Definition

The Tax Return Deadline is the final date by which a UAE business must submit its VAT or Corporate Tax return to the Federal Tax Authority (FTA). Failing to meet this deadline results in automatic administrative penalties.

Key points

• VAT returns are usually filed quarterly, due 28 days after the end of the tax period.
• Corporate Tax returns are filed annually, due nine months from the end of the financial year.
• Deadlines may vary based on the FTA-assigned tax period.
• Late filing triggers fixed penalties (AED 1,000 for the first offense, AED 2,000 for repeats).

Practical example

A business with a VAT period ending on 30 June must file and pay VAT by 28 July. Missing this deadline leads to an immediate AED 1,000 penalty.

Why it matters

Staying aware of tax return deadlines helps businesses avoid fines, interest, and compliance risks.