The Two Numbers Every UAE Business Owner Must Know: 7 and 9
As a business owner in the UAE, you're focused on growth, innovation, and serving your clients.
But there are two numbers, recently highlighted by the Federal Tax Authority (FTA), that are just as crucial to your success: seven and nine.
Ignoring them could lead to significant financial penalties and unnecessary stress.
Let's break down what these numbers mean for you and how you can turn a compliance task into a business advantage.
The 7-Year Rule: Your Business's Financial Memory
The FTA has mandated that all businesses, yes, even those exempt from Corporate Tax, must maintain complete and accurate financial records for at least seven years after the end of the tax period.
But what does this really mean? It's more than just keeping a shoebox of receipts. Think of it as your business's official financial diary.
The FTA needs to be able to pick it up and understand your company's financial story at any point in the last seven years. This includes:
Daily Transactions: Every invoice you send and every bill you pay.
Assets & Liabilities: Records of what your company owns and what it owes.
Equity Stakes: Documentation of ownership and shareholdings.
Why this isn't just a chore: Meticulous record-keeping isn't just about avoiding FTA penalties. It's the bedrock of smart business strategy. With organised financials, you can make better-informed decisions, track profitability with precision, and present a compelling case to banks or investors when you need to. It transforms compliance from a burden into a powerful tool for growth.
The 9-Month Countdown: The Deadline That Won't Wait
The second critical number is nine. Your business must file its Corporate Tax return and pay any tax due within nine months from the end of its financial year.
For most businesses, the financial year ends on December 31st. If this is you, your deadline is September 30th of the following year.
Financial Year Ends: 31 December 2025
Filing & Payment Deadline: 30 September 2026
This may seem like a long time, but it will arrive faster than you think. Waiting until the last minute is a recipe for rushed work, costly errors, and potential fines for late submission or incorrect filings.
The key is to have your books in order throughout the year, making the final filing process smooth and seamless.
Don't Navigate Corporate Tax Alone
The UAE's tax landscape is new and can feel complex. From understanding your obligations to managing everything on the EmaraTax platform, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. Penalties for non-compliance are steep, and a simple oversight can have a major impact on your bottom line.
This is where a trusted partner makes all the difference.
As FTA-registered tax agents, the team at Zyla Accountants does more than just file your returns.
We provide the clarity and strategy you need to stay ahead. We ensure your records are impeccable, your filings are accurate, and your deadlines are always met, giving you complete peace of mind.
Ready to make compliance your competitive edge?
Don't let deadlines and regulations distract you from what you do best. Let us handle the complexities of UAE Corporate Tax.
Contact Zyla Accountants today for a complimentary consultation and ensure your business is set up for success.