The concept of Dubai tax residency and Emirate tax residency is becoming more and more important for individuals and companies who want to benefit from the tax advantages offered by the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Obtaining tax residency in Dubai or other Emirates is a legal procedure that confirms that the official tax residence of an individual or company is in the UAE.
This tax status allows the optimization of international taxation and the avoidance of double taxation, in the event that the person or company obtains income in several jurisdictions.
Who can get Dubai tax residency or Emirate tax residency?
Dubai tax residency or Emirate tax residency can be obtained by both individuals and companies, subject to certain essential conditions.
Individuals Eligible for Dubai Tax Residency:
To apply for tax residency in Dubai, you must meet one of the following conditions:
•To have your main residence in Dubai or another Emirate.
•Be physically present in the UAE for a period of at least 183 days during the last year.
•To have permanent residence and economic activities in Dubai (place of work or own business).
Companies Eligible for UAE Tax Residency:
A company can apply for Emirate tax residency if:
•It is legally registered in the UAE and carries out real economic activities.
•It has an active physical and operational presence in the Emirates.
•It presents official accounting documents and has been active for at least one year.
Important:Offshore companies that do not have actual business in the Emirates cannot apply for the Dubai Tax Residency Certificate.
Documents required for obtaining Dubai tax residency or Emirate tax residency:
To obtain tax residency in Dubai or other Emirates, it is necessary to prepare a complete dossier with the relevant supporting documents.
Individuals:
•Copy of passport.
•Copy of UAE residency visa.
•Emirati ID Card
•Proof of address in Dubai (utility bills, lease agreement).
•Immigration report attesting days spent in UAE.
•Bank statement for the last 6 months.
•Updated salary certificate or other evidence of economic activity.
Companies:
•Valid Commercial License.
•Memorandum of Association (MOA).
•Bank account statement for the last 6 months.
•Audited Financial Statements.
•Immigration report for company representatives.
Dubai and Emirate Tax Residency Obtaining Procedure — Essential Steps
The process of obtaining tax residency in Dubai is digitized and efficient, being carried out through the official portal of the UAE Tax Authority.
Main steps:
1. Eligibility check.
2. Preparation of the necessary documentation.
3. Online registration on the portal of the UAE Tax Authority.
4th. Filling out the application for Dubai tax residency or Emirate tax residency.
5. Loading the required documents.
6. Processing the application and obtaining the certificate of tax residency in electronic form.
The application processing time is generally between 4 and 7 business days.
Benefits of Dubai Tax Residency and Emirate Tax Residency
Obtaining tax residency in Dubai or other Emirates brings multiple benefits for both individuals and companies:
•Avoiding double taxation under international treaties.
•Increased credibility in relations with international tax authorities.
•Optimization of tax planning and investment strategies.
•Easier access to foreign markets without additional tax burdens.
•Simplification of administrative procedures and tax compliance.
Obtaining tax resident status in Dubai or the United Arab Emirates is an important strategic opportunity for individuals and companies operating internationally. Dubai tax residency provides a solid and advantageous legal framework for tax optimization, double taxation avoidance, and business development in the Gulf region and beyond.
If you live or have a business in Dubai, obtaining tax residency is an essential move for effective financial planning and for the protection of your income in accordance with international law.
