How to Register for Corporate Tax in the UAE – 2025 Guide

The UAE officially introduced Corporate Tax (CT) in 2023, marking a major shift for businesses operating in the country. As we move into 2025, it’s mandatory for nearly all companies to be registered with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) — even if they qualify for 0% tax.

“COMPLIANCE ISN’T JUST A LEGAL REQUIREMENT — IT’S A SIGNAL TO CLIENTS AND INVESTORS THAT YOU’RE SERIOUS.”

– JD Business Team

In this blog, we break down who must register, how to do it, and what documents you need to stay legally compliant and avoid fines.

🧾 Who Needs to Register for Corporate Tax in the UAE?

All businesses operating under a:

• Mainland license
• Free Zone license (including FZCO, FZE)
• Branch of a foreign company

…must register for Corporate Tax with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA), even if:

• They are not yet profitable
• They qualify for 0% Free Zone tax regime
• They are small or newly registered

✅ Exemptions: Only specific government entities, natural resource companies, or qualifying public benefit organizations are exempt — but must still apply for exemption status.

🏷️ Corporate Tax Rates in the UAE

🗓️ Key Deadline

All companies must register within their assigned registration window as per FTA timelines. Failure to register will result in an AED 10,000 fine (even if your business earns less than AED 375,000).

✅ Pro Tip: The earlier you register, the better your standing with banks, clients, and suppliers.

🛠️ How to Register for Corporate Tax

You can register online via the FTA’s EmaraTax platform.

📌 Step-by-Step:

Submit and wait for email confirmation with TRN (Tax Registration Number)

Visit https://eservices.tax.gov.ae

Log in with your FTA credentials (or register a new user)

Go to Taxpayer Dashboard → Corporate Tax → Register

Fill in your business details (license number, activity, contact info)

Upload supporting documents (see list below)

📄 Documents Required

Prepare the following:

• Valid Trade License (Mainland or Free Zone)
• Passport copy of shareholders
• Emirates ID (if available)
• Company MOA or AOI
• Lease Agreement (Ejari or Free Zone office agreement)
• Corporate bank account details
• Financial projections (optional but helpful)

✅ Free Zone Companies: You may need to declare your intent to benefit from 0% CT by proving you are a “Qualifying Free Zone Person” (QFZP).

💼 Ongoing Responsibilities After Registration

Once registered, you must:

• File Annual Corporate Tax Returns
• Maintain audited or simplified financial statements
• Notify the FTA of any structural or ownership changes
• Pay tax (if applicable) within 9 months after your financial year-end

✅ Example: If your financial year ends on Dec 31, 2025, your CT return and payment deadline is Sept 30, 2026.

💡 Final Thoughts

Corporate Tax is here to stay — and it’s reshaping how businesses operate in the UAE. The smartest move is to stay ahead of compliance, maintain transparency, and prepare proper books from day one.

JD Business can help you with:

• Corporate Tax registration
• Free Zone QFZP assessment
• VAT registration & filing
• Accounting and bookkeeping setup
• Auditors and tax advisors

We simplify your compliance — so you can focus on growth.