Expert Tax Consultancy Services in Dubai, UAE
As one of the leading tax consultants in Dubai, we provide professional tax advisory services tailored to businesses operating in the UAE. Our registered tax agents specialize in VAT consultancy services, corporate tax services, and excise tax services, ensuring compliance with UAE tax laws and regulations overseen by the UAE Ministry of Finance and Federal Tax Authority (FTA).
The introduction of VAT in 2018 and corporate tax in 2023 significantly expanded tax obligations for businesses across the UAE. As FTA regulations grow more complex, expert tax consultancy becomes essential. Engaging a reliable tax consultant in Dubai ensures accurate compliance, minimizes risk, and enables businesses to benefit from available reliefs and strategic structuring—especially in sectors like real estate, logistics, and free zone operations.
The introduction of VAT in 2018 and corporate tax in 2023 significantly expanded tax obligations for businesses across the UAE. As FTA regulations grow more complex, expert tax consultancy becomes essential. Engaging a reliable tax consultant in Dubai ensures accurate compliance, minimizes risk, and enables businesses to benefit from available reliefs and strategic structuring—especially in sectors like real estate, logistics, and free zone operations.
Comprehensive Tax Consulting in the UAE
MAUREEN ZEHRING
Scope of Professional Tax Consulting Services in UAE
Our team of tax experts delivers comprehensive tax services specifically designed for the UAE's regulatory framework. These services extend beyond standard filings to include strategic planning, structured advisory, and ongoing compliance support tailored to each client's operational needs.
- Strategic Tax Planning: Structuring operations to minimize tax liabilities within legal bounds, especially in light of economic substance regulations (ESR) and anti-abuse provisions.
- Tax Preparation and Filing: Ensuring accurate corporate tax and VAT submissions in line with FTA guidance, including adherence to deadlines and supporting documentation.
- VAT Registration and Compliance: Managing TRN applications, group registrations, and compliance monitoring, especially for businesses crossing the AED 375,000 threshold.
- Corporate Tax Consultancy: Our corporate tax consultants in Dubai provide advice on deductible expenses, exempt income, and permanent establishment risks for both mainland and free zone entities under the UAE Corporate Tax Law (Federal Decree-Law No. 47 of 2022).
- Excise Tax Advisory: Supporting compliance for businesses dealing with carbonated drinks, tobacco, and energy products as per the Excise Tax Law.
- Tax Risk Assessment: Identifying exposures through internal audits, benchmarking, and scenario testing to minimize unexpected liabilities or FTA disputes
- FTA Liaison: Handling queries, clarifications, tax audits, and voluntary disclosures to maintain transparency and mitigate enforcement risk.
Tax Advisory Services Offered:
- Tailored Tax Planning: Whether operating as an onshore LLC or a free zone establishment, our tax professionals align advisory with sector-specific benefits and obligations.
- Strategic VAT Scheme Selection: Our best tax consultants help determine the most beneficial VAT registration path—mandatory or voluntary—based on turnover projections and input/output ratios.
- Expense Optimization: Through legitimate deductions and efficient tax structuring, our tax accounting agents contribute directly to net profit enhancement.
- Regulatory Updates: Regular briefings on FTA circulars, Cabinet decisions, and Ministerial clarifications ensure management decisions remain compliant with direct and indirect tax regulations.
- Documentation Standards: Our tax advisory services align accounting records with tax audit standards, reducing the risk of penalties due to poor documentation.
- Performance Benchmarking: Access to market intelligence allows businesses to measure tax efficiency against peer averages and adjust strategies accordingly.
Value Delivered by Expert Tax Consultants in Dubai
Effective tax consulting is not limited to regulatory adherence—it enhances financial clarity and contributes to long-term strategic growth. Businesses that invest in qualified tax advisory services experience measurable operational benefits, including:
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Major Tax Categories in the UAE
Understanding the structure and impact of key tax types is essential for businesses in Dubai and the UAE. Each tax category carries distinct compliance obligations under Federal Decree-Law and FTA executive regulations. Our expertise in tax management ensures proper classification of supplies, timely filing, and avoidance of penalties.
Excise tax is a form of indirect taxation applied to specific goods deemed harmful to human health or the environment. Governed by Federal Decree-Law No. 7 of 2017, this tax is levied at the point of import, manufacture, or stockpiling.
Common taxable categories include:
Excise tax rates typically range between 50% and 100% of the retail selling price or the designated base price—whichever is higher. Compliance requires registration, monthly filing, and submission of audited inventory records.
Common taxable categories include:
- Carbonated beverages (excluding unflavored sparkling water)
- Energy drinks containing stimulants or additives
- All tobacco products, including alternatives such as heated tobacco
- Electronic smoking devices and nicotine liquids
- Beverages with added sugar or sweeteners
Excise tax rates typically range between 50% and 100% of the retail selling price or the designated base price—whichever is higher. Compliance requires registration, monthly filing, and submission of audited inventory records.
Excise Tax Services
Introduced in 2018 under Federal Decree-Law No. 8, VAT is a 5% consumption tax applied across goods and services in the UAE. As of 2024, over 350,000 businesses are VAT-registered, according to FTA data.
The VAT framework is structured into:
Exempt Supplies
Taxable Supplies
Zero-Rated Supplies
VAT-registered entities must maintain records for at least five years, conduct proper input/output tax reconciliation, and comply with periodic filing obligations.
The VAT framework is structured into:
Exempt Supplies
- Residential properties (first sale excluded)
- Bare land
- Certain financial services (e.g., life insurance, interest-based lending)
Taxable Supplies
- Commercial properties and real estate transactions
- Hospitality services (hotels, restaurants)
- Consumer retail and vehicle rentals
- Professional services (legal, accounting, consulting)
Zero-Rated Supplies
- Export of goods and services outside the GCC
- International transportation and related services
- Healthcare and education (subject to conditions)
- Investment-grade precious metals
- Crude oil and natural gas supplies
VAT-registered entities must maintain records for at least five years, conduct proper input/output tax reconciliation, and comply with periodic filing obligations.
Value Added Tax (VAT)
Our tax consultancy services for hotels, resorts, and short-term accommodation providers in Dubai address sector-specific taxes regulated by Dubai Municipality and the Department of Economy and Tourism.
Typical charges include:
These fees must be transparently disclosed to customers and accurately reported in financial statements. Inconsistent application may lead to enforcement actions or reputational issues with regulatory bodies.
Typical charges include:
- Municipality fee (7%–10%) based on room rate
- Tourism Dirham (fixed per night based on hotel rating; e.g., AED 7–20)
- Service charges (up to 10%)
- City tax and additional levies, depending on emirate-specific regulations
These fees must be transparently disclosed to customers and accurately reported in financial statements. Inconsistent application may lead to enforcement actions or reputational issues with regulatory bodies.
Tourist and Hospitality Sector Taxes
Importance of Professional Tax Consultancy
Tax compliance in the UAE extends far beyond basic calculations or form submissions. With the recent introduction of corporate tax and the continuing evolution of VAT and excise regimes, professional oversight is critical for accuracy, efficiency, and protection from penalties.
Our leading tax consultants in Dubai offer support in:
Accurate and Timely Registration and Filing
Еnsuring correct entity classification (mainland, free zone, or offshore) and registering with the FTA within statutory timelines.
Document and Records Management
Organizing transactional evidence, tax invoices, credit notes, and reconciliations in line with Article 78 of the UAE VAT Executive Regulations.
Estimation and Budgeting of Tax Liabilities
Forecasting liabilities based on historical data and future cash flow projections for better liquidity planning.
Proper Computation to Avoid Overpayment
Identifying eligible deductions, exemptions, and reliefs that reduce effective tax burdens without risking non-compliance.
Proactive Compliance to Prevent Audits or Disputes
Implementing control systems, periodic reviews, and voluntary disclosures where applicable to avoid FTA scrutiny or penalties under Cabinet Decision No. 40 of 2017.
By engaging our expert tax consultancy services, which are delivered by professionals experienced in FTA protocols and audit procedures, companies gain financial clarity and safeguard long-term operational continuity.
Accurate and Timely Registration and Filing
Еnsuring correct entity classification (mainland, free zone, or offshore) and registering with the FTA within statutory timelines.
Document and Records Management
Organizing transactional evidence, tax invoices, credit notes, and reconciliations in line with Article 78 of the UAE VAT Executive Regulations.
Estimation and Budgeting of Tax Liabilities
Forecasting liabilities based on historical data and future cash flow projections for better liquidity planning.
Proper Computation to Avoid Overpayment
Identifying eligible deductions, exemptions, and reliefs that reduce effective tax burdens without risking non-compliance.
Proactive Compliance to Prevent Audits or Disputes
Implementing control systems, periodic reviews, and voluntary disclosures where applicable to avoid FTA scrutiny or penalties under Cabinet Decision No. 40 of 2017.
By engaging our expert tax consultancy services, which are delivered by professionals experienced in FTA protocols and audit procedures, companies gain financial clarity and safeguard long-term operational continuity.
Benefits of Engaging a Tax Advisor
Appointing a qualified tax consultant in Dubai is more than a compliance measure—it is a strategic asset that safeguards financial performance and operational continuity. In the UAE, where tax legislation is relatively new but rapidly expanding in scope, businesses must respond to complex regulatory requirements with precision and foresight.
Key advantages of our professional tax consulting services in UAE include:
Time Savings and Procedural Efficiency
Managing VAT, corporate tax, and excise filings often requires integration with accounting systems and document trails. Our tax professionals streamline data collection, classification, and submission.
Real-time Updates on Tax Reforms and Rulings
FTA guidance, Cabinet decisions, and Ministerial clarifications are issued frequently. Our consultants interpret these updates and translate them into actionable steps for clients dealing with tax issues.
Support with License Renewals and Compliance Reporting
Many free zones now mandate proof of tax compliance for trade license renewals. Our registered tax agents prepare required documentation such as tax clearance certificates or ESR notifications.
Structured Audit Preparation
If selected for an FTA audit in UAE, businesses must demonstrate consistency, transparency, and documentation. Our consultants coordinate audit-readiness reviews, minimizing exposure to penalties.
Centralized Records Management
Our tax advisory services establish systems for archiving invoices, returns, reconciliations, and supporting schedules in accordance with Article 2 of the Tax Procedures Law.
Tax Optimization Within Legal Frameworks
Through analysis of operational models and supply chains, our tax experts uncover legitimate methods to reduce exposure—such as group VAT registration, structuring intercompany transactions, or leveraging zero-rated exports in alignment with international tax standards.
Time Savings and Procedural Efficiency
Managing VAT, corporate tax, and excise filings often requires integration with accounting systems and document trails. Our tax professionals streamline data collection, classification, and submission.
Real-time Updates on Tax Reforms and Rulings
FTA guidance, Cabinet decisions, and Ministerial clarifications are issued frequently. Our consultants interpret these updates and translate them into actionable steps for clients dealing with tax issues.
Support with License Renewals and Compliance Reporting
Many free zones now mandate proof of tax compliance for trade license renewals. Our registered tax agents prepare required documentation such as tax clearance certificates or ESR notifications.
Structured Audit Preparation
If selected for an FTA audit in UAE, businesses must demonstrate consistency, transparency, and documentation. Our consultants coordinate audit-readiness reviews, minimizing exposure to penalties.
Centralized Records Management
Our tax advisory services establish systems for archiving invoices, returns, reconciliations, and supporting schedules in accordance with Article 2 of the Tax Procedures Law.
Tax Optimization Within Legal Frameworks
Through analysis of operational models and supply chains, our tax experts uncover legitimate methods to reduce exposure—such as group VAT registration, structuring intercompany transactions, or leveraging zero-rated exports in alignment with international tax standards.
Aligning year-end financial statements with VAT and corporate tax implications, ensuring correct treatment of deferred tax assets and liabilities.
Preparation of Tax-Compliant Balance Sheets
Preparing and submitting VAT returns, corporate tax returns, and voluntary disclosures with detailed backup documentation, in line with FTA portal requirements.
Filing Support and FTA Submissions
Conducting monthly or quarterly compliance reviews to ensure adaptation to amendments such as Ministerial Decision No. 114 of 2023 on deductible expenses or changes to free zone exemptions.
Monitoring Regulatory Changes
Creating internal audit files with reconciliations, tax computation sheets, input/output VAT summaries, and justifications for exemptions or zero-rating.
Development of Tax Validation Documentation
Reviewing entity structures, intercompany arrangements, and cross-border transactions to identify and mitigate exposure to tax disputes, fines, or double taxation risks.
Each service is designed to reduce administrative burden while reinforcing audit resilience and long-term financial clarity. Businesses operating in the UAE benefit from our dual expertise in tax law interpretation and accounting execution, especially in high-compliance sectors such as real estate, e-commerce, and logistics.
Each service is designed to reduce administrative burden while reinforcing audit resilience and long-term financial clarity. Businesses operating in the UAE benefit from our dual expertise in tax law interpretation and accounting execution, especially in high-compliance sectors such as real estate, e-commerce, and logistics.
Tax Risk Assessment
Accounting and Tax Services Offered
Tax accounting in the UAE involves translating commercial transactions into records that meet legal and financial reporting standards. Our specialized services are structured to reflect statutory obligations under UAE tax laws, International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), and sector-specific licensing regulations.
Typical services include:
Typical services include:
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Available Packages and Related Services
Tailored service packages accommodate the operational scale, industry, and regulatory profile of each business. Whether a startup in a free zone or a multinational with mainland subsidiaries, our bundled tax and accounting solutions provide continuity, control, and measurable compliance outcomes.
Customized packages often combine routine compliance with strategic advisory. These may be structured on monthly, quarterly, or annual terms and typically include:
Packages help reduce overhead, improve reporting timelines, and centralize compliance responsibilities under a single provider.
- Bookkeeping integrated with tax categorization
- VAT return preparation and submission
- Corporate tax calculations and liability forecasting
- Monthly or quarterly management reporting
- Year-end financial statements aligned with IFRS
- Tax advice on deductibility, zero-rating, and FTA responses
Packages help reduce overhead, improve reporting timelines, and centralize compliance responsibilities under a single provider.
Tax and Accounting Service Packages
We offer approved audit and tax consultancy services aligned with the specific requirements of UAE jurisdictions, including free zones where annual audited financial statements are mandatory for licensed entities.
Key coverage includes:
Annual audit packages often include preparation of working papers, liaison with zone authorities, and delivery of auditor-signed financial statements in required formats.
Key coverage includes:
- DAFZA (Dubai Airport Freezone Authority): Mandatory audits for all FZCOs and FZE entities.
- JAFZA (Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority): Audited reports required for license renewal.
- DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre): Audit reports must be filed through the DMCC portal.
- DHCC (Dubai Healthcare City): Sector-specific financial disclosures required.
- RAK FTZ (Ras Al Khaimah Free Trade Zone): Tailored formats and auditor pre-approvals applicable.
Annual audit packages often include preparation of working papers, liaison with zone authorities, and delivery of auditor-signed financial statements in required formats.
Annual Audit Packages by Jurisdiction
Each emirate may present unique requirements based on local authority expectations, free zone rules, and sector concentration. Our services to businesses across the UAE include:
Dubai: High demand for VAT filing, corporate tax structuring, and hotel/tourism fee management.
Abu Dhabi: Government-linked entities often require dual reporting under IFRS and IPSAS.
Sharjah: Strong presence of SME manufacturers needing excise and customs support.
Ras Al Khaimah: Free zone audit filing and transfer pricing documentation in focus.
Fujairah and Ajman: Growing logistics and shipping sectors require indirect tax advisory.
Umm Al Quwain: Ideal for startups seeking minimal overhead with basic VAT support.
Our localized services ensure that jurisdiction-specific requirements—such as audit deadlines or regulatory disclosures—are fully met.
Dubai: High demand for VAT filing, corporate tax structuring, and hotel/tourism fee management.
Abu Dhabi: Government-linked entities often require dual reporting under IFRS and IPSAS.
Sharjah: Strong presence of SME manufacturers needing excise and customs support.
Ras Al Khaimah: Free zone audit filing and transfer pricing documentation in focus.
Fujairah and Ajman: Growing logistics and shipping sectors require indirect tax advisory.
Umm Al Quwain: Ideal for startups seeking minimal overhead with basic VAT support.
Our localized services ensure that jurisdiction-specific requirements—such as audit deadlines or regulatory disclosures—are fully met.
Location-Specific Tax Services
Additional Business Support Services
Beyond taxation, our firm provides operational support to help clients build resilient financial infrastructure, reduce overhead, and improve decision-making for business in Dubai.
Key services include:
These offerings support sustainable business growth while maintaining full compliance with UAE commercial laws and tax regulations.
- Outsourced accounting and payroll processing to reduce internal administrative load
- Part-time CFO and internal audit support for strategy formulation and risk control
- Business setup and restructuring consultancy, particularly during corporate tax alignment or ownership transitions
- IFRS advisory and financial due diligence for mergers, acquisitions, and investor presentations
These offerings support sustainable business growth while maintaining full compliance with UAE commercial laws and tax regulations.
Common Questions Regarding Tax Consultancy in the UAE
A VAT health check is an internal diagnostic review that assesses whether a business's VAT treatment, documentation, and filings are in line with FTA regulations. It typically includes examination of sales and purchase records, reconciliation processes, and identification of potential non-compliance risks.
As one of the best tax consultants in the region, our firms in Dubai and across the UAE provide comprehensive tax services with a focus on accuracy, compliance, and strategic optimization for businesses of all sizes.
As one of the best tax consultants in the region, our firms in Dubai and across the UAE provide comprehensive tax services with a focus on accuracy, compliance, and strategic optimization for businesses of all sizes.
What is a VAT health check?
Fees vary based on business complexity, number of transactions, and scope of advisory. Monthly compliance packages for SMEs may begin around AED 2,000, while annual corporate tax consulting for larger entities could exceed AED 15,000 depending on reporting needs and sector.
How much do tax consultation services typically cost?
Taxable supplies include all goods and services sold in the UAE that are either standard-rated (5%) or zero-rated. Once taxable turnover exceeds AED 375,000 in a 12-month period, VAT registration becomes mandatory. Voluntary registration is allowed from AED 187,500.
What are taxable supplies for VAT registration?
A tax audit is an official review conducted by the FTA to examine whether a business has correctly declared tax liabilities, maintained compliant records, and paid dues. This can include field visits, document reviews, and inquiries into historical filings.
What is a tax audit in the UAE?
Our consultants offer clarity on VAT, corporate tax, and excise regimes, help prevent penalties, and manage complex transactions such as intra-group services, international tax services in UAE, or asset sales. For example, FTA penalties for late VAT returns can reach AED 10,000 for first offenses, highlighting the importance of precise compliance.
Why hire a tax consultant in the UAE?
A tax consultant is a trained financial professional who advises on national tax laws, structures transactions for efficiency, ensures compliance with reporting requirements, and represents clients during audits or inquiries. In the UAE, effective tax consultants are familiar with both Federal Tax Authority (FTA) mandates and emirate-specific regulations.
What is a Tax Consultant?
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