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Home Services Corporate Tax Registration in the UAE: Essential Guide

Corporate Tax Registration in the UAE

As of June 1, 2023, a corporate tax (Corporate Tax) at a rate of 9% has been introduced in the United Arab Emirates. However, before applying the rates, there is a first step mandatory for all companies — registration in the FTA system. According to the law, any company registered in Mainland or Free Zone is required to register for corporate tax within 30 calendar days from the date of incorporation.

Important

Even if the business has not yet started operations or has zero income, registration is mandatory. Missing deadlines leads to fines starting from 10,000 AED. In some cases, it is possible to appeal or refund the fine if there are justified reasons.  

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Who Must Register?

  1. All companies in Mainland and Free Zones, regardless of income.
  2. Startups, even without active operations.
  3. Companies with zero income.
  4. Holding structures, SPVs, and investment companies.
  5. Companies planning to apply a 0% rate or Small Business Relief.

Penalties for Late Registration

ViolationPenalty Amount
Late Corporate Tax Registrationfrom 10,000 AED
Failure to Submit TRN Formfrom 20,000 AED
Repeated Violationsup to 50,000 AED
Data Discrepancy during FTA Auditadditional sanctions and account blocking

What MIRAD Does for Clients

  • Company registration in the FTA system and obtaining TRN.
  • Consultation on status and selection of tax period.
  • Checking eligibility for benefits (0% rate / Small Business Relief).
  • Making changes to registration (name, composition of founders, etc.).
  • Registration and deregistration during liquidation.
  • Appealing and refunding fines for late registration.
  • Translation and preparation of supporting documents and letters.

Why Timely Registration is Important

Corporate Tax registration is not only a legal obligation. It is the foundation of a business's tax reputation, without which it is impossible to obtain banking services, renew a license, or claim tax benefits. The sooner a company meets FTA requirements, the lower the risks of fines and blockages.

Want to Register Without Fines and Delays?

MIRAD supports company registration in 45 jurisdictions in the UAE — with guaranteed correct accounting and protection of your interests.

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HowTo: How to Register for Corporate Tax in the UAE

  1. Register in the FTA (Federal Tax Authority) system.
  2. Submit the registration form and obtain TRN (Tax Registration Number).
  3. Determine the tax period (usually = financial year).
  4. Check eligibility for benefits (0% rate, Small Business Relief).
  5. Confirm company data and upload supporting documents.
  6. If necessary — make adjustments or appeal fines.

FAQ on Corporate Tax Registration

❓ Is registration required if the company is not operating?
✅ Yes. Registration is mandatory even with zero income.

❓ Can fines for late registration be avoided?
✅ In some cases, an appeal can be filed and part of the fine refunded if there are justified reasons.

❓ What documents are needed for registration?
✅ Company license, founding documents, director's passport and Emirates ID, MOA/AOA, bank details (if available).

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