On October 20, 2020, the United Arab Emirates Government announced new tax procedures for Federal Decree-Law No17 of 2025. The proposed new procedures will replace existing laws to improve transparency, increase compliance with tax law, and create a uniform procedure across all tax types in the country. These improvements will be implemented on January 1, 2026. The amendments increase the authority of the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) to enforce compliance with tax laws. They also provide new deadlines and responsibilities that
The UAE’s Finance Ministry announced on October 19, 2023, the release of Federal Decree-Law No. 16 of 2025, which makes significant changes to the VAT Decree-Law No. 8 of 2017. The Decree-Law is officially effective as of January 1, 2026. The Decree-Law builds on previous efforts to modernize and continue the evolving nature of the UAE tax system in accordance with international tax norms. To enhance transparency and improve the administrative burden. As stated in the Ministry announcement,
The UAE’s financial condition will considerably change in 2025, and at the same time, it will put businesses under increased scrutiny regarding Corporate Tax, VAT, Anti-Money Laundering (AML), and Economic Substance Regulations (ESR). Recent audits from the industry have identified an increase in compliance gaps, often stemming from inadequate documentation and a lack of internal controls These businesses are experiencing the same repeating compliance issues: missing invoices, incorrect VAT reporting, inconsistent statutory reporting, and an inability to substantiate account balance assertions
Everything is always evolving — particularly in the UAE. Businesses are expanding rapidly as the government introduces new tax regulations and advances in technology. But rapid expansion can mask small risks: weak internal controls, unmonitored spending, and overlooked legal problems. That’s when a strategic audit is more than a yearly mandate; it’s your forward-looking warning system for business resilience. Spotting problems before things spin out of control. When things go awry in the marketplace, small missteps
The UAE Federal Tax Authority (FTA) has released Public Clarification CTP007, which explains how Tax Groups should prepare and audit their financial statements under the Corporate Tax Law. What’s a Tax Group? A Tax Group is when two or more related companies are approved by the FTA to be treated as a single taxable person. This allows them to file a single corporate tax return instead of multiple
With the introduction of Corporate Tax in the UAE, businesses now need to adjust to new rules. While the 0% tax period is coming to an end, the good news is that the UAE still boasts one of the best tax systems in the world. This is what you should know: What is Corporate Tax?: Corporate Tax is 9% of net profits earned in excess of AED 375,000. Those earning below AED 375,000 are taxed at 0%, for a breathing space for new
For small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the UAE, keeping financial records in order isn’t just good practice; it’s increasingly becoming a necessity. With growing regulatory oversight, expanding VAT compliance requirements, and the introduction of corporate tax, businesses of all sizes are expected to meet clear financial and reporting standards. Whether it’s for a year-end audit, a VAT inspection, or simply good governance, being “audit-ready” helps reduce risk, save time, and improve decision-making. What Does “Audit-Ready” Mean?
Dubai, UAE – July 2025 The UAE Federal Tax Authority (FTA) has announced expanded corporate tax compliance requirements for various business structures, as per FTA Decision No. 5 of 2025, issued on May 19, 2025, and effective from July 1, 2025. The updates are part of the ongoing implementation of Federal Decree-Law No. 47 of 2022 on the Taxation of Corporations and Businesses, aimed at strengthening the country’s tax framework
When most people think of accountants or auditors, they picture calculators, spreadsheets, and tax season stress. But behind every balance sheet is something far more human: trust, guidance, and peace of mind. At AFS Auditing, we believe that accounting isn’t just about numbers—it’s about people. 1. The Unseen Value of Good Accounting A skilled accountant doesn’t just crunch numbers. They help small businesses survive tough quarters, prevent costly mistakes, and find growth opportunities. Good financial insight often means the difference between staying afloat and closing shop. It’s
The UAE interest rate will remain unchanged at 5.40%, as announced by the Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates (CBUAE). This follows the U.S. Federal Reserve’s decision to hold its benchmark rate steady. This move reinforces the UAE’s commitment to maintaining financial stability and aligning the UAE’s interest rate with the U.S. dollar peg. It ensures consistent borrowing costs for businesses and consumers. Global and Regional Context The Federal Reserve’s pause comes amid ongoing efforts to balance inflation control
