Corporate Tax Return Filing in Dubai
Al Zarooni & Associates
For many UAE businesses, corporate tax return filing is no longer theoretical. The first filing deadlines are now real, and errors made at this stage can trigger penalties, FTA queries, or future audit exposure.
At Al Zarooni & Associates, we support businesses with accurate corporate tax return filing in Dubai, focusing on correct income reconciliation, proper disclosures, and audit-ready submissions. Our role is to help businesses meet their obligations clearly and calmly — without unnecessary risk.
As a trusted accounting and audit firm in Dubai, we approach tax filing as a compliance responsibility, not a formality.
Why businesses in Dubai need professional corporate tax return filing
Corporate tax returns in the UAE must be filed through the EmaraTax portal within 9 months from the financial year-end. While this sounds straightforward, most errors occur in the details behind the numbers.
Common issues we see include:
- Accounting profits not properly reconciled to taxable income
- Missed adjustments for exempt or non-deductible items
- Incorrect free zone or small business relief treatment
- Incomplete transfer pricing disclosures
- Late submissions due to unclear internal timelines
The consequences may include:
- Late filing penalties: AED 1,000–2,000
- Underpayment penalties: 5%–50% depending on circumstances
- Increased likelihood of FTA queries or audits
- Delays in license renewals or banking processes
Professional filing reduces these risks and provides a clear compliance trail.
Who this service is designed for
This corporate tax return filing service is relevant for:
SMEs filing their first UAE corporate tax return
Businesses with profits above AED 375,000
Free zone companies assessing qualifying income
Groups with related-party transactions
International businesses with UAE branches or permanent establishments
How our corporate tax return filing service works – a practical, compliant approach
Initial review of financial records
We review trial balances, income statements, and supporting schedules for consistency and completeness.
Taxable income reconciliation
Accounting profit is reconciled to taxable profit with clear documentation of adjustments.
Disclosure assessment
Related-party transactions, relief claims, and free zone positions are reviewed for correct disclosure.
EmaraTax return preparation and submission
The corporate tax return is prepared and submitted through the FTA portal with validation checks.
Post-Filing Support
We assist with FTA queries, clarifications, or follow-up requests after submission.
What this means for your business: fewer surprises after filing and stronger audit readiness.
How corporate tax return filing actually helps your business (at a glance)
| Business Challenge | What Usually Goes Wrong | How Our VAT Registration Service Helps |
|---|---|---|
| Filing deadlines | Late or rushed submissions | Structured filing calendar |
| Income reconciliation | Accounting vs tax mismatch | Documented tax adjustments |
| Penalty exposure | Errors found after filing | Pre-submission review |
| Internal workload | Finance teams overstretched | Outsourced filing expertise |
| Audit readiness | Records not aligned | Audit-ready documentation |
Types of corporate tax services we provide under return filing
Annual corporate tax return preparation and submission
Taxable income reconciliation support
Free zone qualifying income review
Small business relief assessment
Transfer pricing disclosure guidance
FTA post-filing query support
What businesses gain from outsourcing corporate tax return filing
Lower risk of penalties and FTA follow-ups
Clear documentation supporting tax positions
Predictable compliance timelines
Reduced internal pressure during filing season
Better alignment between accounting and tax records
UAE-specific considerations businesses often overlook
Corporate tax returns are due 9 months after financial year-end
Transfer pricing documentation may be required even if no tax is payable
Free zone benefits depend on maintaining qualifying income conditions
Records must be retained for at least 5 years
FTA reviews may occur well after filing
These areas often become relevant only when a query or audit arises.
Cost Structure & Pricing Approach
Corporate tax return filing fees depend on complexity, transaction volume, and disclosures required:
Fixed annual filing
typically AED 3,000–7,000
Ongoing compliance retainer
AED 8,000–15,000 per year
Transfer pricing documentation
project-based, depending on scope
Fees are structured around risk management and compliance accuracy, not speed or volume.
Why choose Al Zarooni & Associates for corporate tax return filing in Dubai
Hands-on experience since the 2023 corporate tax rollout
Strong understanding of EmaraTax return structures
Integrated accounting, audit, and tax capability
Clear communication focused on compliance clarity
Our clients value working with the experienced team at Al Zarooni & Associates who understand what happens after the return is filed.
Frequently asked questions about corporate tax return filing in Dubai
Corporate tax returns are due within 9 months from the end of the financial year. For example, a 31 December year-end has a filing deadline of 30 September.
Most UAE businesses that are registered for corporate tax must file a return, even if they qualify for small business relief or free zone benefits.
Trial balance, income statement, supporting schedules, related-party details, and relevant disclosures are typically required.
Late filing can attract penalties and may increase scrutiny from the Federal Tax Authority.
For many businesses, outsourcing reduces errors, saves internal time, and improves audit readiness.
Contact Al Zarooni & Associates for expert guidance
If you are unsure how your corporate tax return should be prepared or filed, a short consultation can help clarify your position.
You may contact Al Zarooni Associates through our website to discuss your filing requirements calmly and professionally.