Mandatory Corporate Income Tax Return Filing in the UAE
- 29.05.2025
- Posted by: Malavika Kolera
- Categories: Dubai, Tax
With the first full financial year under the UAE’s Corporate Income Tax regime now behind us, businesses across the UAE are facing an important compliance deadline. For most companies whose financial year ended on 31.12.2024, the mandatory Corporate Income Tax Return must be filed by 30.09.2025. This is not just a regulatory formality; it is a legal obligation that carries significant penalties for non-compliance.
According to Federal Decree-Law No. 47 of 2022, a Taxable Person is required to submit a Corporate Income Tax (CIT) Return and pay any tax due within 9 months from the end of their Tax Period. Filing a CIT Return is mandatory for all Taxable Persons in the UAE. Failure to file the CIT Return by the deadline will result in penalties.
Explanation and Example
The phrase “9 months from the end of their Tax Period” refers to the deadline for filing the CIT Return in the UAE. According to Federal Decree-Law No. 47 of 2022 on the Taxation of Corporations and Businesses, all taxable entities must submit their CIT Return and settle any due tax within 9 months following the conclusion of their financial year (Tax Period).
Tax Period: This is typically the financial year for which the company prepares its financial statements. For most companies, this is either the Gregorian calendar year ending on 31.12 or another 12 months that the company might use for financial reporting.
Filing Deadline: If a company’s financial year ends on 31.12.2024, the CIT Return must be filed by 30.09.2025.
This deadline ensures that companies have sufficient time after the end of their financial year to prepare their financial statements and accurately compute their tax liabilities. It’s crucial for compliance and avoiding potential penalties for late submissions.
Key Points
Form and Manner: The CIT Return must be filed in the prescribed form and manner as outlined by the FTA. This may include necessary schedules and attachments.
Online Submission: All filings must be done through the EmaraTax portal.
Legal Obligation: Timely and accurate filing of the CIT Return is crucial to meet legal obligations, ensure the correct tax payment, and avoid penalties.
Responsibility for Filing
The CIT Return must be submitted by the Taxable Person or another authorized individual, such as a Tax Agent or Legal Representative. In the case of partnerships treated as separate taxable entities, the responsible partner must file the return.
Record-Keeping
As per the Corporate Income Tax Law and the Tax Procedures Law, all businesses are required to maintain records that support the information provided in the Tax Return. These records must be detailed enough to allow the FTA to ascertain the taxable income readily.
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Corporate Income Tax filing requires expertise, precision, and a thorough understanding of UAE tax regulations. At TME Services, we specialize in comprehensive tax compliance solutions designed to ensure your business meets all regulatory requirements while minimizing your administrative burden.
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- Complete preparation and submission of your Corporate Income Tax Return
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