FTA Warns UAE Firms to File Corporate Tax Returns on Time

FTA urges UAE companies to file corporate tax returns on time

Dubai: The Federal Tax Authority has reminded businesses across the UAE to file corporate tax returns and settle any tax due within the prescribed deadlines, warning that late submissions will attract monthly penalties.

The Authority said all taxable businesses, as well as exempt entities that are still required to register, must submit their corporate tax returns or annual declarations and complete payment within nine months of the end of their tax period or financial year.

Penalties apply for delayed filing and payment

The FTA cautioned that delays in filing returns or paying corporate tax will result in financial penalties. Businesses that miss deadlines will be fined Dh500 per month for the first 12 months of delay, with the penalty increasing to Dh1,000 per month from the 13th month onwards.

In addition to late filing and payment fines, penalties may also be imposed for submitting inaccurate information or failing to meet administrative requirements under the Tax Procedures Law and the Corporate Tax Law.

Filing through businesses or authorised representatives

Tax returns can be filed directly by the taxable business or through authorised representatives, including registered tax agents or legal representatives. The FTA said this flexibility is intended to help businesses manage compliance according to their operational needs.

All corporate tax procedures, including registration, filing and payment, are completed through the EmaraTax digital platform, which is available online at all times. The Authority said the platform allows businesses to meet compliance requirements efficiently and without unnecessary administrative burden.

Awareness campaigns continue

The FTA said it continues to run awareness programmes to help businesses understand their obligations under the corporate tax framework. These initiatives include guidance materials, direct communication with registrants and ongoing support to address compliance challenges.

Companies have been encouraged to review the Corporate Tax Law, related Cabinet and Ministerial Decisions, and official guidance issued by the Authority to ensure accurate and timely filings.

Why deadlines matter for business planning

As the UAE’s corporate tax regime matures, timely filing and accurate reporting have become core elements of financial governance. Missed deadlines can result not only in penalties but also in operational disruptions, particularly for smaller enterprises and newly established firms.

Understanding filing timelines and compliance processes is especially important for entrepreneurs evaluating long-term operations in the country, including those planning business setup in dubai

The FTA said it will continue monitoring compliance levels and take enforcement action where necessary to ensure adherence to the law.