Understanding the UAE's 2025 Corporate Tax Review

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April 30, 2025

UAE’s 9% corporate tax might still feel new—it only kicked in for most companies recently. But heads-up: a government review is happening this year, and it could reshape how businesses get taxed. Whether you're operating from a free zone or on the mainland, now’s the time to check if your structure still makes sense.

Where Corporate Tax Stands in the Emirates Right Now

  • 9% tax on profits above AED 375,000 (USD 102,000)
  • 0% tax for qualifying free zone companies that meet substance and activity tests (side income must stay below AED 5M or 5%)
  • 15% DMTT for multinational groups with revenue over AED 3.2B
  • Small Business Relief: zero tax for firms earning less than AED 3M (until end of 2026)
  • 0% withholding tax on dividends, interest, and service fees (no extra filings)

What Might Shift in the UAE Tax System

The 2025 review might lead to new sector-based incentives, such as:

  • Tax credits for R&D, clean energy, and high-value employment
  • Tougher conditions for what counts as a "qualifying" free zone activity
  • Support for tax group formation and loss carryforward
  • Lower transfer pricing documentation thresholds for SMEs
  • More action on anti-abuse rules for tax structuring

Corporate Tax Moves UAE Businesses Should Make in 2025

1. Set Up a Tax Group

If your companies share 95% ownership and have the same year-end, consider forming a tax group. It simplifies filings and lets you offset profits and losses.

2. Ring-Fence Risky Business

Move high-risk or loss-making activities into SPVs or separate entities. This protects your main business and makes compliance clearer.

3. Shift IP to a Free Zone SPV

IP-holding companies in qualifying free zones can enjoy 0% tax on royalties. The main business can deduct royalty expenses at 9%.

4. Apply the Participation Exemption

If your business owns at least 5% of another company for 12 months, you might be exempt from tax on dividends and capital gains—if that entity pays tax in its home country.

5. Get Transfer Pricing in Shape

Document all related-party transactions. Prepare agreements. Benchmark fees. Follow the FTA's Master and Local file format to avoid surprises in audits.

Common Corporate Tax Mistakes in the Emirates

  • Splitting companies just to claim more AED 375K tax-free thresholds
  • Creating fake substance (staff on paper only)
  • Circular service fees with no business logic
  • Accidentally creating a UAE permanent establishment
  • Missing tax deadlines and facing penalties

Corporate Tax Timeline for UAE Businesses in 2025

Q2: If you're unregistered, do it now and cap your fine at AED 10,000. Map out your tax exposure and related-party flows.

Q3: Complete mergers or restructures. Build your transfer pricing files.

Q4: File your first CT return (for calendar-year firms, it’s due by 30 September 2025).

Q1 2026: Apply any changes from the MoF review, like new credits or free zone updates.

Why Corporate Tax in the UAE Is Still Attractive

Even with more rules, the UAE remains one of the most tax-friendly business hubs worldwide. The 0% free zone days may be fading, but there are still big benefits for companies that plan well, stay compliant, and show real operational substance.

Get UAE Corporate Tax Support from Alpha Pro Partners

At Alpha Pro Partners, we help founders and finance teams get corporate tax right—from Small Business Relief to transfer pricing, free zone setup, and beyond.

📩 Reach out for a free consultation—we’ll help you stay ahead of the 2025 changes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is corporate tax applicable to all companies in the UAE?

Most businesses are subject to 9% corporate tax on profits above AED 375,000, except those qualifying under Small Business Relief or certain free zone incentives.

Can free zone companies still pay 0% tax?

Yes, but only if they meet substance requirements and limit non-qualifying revenue to less than AED 5 million or 5%.

What is the Domestic Minimum Top-Up Tax (DMTT)?

It’s a 15% minimum tax for multinational groups with global revenue over AED 3.2 billion, ensuring they meet global tax standards.

What should I do if I missed the CT registration deadline?

Register immediately. The penalty is AED 10,000, but it doesn’t increase if you act fast.

What’s the risk of not documenting transfer pricing?

Without proper documentation, related-party transactions may be challenged, leading to penalties and tax reassessments.

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