The Impact of Corporate Tax on Foreign Investment in the UAE

In recent times, the business landscape in the UAE has undergone a transformative shift with the implementation of corporate tax challenging its traditional status as a tax haven. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the anticipated implications before the corporate tax laws were announced, the current state of foreign investments, and strategic approaches for mitigating potential impacts.

1. Tax Planning Considerations: With the introduction of a 9% corporate tax rate, a departure from the tax-free environment, which was a significant draw for businesses, foreign businesses would need to reassess their tax planning strategies.

2. Competitive Positioning: There were initial concerns and speculations about the UAE’s decision to introduce corporate tax affecting its competitive standing as a business destination. Some investors contemplated exploring other tax-efficient jurisdictions. However, the UAE’s inherent advantages, such as a strategic location, robust infrastructure, and a favourable business environment, as well as its tax rate still being lower than others, would continue to make it an attractive destination for foreign investment.

3. Economic Diversification: The implementation of corporate tax would align with the UAE’s broader economic diversification strategy. Historically reliant on oil and gas sectors, the UAE aimed to reduce this dependency. Revenue generated from corporate tax would contribute to infrastructure development and economic diversification, creating fresh investment opportunities in targeted sectors.

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The availability of a number of effective mitigation strategies that can be employed by foreign businesses operating in the UAE to offset the potential impact of corporate tax, ensure that foreign investment in the country would not be greatly impacted.

1. Restructuring Options: Companies could optimise their tax position by evaluating business structures, such as formation of tax groups or exploring tax-incentive free zones.
2. Tax Planning and Optimisation: Engaging tax professionals well-versed in UAE tax laws could help identify potential tax benefits, exemptions, and deductions. Effective tax strategies would minimise tax liability while ensuring compliance.
3. Investment in Targeted Sectors: Aligning investments in Free Zones with sectors identified for development, such as manufacturing, processing, group headquarter services, etc would offer incentives and exemptions, mitigating the impact of corporate tax.

Promising Foreign Investment Sectors: The UAE is actively engaged in incentivising new economic sectors and identifies the following sectors as promising: fintech, e-commerce, agritech, healthcare, education, tourism, space, logistics services, ICT, manufacturing, medical, renewable energy, media, entertainment, creative industries, gaming, and smart cities.
These thriving domains not only showcase the UAE’s commitment to economic diversification but also serve as a roadmap for potential investors seeking to capitalise on the nation’s dynamic and expanding business landscape.

Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Inflows: According to the UNCTAD’s World Investment Report 2023, FDI inflows to the UAE in 2022 amounted to USD 22.737 billion, ranking 16^th globally. Dubai’s economy grew by 4.4% in 2022, and the emirate aims to double its economy by raising FDI levels to AED 60 billion per year.

NextGenFDI and Investment Incentives: UAE’s economic growth and initiatives like NextGenFDI, which facilitate expedited licencing for investors (particularly tailored for cutting-edge technology companies) from various sectors actively encourage entrepreneurship and foster a welcoming environment for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). The nation has implemented a myriad of incentives, aiming to attract FDI and promote cross-border collaboration.

Free Zones and Qualifying Activities: While free zones were immensely popular pre-tax law announcements, only thirteen activities qualify for tax exemptions, and businesses must structure themselves accordingly. Despite the complexity, the competitive 9% tax rate makes free zones attractive. The thirteen qualifying activities below have also meant that a further increase in direct foreign investment in these businesses would be expected to be seen:

1. Manufacturing of goods or materials.
2. Processing of goods or materials.
3. Trading of Qualifying Commodities.
4. Holding of shares and other securities for investment purposes.
5. Ownership, management, and operation of Ships.
6. Reinsurance services.
7. Fund management services.
8. Wealth and investment management services.
9. Headquarter services to Related Parties.
10. Treasury and financing services to Related Parties.
11. Financing and leasing of Aircrafts.
12. Distribution of goods or materials in or from a Designated Zone.
13. Logistics services.

Transparency and Confidence Boost: Corporate tax laws have led to increased transparency, enhancing investor confidence. Clear regulations and guidelines contribute to a stable and predictable business environment.

In conclusion, while the introduction of corporate tax marked a paradigm shift, the UAE’s strategic initiatives, investment-friendly policies, and competitive tax rates continue to position it as an attractive destination for foreign investment. Foreign businesses can navigate the evolving landscape with informed strategies, leveraging the opportunities presented by targeted sectors and maintaining confidence in the UAE’s resilient and dynamic business environment.

AKW Consultants has a dedicated team of International and Corporate Tax experts who can help with seamless navigation through the complexities involved in the law. Contact us today: info@akwconsultants.com