UAE Corporate Tax deadline: Avoid heavy fine by filing on time
Remembering the corporate tax deadline, trading up to DH10,000 in the United Arab Emirates can be spent in fine. If you are among those who have not yet registered or filed, then this is your last chance to comply on 31 July, 2025, corporate tax before the deadline. The Federal Tax Authority (FTA) has introduced a discount program to help businesses avoid punishment – but only when they work within the next 30+ days.
Who Needs to Act on the Corporate Tax Deadline?
Even if your business has failed to register for corporate tax on time, you can still avoid penalty by meeting these requirements:
File deadline: July 31, 2025
Tax period cover: 1 January to 31 December, 2024
Penalty If Missed: DH10,000
⚠ Note: This discount only applies to businesses that missed the time limit of initial registration. Make sure you file your return before the cutoff.
What About Those Who Registered on Time?
Timely registered business should still complete the specific time limit to file its tax return:
- End of Calendar Year (31 December): File till September 30, 2025
- Financial year end (March 31): File till 31 October, 2025
Why did so many businesses remember the deadline?
An important cause of missed registration is the illusion between corporate tax (CT) and value -added tax (VAT). Many small and medium enterprises (SMEs) admitted that CT registration was required only for more than DH375,000 – similar to the VAT rules. However, regardless of revenue level, corporate tax registration is mandatory for all businesses.
FTA’s Awareness Drive
The FTA has initiated various initiatives to help businesses remain obedient. These include workshops and seminars to clarify:
- How to determine taxable income
- Importance of completing corporate tax time limit
- Steps for late registrar to avoid penalty
What Should Businesses Do Now?
To avoid penalties and stay compliant, follow this checklist:
- Verify your tax period – Most businesses follow a January-December cycle, but confirm to avoid errors.
- Prepare financial records – Even inactive businesses must file returns.
- File before July 31, 2025 – Don’t let the corporate tax deadline slip by.
- Consult a tax expert – Seek professional guidance to ensure accurate and timely filing.
UAE Corporate Tax: A Step Toward Global Standards
Introduced in 2023, the UAE’s corporate tax system aligns with international norms and enhances financial transparency.
- Rate: 9% on profits exceeding Dh375,000
- Objective: Diversify government revenue, support economic growth, and ensure compliance
This is not just about paying taxes — it’s about preparing your business for long-term sustainability in a regulated environment.
Final Reminder: Don’t Miss the Corporate Tax Deadline
If your business missed on registering for corporate tax, you still have time – but not much. To avoid DH10,000 fine, record your return by 31 July, 2025. The UAE government has helped – do not let this window be closed on its business.
Need Help?
Let our experts handle it for you. Book a free consultation today and stay compliant without the stress. Avoid penalties, stay informed, and focus on growing your business. Unicorn Global Solutions is here to help! Text us on whatsApp or call us today .
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The corporate tax deadline for businesses in the UAE that missed registration is July 31, 2025, covering the tax period from January 1 to December 31, 2024. Businesses registered on time have filing deadlines based on their financial year-end.
If you miss the corporate tax deadline, you could face a penalty of Dh10,000. Timely compliance is essential to avoid additional fines and complications.
Corporate tax registration is mandatory for all businesses operating in the UAE, regardless of their revenue or activity level, including businesses with zero income.
Yes, the Federal Tax Authority has provided a waiver program for businesses that missed the initial registration deadline. To avoid penalties, you must file your corporate tax return by July 31, 2025.
To ensure compliance, follow these steps:
Verify your tax period.
Prepare and organize your financial records.
File your return on or before the deadline.
Seek expert assistance to file accurately and avoid penalties.
