain full books and records for required years.
Having both VAT registration and corporate tax registration ensures you cover indirect and direct tax compliance. It positions your business as responsible, reliable and ready to engage with larger customers, suppliers or investors. Staying on top of deadlines and filings in both domains will help you avoid the compounding risk of penalties. For any business operating in the UAE, this dual compliance is essential.
VAT registration & filing and corporate tax registration & filing in the UAE are two separate but equally critical pillars of tax compliance. From getting your TRNs to maintaining accurate records, timely submissions and payments—your approach to these obligations determines your business’s trustworthiness and operational integrity. Whether you’re just starting or scaling up, proactively managing both VAT and corporate tax will save you time, cost and hassle—and free you to focus on growth. You are now poised to act and ensure your business is fully aligned with the FTA’s requirements.
What is the threshold for mandatory VAT registration in the UAE?
AED 375,000 annual taxable supplies and imports.
Can a business register voluntarily for VAT?
Yes—if supplies/expenses exceed AED 187,500.
Does every UAE company need to register for corporate tax?
Yes, unless specifically exempt.
What is the standard corporate tax rate above AED 375,000 profit?: The standard corporate tax rate above this amount is 9%.
Where do you register for VAT and corporate tax in the UAE?
Through the FTA’s Emera Tax / e-Services online portal.
What happens if a business misses the registration deadline for corporate tax?
Administrative penalties apply and registration must still be completed promptly.
Stay ahead in a rapidly world. Subscribe to Prysm Insights,our monthly look at the critical issues facing global business.