Corporate Tax in the UAE: What Will It Really Impact?
Welcome to Episode 2 of Rethink’s Corporate Tax Mini Podcast Series. In this instalment, we move beyond the basics and examine how the UAE’s corporate tax (CT) regime will impact businesses—across every level and structure.
In Episode 2 of Rethink’s Corporate Tax mini-series, Neil Guthrie (Head of Finance & Tax at Rethink) is joined by Keerthi Voodimudi (Director of Tax) continue the conversation by examining the real operational impact of corporate tax (CT) on UAE businesses.
While Episode 1 introduced the basics—scope, rates, and timelines—this episode focuses on what business leaders should be doing now to prepare across key areas, including:
- Legal structure and business models
- Contracts, pricing, and related-party transactions
- Record-keeping, accounting standards, and digital readiness
- Free zone compliance and substance requirements
- Anti-abuse regulations and restructuring risks
The team emphasises that CT is not just a finance concern, but one that touches every part of your organisation. For those operating in or with free zones, compliance with transfer pricing and qualifying income rules will be crucial to maintaining 0% CT status.
They also outline a high-level tax planning timeline and caution that certain provisions—like anti-abuse measures—are already in force.
Businesses cannot afford to wait until filing deadlines. Planning must begin before the next financial year starts.
Listen to Episode 2 to understand how to structure your corporate tax response—and why early action gives your business a strategic advantage.
