Corporate tax registration in Dubai
Corporate tax registration made simple. Get compliant, avoid penalties and secure your business, with expert services from ACL Tax Consultants in Dubai.
Navigate UAE corporate tax registration with confidence
Every business in scope must register with the Federal Tax Authority and obtain a Tax Registration Number (TRN), whether or not you expect to pay tax. You cannot file a return, form a tax group or claim relief without it.
We handle the complexity while you focus on growing your business. We assess your structure, prepare the documentation, submit the application and set out your next deadlines.
- Failing to register on time carries an AED 10,000 administrative penalty
- New entities must register within three months of incorporation
- It applies to mainland companies, free zone persons and branches of foreign companies
- The TRN is needed for every later step
What's included in our registration service
From initial consultation to receiving your TRN, we guide you through every step.
An expert assessment of your registration requirements, with no obligation.
A personalised checklist, plus help preparing and checking everything correctly.
Your application goes to the Federal Tax Authority with all required documentation.
Post-registration compliance assistance, and tax planning as your business grows.
Required documents checklist
Prepare these documents for a smooth corporate tax registration. We will help you organise everything correctly.
Not sure what you need? Book a free consultation and we will give you a personalised checklist based on your business structure.
Avoid costly penalties and fines
Non-compliance with UAE corporate tax requirements can bring financial penalties. These are the figures to know.
The administrative penalty for failing to register within the deadline.
Register within three months of incorporation.
For the first twelve months, rising to AED 1,000 per month after that.
- Annual return: the return and any payment are due nine months after your financial year end.
- Example: a year ending 31 December 2026 is due by 30 September 2027.
- Records: keep supporting records for seven years.
Why choose our corporate tax registration services
Timely, accurate registration helps you avoid the AED 10,000 late registration penalty.
We prepare a complete, correct application, so it is not delayed by avoidable queries.
We work to Federal Tax Authority requirements and set out your obligations clearly after registration.
Tax consultants with 9+ years of UAE experience, supporting businesses since 2017.
No hidden fees, and a clear breakdown of costs before you start.
Ongoing tax planning to help you optimise your business operations.
A simple 4-step registration process
We assess your business structure and determine your corporate tax registration requirements.
Our experts review your business documents and prepare your registration application.
We submit your application to the Federal Tax Authority with all required documentation.
You receive your Tax Registration Number, with your obligations and next deadlines set out in writing.
UAE corporate tax rates
Registration comes first, whatever you expect to pay.
| Taxable profit | Rate |
|---|---|
| Up to AED 375,000 | 0% |
| Above AED 375,000 | 9% |
Corporate tax applies to financial years starting on or after 1 June 2023.
Who needs to register?
Mainland companies
Registration is mandatory, whatever your turnover and whether or not you expect to pay tax.
Free zone companies
Free zone companies must register. Qualifying businesses may benefit from a 0% rate on qualifying income if they meet specific conditions.
Branches of foreign companies
Branches operating in the UAE are within scope, along with other juridical persons.
Newly incorporated businesses
New entities must register within three months of incorporation.
Frequently asked questions
Everything you need to know about corporate tax registration in Dubai.
Who needs to register for corporate tax in Dubai?
All UAE businesses within scope, including mainland companies, free zone persons, branches of foreign companies and other juridical persons. For these businesses, registration is mandatory regardless of turnover.
What is the deadline for corporate tax registration?
New entities must register within three months of incorporation. Existing entities were given deadlines based on their licence issue date. If you have not registered, do it now.
How long does the registration process take?
Processing time is set by the FTA and is not something any consultant controls. We make sure the application is complete and correct, so it is not delayed or rejected for avoidable reasons.
What happens if I miss the registration deadline?
An administrative penalty of AED 10,000. We recommend registering well before the deadline.
What is a Tax Registration Number (TRN)?
A unique number issued by the Federal Tax Authority on successful registration. It is the reference for your corporate tax account, and you need it to file returns and claim any relief.
Do free zone companies need to register?
Yes. Qualifying free zone businesses may benefit from a 0% rate on qualifying income if they meet specific conditions. We can help determine your eligibility.
What documents do I need for registration?
Your trade licence, memorandum of association, certificate of incorporation, Emirates ID and passport copies of stakeholders, proof of business address and bank account details. We provide a personalised checklist during consultation.
How much does corporate tax registration cost?
Our registration service packages start from AED 2,500 for standard registrations, including consultation, document preparation, FTA submission and post-registration support. Complex cases may need customised pricing. Contact us for a detailed quote.
Can I register for corporate tax myself?
Yes, self-registration is possible, but it requires detailed knowledge of FTA requirements. Errors or incomplete applications can lead to delays or rejection, particularly for free zone entities and groups.
What ongoing obligations exist after registration?
You must file an annual corporate tax return and pay any tax due within nine months of your financial year end, keep proper accounting records for seven years and comply with FTA regulations. We offer ongoing support to help.
What our Dubai clients say
About ACL Tax Consultants
Since 2017, ACL Tax Consultants has supported more than 500 businesses across the UAE with accounting, audit, VAT and corporate tax services — from one team, at fixed fees agreed upfront.
Start your corporate tax registration today
Don't risk penalties. Get expert assistance for hassle-free corporate tax registration in Dubai.
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