Summa Accounting & Consultancy

UAE BUSINESS: FTA GUIDANCE
What language for accounting records in the UAE? The Authority may accept tax records and documents in English. It may request translation into Arabic. If requested, submit a legally approved translation by the deadline

UAE BUSINESS: FTA ALERT – What details must you update on EmaraTax? Notify the Authority within 20 business days if you change name, address, email, trade licence activities, legal entity type, constitutional documents, nature of business, or business address. Stay compliant, avoid penalties

UAE BUSINESS: FTA UPDATE
Can you keep accounting records digitally in the UAE? Yes. Under Cabinet Decision No. 17 of 2026, keep originals or identical electronic copies. Copies must match the original, stay readable, and be available when the Authority requests them

UAE BUSINESS: KEY COMPLIANCE – How long to keep tax records in the UAE? 5 years for taxable persons, 7 years for real estate records. Retention extends during audits, disputes, refund claims, or voluntary disclosures. Don’t destroy records too early

“UAE BUSINESS: FTA COMPLIANCE – What accounting records should every UAE business have? Balance sheet, profit and loss account, wages records, fixed asset records, inventory and stock counts. Good records make tax reviews and audits easier

UAE BUSINESS: KEY COMPLIANCE
What records do I need to keep for my UAE business? Invoices, contracts, correspondence, licences, plus all documents supporting tax calculations and filings.
If it supports your accounting or tax position, keep it

In the UAE, buying property personally is generally simpler and can be tax-free.
Purchasing in your own name usually avoids the extra paperwork and legal steps required for company ownership, making the process straightforward for individual investors.

Are you looking for specific steps on how to buy property personally in the UAE?

UAE PROPERTY: THE QUESTIONS EVERYONE ASKS – Do I pay tax on rental income or property sales?

For individuals, there’s no income tax & no capital gains tax on property in the UAE

UAEProperty

UAE PROPERTY: FREQUENT QUESTION – Is there inheritance tax in the UAE? *NO*. No inheritance tax applies in the UAE

Departing the UAE? You could still owe taxes overseas. Obtaining a UAE Tax Residency Certificate may reduce your foreign tax burden, though eligibility isn’t universal.
We help you assess qualification and manage the certification process.

Exiting the UAE? You may remain liable for taxes in another country.
A UAE Tax Residency Certificate can provide relief, yet not all qualify.
We assist you in verifying eligibility and handling the application.

Moving out of the UAE? You might still face taxes abroad.
A UAE Tax Residency Certificate can give you relief, but eligibility varies.
We guide you through checking qualifications and managing the whole process.