Understand key deadlines, avoid penalties, and stay compliant—Omnex is here to support your business.
The UAE Free Zones continue to be premier business hubs, offering 100% foreign ownership, duty-free benefits, and a variety of tax incentives. With the introduction of Federal Decree Law No. 47 of 2022, effective from June 1, 2023, all entities in both mainland and free zones must adhere to new corporate tax obligations.
At Omnex, we guide you through the tax landscape, helping you understand your responsibilities, meet important deadlines, and avoid unnecessary penalties.
Corporate Tax in UAE Free Zones: Key Insights
- Qualifying Free Zone Persons (QFZP) benefit from a 0% corporate tax rate on qualifying income.
- Non-qualifying income is taxed at the standard 9% corporate tax rate.
- All businesses, unless officially exempt, must register for corporate tax and file returns with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA).
Important Corporate Tax Registration Deadlines
The FTA has issued clear guidelines for registration based on license issuance and business type:
- Legal Entities (Incorporated after March 1, 2025): Must register within 90 days from the date of incorporation.
- Natural Persons: Individuals with annual turnover over AED 1 million must register by March 31 following the tax year.
- Foreign Legal Entities: Must register within 3 months from the end of the relevant tax period.
- Permanent Establishments: Must register within 3 months of incorporation.
📌 Missed deadlines result in a penalty of AED 10,000.
Corporate Tax Filing Deadlines
All UAE companies must file their corporate tax returns in line with FTA directives. Here are some sample timelines:
| Financial Year | Filing Deadline |
|---|---|
| 1 June 2023 – 31 May 2024 | 28 February 2025 |
| 1 Jan 2024 – 31 Dec 2024 | 30 September 2025 |
| 1 Apr 2024 – 31 Mar 2025 | 31 December 2025 |
⏱️ Returns must be filed within 9 months after the end of the financial year. Timely payments and document submissions are essential to remain in compliance.
Corporate Tax Compliance Steps for Free Zone Entities
To qualify for exemptions and meet FTA requirements, Free Zone businesses must:
- Evaluate income sources to determine eligibility under QFZP criteria.
- Maintain proper accounting records to support claims for tax exemption.
- Register for Corporate Tax on the FTA portal and obtain a Tax Registration Number (TRN).
- Submit returns within the 9-month deadline post financial year-end.
- Meet Economic Substance Regulations for Free Zone eligibility.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Failure to register or file corporate tax on time may result in:
- AED 10,000 penalty for late registration
- Additional fines up to AED 10,000 for delays in deregistration
- Delays in tax refunds and disruption to business operations
- Government restrictions and clearance delays
- Reputational damage due to non-compliance with UAE tax law
Why Partner with Omnex?
At Omnex, we specialize in corporate tax consulting and are registered with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA). Our experienced tax professionals provide:
✅ Seamless registration and filing
✅ Personalized tax strategies
✅ Guidance on QFZP qualification
✅ Reliable compliance support
✅ Strategic planning to minimize liabilities
Let Omnex handle your corporate tax compliance—so you can focus on what you do best: growing your business.
📞 Contact us today for a free consultation with our UAE tax experts!