Federal Tax Authority Public Clarification VATP020 – “VAT-Free” Special Offers Explained

The Federal Tax Authority (FTA) has issued Public Clarification VATP020 to address a growing trend in the UAE retail market: businesses advertising taxable goods and services as “VAT-free.” VATP020 PDF Click here to View While such promotions may appear attractive to customers, the clarification makes one point absolutely clear: If you are VAT-registered, you cannot […]
UAE Accelerates AI & Digital Transformation in Tax Services

The UAE continues to position itself as a global leader in smart governance and financial innovation. In a recent meeting chaired by Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) reviewed major advancements shaping the country’s evolving tax ecosystem. The message is clear: the future of taxation in the UAE […]
The 10th Arab Fiscal Forum: A Decade of Fiscal Dialogue Shaping Economic Resilience

The Ministry of Finance of the United Arab Emirates, in collaboration with the Arab Monetary Fund (AMF) and the International Monetary Fund (IMF), successfully organized the 10th Annual Arab Fiscal Forum on the preparatory day of the World Governments Summit 2026. Held under the theme“A Decade of Fiscal Dialogue: Building Macroeconomic Resilience by Strengthening Fiscal […]
Navigating Customer Risk Assessment: A Guide for UAE DNFBPs

In the United Arab Emirates’ rapidly evolving regulatory landscape, compliance is no longer just a “check-the-box” activity—it is a cornerstone of business integrity. For Designated Non-Financial Businesses and Professions (DNFBPs), such as real estate agents, gold traders, auditors, and legal consultants, understanding the “who” behind every transaction is a legal mandate. The Ministry of Economy’s […]
Bahrain Moves Closer to Introducing Corporate Income Tax: What Businesses Need to Know

Bahrain has taken a significant step toward reshaping its tax landscape by advancing a draft law that would introduce a broad-based corporate income tax. This development signals a major shift for businesses operating in Bahrain and reflects a wider regional move toward diversified government revenues and global tax alignment. According to recent updates, Bahrain’s Cabinet […]
FTA Releases New VAT Guide on the Profit Margin Scheme (VATGPM1)

The UAE Federal Tax Authority (FTA) has released a detailed Profit Margin Scheme Guide (VATGPM1), offering long-awaited clarity on how Value Added Tax (VAT) should be calculated on the resale of certain goods. This guide is a significant development for businesses involved in the trading, resale, or disposal of used assets and restricted goods. The […]
VAT Treatment for REITs in the UAE: A Practical Guide for Investors and Fund Managers

Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) play an increasingly important role in the UAE’s investment landscape. However, the VAT treatment of REIT activities is often misunderstood, particularly where different property types and services are involved. In the UAE, VAT treatment for a REIT is not determined by its legal form alone. Instead, it depends on the […]
UAE Corporate Tax Filing FY 2025: Deadlines, Compliance Risks & Free Zone vs Mainland Explained

The UAE Corporate Tax (CT) regime has officially moved beyond its introductory phase. FY 2025 marks the year where compliance maturity truly matters. Businesses that fail to align early with filing timelines, Federal Tax Authority (FTA) intimations, and accurate reporting frameworks face increased scrutiny, penalties, and operational disruption. This guide breaks down everything UAE businesses […]
UAE VAT Credits Are No Longer Evergreen, Act Before They Expire

For years, many UAE businesses treated unutilised VAT credits as a long-term balance carrying them forward indefinitely and waiting for the “right time” to claim a refund. That era has officially come to an end. From 1 January 2026, the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) has introduced a time limit on VAT credits, fundamentally changing how […]
UAE Federal Tax Authority Releases Excise Tax Guide (ETGP1): What Businesses Need to Know

The UAE Federal Tax Authority (FTA) has officially published the Excise Tax Guide (ETGP1) – Taxable Person Guide (Part 1), offering much-needed clarity on who qualifies as a taxable person under the Excise Tax regime and what registration and compliance obligations apply. This guide is a critical resource for businesses involved in the import, production, […]