President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan has issued the landmark Federal Law No. 7 of 2017 for Tax Procedures, which sets the foundations for the planned UAE tax system, regulating the administration and collection of taxes and clearly defining the role of the Federal Tax Authority (FTA).
"The Tax Procedures Law is a significant milestone towards establishing the UAE’s tax system and diversifying the economy,” said Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, UAE Minister of Finance and FTA Chairman, reported Wam.
The law is focused on collection of tax, largely VAT and excise which comes into effect 1st January 2018, state news agency Wam reported. There was no reference made to personal income tax, and government officials have previously said there are no plans to tax individuals on their earnings.
The law covers tax procedures, audits, objections, refunds, collection, and obligations – which include tax registration, tax-return preparation, submissions, payment and voluntary disclosure rules – in addition to tax evasion and general provisions.
When the Tax Procedures Law comes into effect, all UAE-based businesses will be required to keep accurate records for five years. The law also sets penalties for non-compliance, as well as clear processes for appeals which align with international best practices, and establishes a fair and transparent environment for the FTA to carry out its mandate.