Money laundering isn’t just a crime. It’s a silent enabler of terrorism, corruption, and global fraud. It hides in plain sight. Moves fast. Hurts everyone. That’s why countries are tightening their grip—and the UAE isn’t playing soft.
Corporate tax is no longer something UAE businesses can ignore. With major reforms rolled out in 2023 and more clarity coming into play for 2025, understanding how corporate tax in the UAE works and how it affects your business is now a must.
For a long time, the UAE had a certain reputation: Low red tape, zero tax in the UAE, and smooth sailing for holding companies. You could set one up, shift your assets in, and enjoy the ride. No audits, no surprises. But things are different now.
You’ve built a business in Dubai. Maybe you want to sell it now. Or maybe you’re planning for an exit in the next year or two. Either way, just listing it isn’t enough.
If you’ve been looking for the right time to buy and sell a business in the UAE, then the time has arrived. With tax relaxations, business-friendly laws, 100% foreign ownership, and easy business registration and licensing, people are looking to buy and sell business in Dubai or set up in Abu Dhabi instead of starting a new business from scratch.
Thinking about buying a business in Dubai? You’ve got two ways in. You can grab the company whole by buying its shares. Or you can cherry-pick what you want through an asset purchase. Both get you control. Both have perks. But one of them can save you a big pile of money on VAT.
What if your holding company could earn in one country, move profits to another, and skip the double tax hit? That’s precisely what hundreds of firms are doing when setting up in the UAE.
The UAE’s corporate tax regime came into effect on June 1, 2023. Since then, businesses of all sizes have had to adjust. It happens every time corporate tax changes. Freelancers and sole proprietors are no exception either.
Dubai, July 28, 2025 – The UAE just claimed a title the whole world watches – safest country on Earth. In the 2025 mid-year update of the Numbeo Safety Index, the UAE took the number one position, topping a list of 168 countries.
Planning to sell your business in Dubai? Here’s the twist: how you sell it matters just as much as finding a buyer. One route could save you a fortune in taxes. The other? It might lock you into legal and financial baggage you never asked for.
Doing business in the UAE? Then you’re already thinking global. This place isn’t just oil and skyline. It’s where capital meets clarity. Where East talks to West, and deals get done fast.
Multipolitan has released its 2025 Wealth Report, “The Taxed Generation,” marking a pivotal shift in how cities are measured for fiscal appeal. Alongside the report, the firm launched the world’s first Tax-Friendly Cities Index, comparing 164 global jurisdictions on tax policies and governance.
With the launch of One Freezone Passport, companies can now operate across multiple free zones using just one license. This is a huge development in the business world. No more duplicate applications. No more back-and-forth.
Dubai, July 22, 2025 – The UAE has hit a major milestone. The ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) confirms that more than 152,000 Emiratis are now employed in the private sector. The figure, recorded at the end of June 2025, marks a sharp rise in national workforce participation, with nearly 29,000 private companies now employing UAE nationals.
Dubai just dropped a game‑changer. Executive Council Resolution No. 11 of 2025 slashes the boundary between free zones and the mainland. Free zone companies (except those in DIFC) can now operate onshore directly — no more middlemen, no need to carve out separate mainland entities.
Corporate tax is here — and it’s serious business. The UAE’s tax regime may be new, but the rules are firm. If you’re running a company, you’re expected to play by them. Late filings? Mistakes in tax return? They’re not just paperwork issues anymore. They trigger penalties. And in some cases, big ones.
The UAE flipped the script by rolling out a 9% tax in UAE on profits above AED 375,000, while still dangling that sweet 0% for qualifying free zone outfits — unless you’re a giant multinational, then the new 15% Domestic Minimum Top-Up Tax jumps in. It’s a mix that keeps businesses guessing where they really stand. But even smaller players can’t just shrug this off.
UAE businesses used to cruise on tax-free status, but that’s changing fast. With the new tax in UAE regime under Federal Decree-Law No. 47 of 2022, even companies that never worried about numbers now face real filings, actual rates, and stiff penalties. That means UAE income tax isn’t just a rumor anymore — it’s showing up on profit statements across the Emirates.
Corporate tax is now part of doing business in the UAE. In 2025, it’s not just about profit — it’s about staying compliant. The new corporate tax regime was rolled out to keep the UAE in line with global standards. It aims to build a fair, transparent business environment that attracts investment and keeps the economy strong.
The UAE used to be a no-tax paradise. Not anymore. Since June 1, 2023, a 9% federal tax on corporate profits now applies to earnings over AED 375,000. If you’re running a business here, this isn’t just background noise — it’s real, and it’s here to stay.
Running a business in the UAE? It’s not as simple as it used to be. Things move fast. Expectations are high. And if you’re running an SME, trust isn’t optional; it’s essential.
Forget the idea that governance is only for big corporations. In 2025, it’s what helps small businesses survive, grow, and stand out.
The UAE’s audit climate is tightening. With new corporate tax laws, enhanced auditor licensing, and heightened cargo security filings, businesses face pressure to prove readiness. Compliance gaps are no longer minor. They invite steep fines, loss of credibility, and even license revocation. Internal audits must now be sharper, faster, and forward-looking.
When it comes to buying a business, it’s not just the market trends that impact the sales but the buyer’s behaviour as well. Here is what a buyer looks at when they want to buy and sell a business in the UAE.
When it comes to buying a business, it’s not just the market trends that impact the sales but the buyer’s behaviour as well. Here is what a buyer looks at when they want to buy and sell a business in the UAE.
In 2025, UAE Sovereign Wealth Funds (SWFs) are making bold moves. They’re not just investing locally, they’re buying businesses across borders. This shift marks a new phase for the UAE: one focused on global reach and long-term returns.
When it comes to buying a business, it’s not just the market trends that impact the sales but the buyer’s behaviour as well. Here is what a buyer looks at when they want to buy and sell a business in the UAE.
Big changes are happening in the UAE’s business world. The economy is growing fast. New sectors are booming. Foreign investment is pouring in. And with it, business acquisitions UAE are picking up speed.
Zero tax doesn’t mean zero rules. That’s the reality for businesses in JAFZA in 2025.JAFZA remains one of the world’s most strategic trade zones — well-positioned, business-friendly, and still offering 0% corporate tax for qualifying companies. But that doesn’t mean it’s hands-off anymore.
Big change is coming in 2025. The UAE will apply a 15% top-up tax on large multinational companies, and this isn’t just a tax update.
We all know AI is everywhere — writing emails, drafting contracts, even building full business plans. But here’s the real question: Can we trust it? And if yes, how much?
If you’re running a business in the UAE, you’ve probably heard the buzz, or maybe even panic, around corporate tax registration. The deadlines are closing in, the fines are real, and for many, it’s still confusing what exactly needs to be done and when.
E-commerce in the UAE is growing fast. More people are shopping online every day. This boom has opened the door for smart entrepreneurs.
Everyone wants a business in the UAE in 2025. Its location is perfect. Its economy is strong. And its rules make life easier for investors.
ADGM is stealing the spotlight — and for good reason. In 2025, more global companies are choosing ADGM over DIFC to set up their holding companies, as it offers greater flexibility, speed, and better streamlined regulations.
What if the next global startup success story came out of Abu Dhabi? Sounds surprising? It shouldn’t. Over the past few years, the UAE’s business scene has been picking up serious momentum, and while Dubai often gets the headlines, Abu Dhabi mainland business setup has been quietly turning into a magnet for entrepreneurs.
Thinking of buying a business in the UAE this year?Great move. 2025 is full of opportunity. But there’s one thing you can’t ignore: tax. You are in troubled waters if you are ignoring the tax aspect of your business.
Abu Dhabi is gearing up for a major leap. Other than its massive oil reserves, Its financial centre is pulling in global attention and fast. Bold reforms. Big vision. A serious push to diversify the economy. As a result, global firms are rushing in.
Worried About High Electricity Bills in the UAE? Electricity bills in the UAE are going up. Fast. At the same time, the country is chasing a bold goal of clean energy, green business, and less waste. Sounds great, right? But here’s the problem.
E-commerce in the UAE is growing fast. Digital adoption is high. Customers want speed, ease, and variety—and they’re getting it online. From fashion to electronics, the market is booming.
The UAE energy sector is a powerhouse. From oil to gas to refined fuels, it’s a key engine of the economy. But things are changing. Fast. The UAE is pushing hard to diversify. That means more focus on non-oil sectors—and big changes in tax policies.
In the UAE, tax rules are tight, and the FTA doesn’t leave much room for error. Doesn’t matter if you run a small setup or a big company, an audit can still come your way. And it’s not just about looking at numbers. It’s really about checking if you’re sticking to the rules.
UAE real estate is booming. Towers rise, deals close, and regulations grow. But behind the scenes, accounting is still playing catch-up.
The UAE stands tall as a hub for global business. It’s one of the top spots for foreign direct investment in the Middle East. From free zones to a fast-growing digital economy, the country offers real opportunities for investors.
ICV isn’t just a policy anymore, it’s becoming a gateway to the UAE’s economic future. What started as a way to grow the local economy has now become a powerful tool to reshape how businesses operate in the country. From hiring local talent to partnering with UAE-based suppliers, the In-Country Value program pushes companies to invest in the nation’s long-term growth, by keeping value where it belongs: right here in the UAE.
So, what is UAE transfer pricing? It’s basically the price that companies within the same group charge each other when they buy or sell things—like goods, services, or even use of a brand name. The idea is to keep things fair and make sure those prices match what unrelated companies would charge in similar situations.
Financial due diligence in the UAE is getting more complex. There’s more data. More rules. And higher expectations.
With Vision 2031 and the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, the country is pushing hard to become one of the world’s top economic hubs. The goal? More global trade. Smarter industries. Bigger business.
Looking to start your business? Or maybe grow the one you already have? Abu Dhabi mainland isn’t just the capital of the UAE—it’s a place full of real, solid opportunities.
Is your business ready for the 2025 VAT rules? The rules are changing. Again.
If you’re running a business in a UAE Free Zone, 2025 brings new VAT updates you need to know. These changes can affect how you work, how you file, and how much you pay.
Audit is like an exam. You prepare, you sit through it, and you wait for the result. But here’s the real deal, no matter what the score is, what you do after getting your score matters the most. It’s the same with audits.
Fixed assets are not just items on a list. They shape your profits, taxes, and audit reports. Now that the UAE corporate tax is in full swing, mistakes with assets can cost you — big time.
Thinking about investing in property in the UAE? Before you make a move, it’s crucial to understand what drives real estate prices here. The UAE market moves fast—values rise and fall based on more than just location.
Ever wondered why so many businesses and investors are suddenly talking about the Gulf when it comes to international finance? It’s not just hype. The UAE is becoming a serious player in the world of offshore banking, with multiple offshore account setups being recorded every year.
The UAE is buzzing with business ideas. From tech startups to luxury brands, investors are watching closely. Opportunities are abundant. But with opportunity comes risk.
JAFZA Just Turned 40. And That’s a Big Deal. This isn’t just a birthday. It’s a game-changing milestone. Back in 1985, JAFZA was just an idea. If you look at it now,
It’s a global trade beast.
When you think about starting a business, there is one very important decision apart from deciding what product or service to sell that you need to decide on and which can make or break your business – the location of your business.
A franchise gives you a shortcut. With a franchise, you’re not building from zero.
You step into a system that’s already tested—and already earning.
Dreaming of a tax-free business haven? Ajman Free Zone offers just that.
The location and the business-friendly policies of Ajman Free Zone UAE are the biggest attractions for the businesses and investors all around the world. Be it starting a new business or trying to expand, Ajman Free Zone offers a wide range of benefits.
Thinking of starting a business in the UAE? Fujairah Free Zone might be the hidden gem you’re looking for.
Auditing is the process of reviewing financial records to ensure accuracy and compliance. In the UAE, it helps businesses stay transparent and follow regulations.
Master financial management in the UAE with 2025 strategies for small businesses. Ensure compliance and drive growth with expert tips tailored for success.
Learn how IFRS changed UAE accounting, improving transparency, audits, and investor trust. Discover key differences and benefits for businesses.
For years, the UAE used to be an almost tax-free haven. It attracted entrepreneurs and investors from all over the globe and companies operated without the burden of tax regulations. But in 2018, the landscape changed.
Multinational companies often buy and sell things between their own branches in different countries. Transfer Pricing Benchmarking helps them set fair prices for these transactions. This makes sure they follow tax rules, avoid fines, and distribute profits properly.
Opening a business in the UAE? You’ll need a bank account. But not all accounts are the same. You have three main options: Mainland, Free Zone, and Offshore. Each comes with its own rules, benefits, and challenges.
Due diligence is the process of checking everything before signing the deal. It helps you avoid hidden debts, legal troubles, and operational failures. Skipping this step can lead to serious financial losses or legal issues.
A Chief Financial Officer is a senior-level position in any company’s leadership positions. CFOs handle cash flow and shape the company’s financial strategies.
A Chief Financial Officer is a senior-level position in any company’s leadership positions. CFOs handle cash flow and shape the company’s financial strategies.
If there is one place to protect your assets and expand your companies, it’s the Abu Dhabi Global Market.
The UAE’s Blue Visa is the latest option. It’s built for sustainability professionals and green economy experts. But how does it stack up against the Golden Visa, Green Visa, and others?
Artificial intelligence (AI) impacts the entire globe and every industry, and for good reasons if utilized smartly. AI is leaving its impact and making changes in the finance industry, but human expertise remains essential in its adoption.
In a significant policy shift, companies operating in free zones can now establish branches in mainland Dubai after securing a licence from DET. Key details include:
The UAE’s Blue Visa is the latest option. It’s built for sustainability professionals and green economy experts. But how does it stack up against the Golden Visa, Green Visa, and others?
The UAE is a launchpad for businesses. A global hotspot where entrepreneurs gather from all parts of the world because it’s modern, it’s welcoming, and it is the entire world’s favorite. If you want to start a new company UAE is definitely the place to be but before you…
10 Critical Risks Businesses Face Without Regular Audits If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.A business runs on its finances. They show the real picture: what expenses it can afford, how much money is coming in, and whether there’s enough finances to grow. That’s why companies need to do audits regularly. An audit […]
How to Choose the Right Property Valuation Firm in the UAE Imagine selling a property and finding out that you could have sold it for a greater price, and because of poor valuation, you’ve lost money. Or imagine you’re buying a property and paying way more than its value. Property valuation in the UAE is […]
The Future of Auditing: Technology, Automation, and AI Advancements Auditing is absolutely indispensable for financial transparency and accuracy. Before the advent of technology, businesses had to invest massive resources, manpower, and time in auditing , but technology is easing things up in this field too. Automation, data analytics, and AI are making audits faster and […]
Effective Strategies to Improve Your ICV Score in the UAE If you and your competitor have an ICV certificate, why did they get the tender and not you? There may be multiple other reasons, but one main reason is a higher ICV score. Yes, the higher your ICV score, the bigger the competitive advantage and […]
The In-Country Value Certificate is the key to securing more government contracts and gaining a competitive advantage in the corporate business race.
Did you know that Dubai Free Zone is the up-and-coming, dynamic business hub of 2033?
Businesses have to grapple with anti money laundering regulations all the time. They can even feel cumbersome at times but the purpose is not to complicate matters.
The rapidly changing industry has made the UAE business landscape very complex, and with the addition of digitization businesses have become more vulnerable to cyber fraud, data breaches, and financial manipulations.
Applying for an ICV certificate in Dubai and the UAE is a straightforward process involving four simple steps.
On February 27, 2024, the Ministry of Finance announced an AED10,000 penalty for late registration of UAE Corporate Tax.
The UAE has given a tax residency certificate to companies. This certificate allows these companies to enjoy tax benefits under agreements that prevent double taxation with other countries.
As a business owner in the UAE, everyone is looking for ways to grow the business and increase its profit. Hiring a professional accountant is one of the most important decisions you can make to help you achieve this goal. An experienced accountant can be an invaluable asset to your business.
AML regulations apply to several businesses in the United Arab Emirates, including banks and exchange houses.
The UAE has introduced a Corporate Tax Law, which applies to financial years beginning on or after 01 June 2023.
For VAT Registration in UAE, businesses must adhere to specific requirements set by the FTA.
