In the UAE's fast-evolving regulatory environment, businesses are required to comply with various legal, financial, and tax-related obligations set by government authorities like the Federal Tax Authority (FTA), Ministry of Economy (MoE), and local departments. These compliance services include adhering to VAT regulations, corporate tax filings, UBO (Ultimate Beneficial Ownership) reporting, and AML (Anti-Money Laundering) guidelines.
At Shuraa Tax, we are a team of experienced accountants, auditors, and tax advisors in Dubai, UAE, committed to helping businesses stay compliant with local laws and regulations. Our tailored compliance services in Dubai ensure that your company not only meets legal requirements but also operates efficiently and risk-free in a dynamic regulatory environment.
What Are Compliance Services in the UAE?
Compliance services in the UAE refer to professional support ensuring your business activities meet all the legal, financial, and regulatory standards set by UAE government authorities. These include adhering to federal laws, free zone and mainland regulations, and global best practices in taxation, anti-money laundering, corporate governance, and more.
Key regulatory bodies that enforce compliance in the UAE include:
- Federal Tax Authority (FTA)
- Ministry of Economy (MOE)
- Dubai Economic Department (DED)
- Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU)
- Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA)
Why Are Compliance Services Crucial for Businesses in the UAE?
Dubai is a dynamic and globally connected business hub with a strong focus on transparency, accountability, and international standards. Non-compliance can result in:
- Heavy penalties and fines
- Business license suspension or cancellation
- Legal consequences and reputational damage
- Disruption in banking and investor relationships
With Shuraa Tax, you can avoid such risks and confidently meet your statutory obligations on time.
Key Compliance Services in Dubai, UAE
Businesses in the UAE must comply with a variety of legal and regulatory frameworks to operate without disruption. Here are the key tax & regulatory compliance services in Dubai, UAE:
1. Corporate Tax Compliance
With the introduction of the UAE Corporate Tax Law (Federal Decree-Law No. 47 of 2022), businesses in the UAE are now subject to corporate tax, which came into effect on June 1, 2023.
The standard corporate tax rate is set at 9% for taxable income exceeding AED 375,000. For income below this threshold, businesses are taxed at 0%. Therefore, UAE businesses must:
- Register for corporate tax with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA)
- File annual corporate tax returns
- Maintain and submit audited financial statements
- Ensure compliance with transfer pricing documentation (where applicable)
- Stay updated with tax deadlines and FTA notifications
Our team ensures accurate corporate tax registration, reporting, proper classification of income, and compliance with deductible and non-deductible expenses. We also offer tax planning to help reduce your corporate tax liability.
2. VAT Compliance Services
The Value Added Tax (VAT) was introduced in the UAE on January 1, 2018, under Federal Decree-Law No. 8 of 2017. It is currently levied at a standard rate of 5% on most goods and services, and all taxable businesses must adhere strictly to the VAT laws as set by the Federal Tax Authority (FTA).
As per UAE VAT Law (introduced in 2018), businesses exceeding the turnover threshold of AED 375,000 must:
- Register for VAT with the FTA
- Maintain tax invoices and records as per UAE standards
- Submit VAT returns (monthly or quarterly)
- File Voluntary Disclosures for errors in previous returns
- Respond to VAT audits and tax assessments
We assist businesses with VAT registration, VAT de-registration, VAT return filing, VAT refunds, and offer expert advice on zero-rated, exempt, and standard-rated supplies, helping you avoid penalties.
3. Ultimate Beneficial Ownership (UBO) Compliance
Under the UAE Cabinet Resolution No. 58 of 2020, businesses must disclose the Ultimate Beneficial Owners (UBOs), individuals who ultimately own or control at least 25% of the company. This ensures compliance with international anti-money laundering standards.
We help businesses:
- Identify and verify UBOs based on shareholding, control, or influence
- Prepare and submit UBO Disclosure Forms to relevant authorities
- Maintain an up-to-date UBO Register and Partners Register
- Update records with any changes in ownership structure
4. Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Compliance
Businesses involved in Designated Non-Financial Businesses and Professions (DNFBPs) such as real estate, auditing, gold trading, and legal consultancy must comply with AML regulations. Our services include:
- Risk-based AML policy and procedure development
- goAML registration with the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU)
- Preparation and submission of Suspicious Transaction Reports (STRs)
- AML risk assessment and internal training for staff
- Periodic AML health checks and compliance audits
We ensure you comply with Federal Decree-Law No. 20 of 2018 on AML and the Cabinet Decision No. 10 of 2019.
5. Audit and Financial Reporting Compliance
To enhance transparency, many free zones, mainland authorities, and banks now require audited financials. Shuraa Tax provides:
- Preparation of financial statements in accordance with IFRS
- Internal audit and external audit coordination
- Compliance with Commercial Companies Law and authority-specific requirements
- Support for regulatory or investor-driven financial reporting needs
- Liaison with external auditors for clean audit outcomes
We ensure your books are audit-ready, reducing delays in license renewal, bank operations, or investor due diligence.
6. Corporate Governance & Internal Controls
Strong internal frameworks reduce compliance risks. Our services include:
- Assistance in complying with UAE Commercial Companies Law (CCL)
- Drafting board resolutions, meeting minutes, and internal policies
- Development of SOPs, risk registers, and code of conduct
- Review of entity structure, shareholding, and management practices
- Ensuring alignment with governance norms in free zones and for LLC entities
Proper corporate governance enhances investor trust and minimizes legal exposure.
7. Wages Protection System (WPS) Compliance
WPS is a mandatory payroll system launched by the UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) to ensure timely and transparent salary payments. We help businesses:
- Register with WPS through approved UAE banks or agents
- Prepare and process Salary Information Files (SIF)
- Comply with UAE Labour Law regarding salary timelines and structures
- Avoid fines, employee disputes, and labour bans
WPS is compulsory for all private sector companies with employees. Non-compliance can result in ban on new work permits, hefty fines, and license suspension.
8. Business License Renewal
All businesses in the UAE are required to renew their business licenses annually. The renewal process ensures that your business remains legally active and compliant with the regulatory authorities. Here's how we help businesses stay compliant:
- We manage the complete license renewal process on time.
- We ensure all renewal documents are accurate and complete.
- Timely renewals help you avoid fines and legal issues.
Why Choose Shuraa Tax for Compliance Services in the UAE?
Choosing the right compliance partner is essential for staying ahead in the UAE’s ever-evolving regulatory environment, and that’s where Shuraa Tax stands out.
Expertise Across Industries
We serve businesses in trade, real estate, technology, healthcare, logistics, and more.
Certified Professionals
Our team includes FTA-approved tax agents, seasoned auditors, and regulatory compliance experts.
Tailored Services
Customised solutions based on your business size, structure, and industry requirements.
End-to-End Support
From registration to reporting, we manage everything so you can focus on growth.
Who Needs Compliance Services in the UAE?
Almost every business in Dubai and across the UAE is subject to some form of compliance. This includes:
- Mainland companies
- Free zone entities
- Multinational corporations
- SMEs and startups
- Real estate and brokerage firms
- Crypto and fintech businesses
If your business is licensed in the UAE, staying compliant is not optional – it's essential.
Let Shuraa Tax Handle Your Compliance
Don't let regulatory complexities hinder your growth. Whether you're unsure about new laws or facing penalties, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Contact us today to book your free consultation and discover how our expert compliance services in Dubai can keep your business on the right track.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, starting June 2023, businesses meeting the threshold must register and file corporate tax returns as per FTA guidelines.
Yes, registration is mandatory regardless of income. Shuraa Tax can help assess your eligibility.
The Wages Protection System (WPS) is a UAE government initiative that ensures timely and transparent salary payments through approved banking channels. It's mandatory for all companies registered with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).
UBO (Ultimate Beneficial Ownership) compliance involves disclosing the individuals who ultimately own or control a company. It promotes transparency and aligns your business with the UAE’s anti-money laundering laws.
