UAE Excise Tax Update Effective 1 January 2026: Tiered Sugar-Based Tax on Sweetened Drinks Explained
A Major Shift in UAE Excise Tax Policy from 2026 The UAE continues to refine its tax framework in line with global best practices and public health objectives. From 1 January 2026, a significant update to the UAE Excise Tax regime will come into effect, directly impacting producers, importers, and stockpilers of sweetened drinks. Under […]
UAE’s 15% Domestic Minimum Top-up Tax & New Incentives: What Businesses Must Know in 2025
Introduction: The UAE’s Next Big Tax Shift The UAE has long been known for its investor-friendly environment, zero personal income tax, and highly competitive corporate tax regime (including free zone person benefit). But in July 2025, the Ministry of Finance announced a major change for multinational enterprises (MNEs): the introduction of a 15% Domestic Minimum […]
DMCC Records Strong H1 2025 Growth: Over 1,100 New Companies, 700+ Crypto Members, and Expanding Global Footprint
The DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre) has reinforced its position as one of the world’s leading business districts, welcoming more than 1,100 new companies in the first half of 2025. This milestone takes DMCC’s total membership base to nearly 26,000 companies, further strengthening Dubai’s role as a global hub for trade, technology, and investment. At the same time, DMCC’s […]
TRN Verification in UAE: Steps to check TRN Validity
TRN Verification or VAT Verification has become very important, considering the potential frauds involved with Value Added Tax (VAT). Miscreants can charge VAT using a fake TRN while pocketing the rest of the money which results in revenue loss for the government. In this article, we will have a look at the steps to verify TRN in UAE.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_DD9aUgPmrs What […]
JAFZA / Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority | All you need to know
JAFZA / Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority is one of the most glorified free zones in the whole United Arab Emirates, which contributes 23.8 percent to Dubai’s GDP and provides livelihood to 135,000 people. At JAFZA, there are more than 7000 established companies. Out of those seven thousand Jebel Ali Free Zone companies, approximately a […]
UAE Cracks Down on Financial Crime Ahead of 2026 FATF Review
As the UAE prepares for the 2026 review by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), a decisive shift is underway in the nation’s regulatory and enforcement landscape. With high-profile appointments across key financial regulators and intensified scrutiny of high-risk sectors, the country is reinforcing its stance against financial crime—sending a strong message to both businesses […]
Beyond Compliance: Aligning AML and ESG for Strategic Leadership in the UAE
As the UAE cements its position as a global investment hub, the expectations placed on corporate governance are rapidly evolving. Today’s business leaders are not just expected to comply—they are expected to lead. In this new environment, the convergence of Anti-Money Laundering (AML) frameworks and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) mandates is reshaping how companies […]
VATP044: FTA’s Clarification on Concerned Services, Tax Invoices, and Input Tax Recovery
In its ongoing efforts to ensure clarity and consistency in the application of VAT in the UAE, the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) has issued Public Clarification VATP044, titled “Concerned Services – Accounting for Output Tax, Issuing Tax Invoices, and Input Tax Recovery.” This clarification provides important guidance for VAT-registered businesses receiving services from outside the […]
UAE Central Bank’s AML Crackdown: What It Means for Banks and How to Stay Compliant
Introduction: A Regulatory Wake-Up Call for the Financial Sector In a decisive move on May 28, 2025, the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) imposed fines totaling Dh18.1 million on two foreign banks for violations of anti-money laundering (AML) regulations. This enforcement action highlights the UAE’s strengthened regulatory stance and its unwavering commitment to combating […]