Reliefs for small businesses in Dubai

Reliefs for small businesses in Dubai - Makebiz

In an effort to increase investment and support small businesses within the country, the Ministry of Finance in the UAE has introduced incentives. These are part of the Federal Decree-Law No. (47) of 2022 on the taxation of corporations and businesses. The incentive mechanism allows eligible firms to be treated as having zero taxable income for a certain tax period. This results in the payment of corporate tax at a zero rate for the relevant period, which is a significant advantage for small businesses. 

Businesses falling under the relief are treated as having no taxable income, removing the need for corporation tax calculations. This allows small, qualified companies to keep more of the money they earn, creating a favorable ecosystem for further investment, development and scaling of the business.

The benefit lasts for numerous tax periods as long as the company fulfills the eligibility conditions. As a result, it represents a long-term benefit for businesses, providing ongoing support even over time.

While broad in scope, the relief does not apply to certain entities, such as members of multinational enterprise groups with revenues above UAE Dh 3.15 billion and persons subject to the conditions of certain Free Zones who already enjoy a zero corporate tax rate on certain activities. The benefit is self-contained and is not combined with others.

It is worth remembering that there is an anti-abuse provision in Emirates law. The set of regulations is designed to prevent artificial mechanisms aimed solely at obtaining an unfair tax advantage. That is, the regulations prevent attempts to use the system fraudulently.

For example, if the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) determines that an activity was intentionally separated solely for the purpose of reaching the UAE AED 3 million turnover threshold and qualifying for government support, it will be considered an abusive arrangement under the GAAR.

In such cases, the FTA may:

  • Prohibit the application of benefits to affected organizations.
  • Recalculate liabilities based on the combined income of the separated companies, potentially resulting in significant tax payments.
  • Impose penalties on the company for violations of the law.

Relief for small businesses is one of the attractive reasons to launch a business in the UAE. Makebiz experts can help with the company registration process, guide you through every step and familiarize you with the important aspects of the legislation for running a successful business in Dubai. 

The UAE Ministry of Finance regulation of 2023 is intended for companies with annual income of less than AED 3 million. That is, corporate tax is not levied on their income during the period for which the exemption applies. It is applicable to tax periods beginning on June 1, 2023 and ending on December 31, 2026. Meaningful support from the government can lead to rapid growth for your business.  

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