Category: Recent Updates
CBUAE Issues New AML/CFT Guidelines for the Insurance Industry
HLB HAMT News Team
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New anti-money laundering (AML) and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (CFT) guidelines have been released by the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) for the Licensed Financial Institutions (LFIs) in the insurance sector, which includes insurance and re-insurance firms, agents, and brokers.
The guidelines go through how insurance operators should use preventative measures to detect, analyze, monitor, and prevent money laundering and funding of terrorism risks that are pertinent to life insurance and other investment-related insurance products.
The Role of Due Diligence
- Conduct due diligence on each client,
- Comprehend the type of the customer’s business,
- The purpose of the operator’s relationship with the customer,
- Should maintain transaction monitoring systems, and
- Subject all customers to continual surveillance during the business relationship.
Any activity that may be connected to money laundering, terrorist financing, or a criminal offence must be reported by sending suspicious activity or transaction reports straight to the UAE’s Financial Intelligence Unit via the “goAML” site.
Financial institutions throughout the globe, particularly those in the Gulf region, are discovering that it is more and more challenging to apply new legislation and create complete compliance systems as the regulatory framework evolves and becomes more demanding. However, the government has put in place rigorous regulations to prevent money laundering and terrorist funding in the UAE.
HLB HAMT is a renowned consultancy firm conducting impartial evaluations of anti-money laundering compliance systems in many sectors. Our team of professionals can assist you in developing, implementing, and enhancing your compliance programme for financial and other designated non-financial organisations.
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The UAE’s Ministry of Finance Launches Corporate Tax Awareness Workshops for Business Communities
HLB HAMT News Team
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Following the publication of the Federal Decree-Law on Taxation of Corporations and Businesses, the Ministry of Finance of the United Arab Emirates has commenced a Corporate Tax Public Awareness workshop. The first corporate tax public awareness session will take place on January 9 in Abu Dhabi, according to the ministry announcement.
Schedule of Workshops
| Monday 9th Jan, 2023 11:00 TO 12:30 | ABU DHABI Rosewood Hotel | OVERVIEW OF UAE CORPORATE TAX Session Language: English |
| Monday 16th Jan, 2023 09:30 TO 11:00 | DUBAI Ritz Carlton DIFC | OVERVIEW OF UAE CORPORATE TAX Session Language: English |
| Monday 23rd Jan, 2023 09:30 TO 11:00 | VIRTUAL | OVERVIEW OF UAE CORPORATE TAX Session Language: English |
| Monday 6th Feb, 2023 | SHARJAH | OVERVIEW OF UAE CORPORATE TAX Session Language: English |
| Monday 13th Feb, 2023 | RAS AL KHAIMAH | OVERVIEW OF UAE CORPORATE TAX Session Language: English |
| Monday 20th Feb, 2023 | FUJAIRAH | OVERVIEW OF UAE CORPORATE TAX Session Language: Arabic |
- Closed recordings of CT awareness will take place six weeks from 20th Feb – 27th March 2023
- Virtual sessions on the Webinar platform will be conducted from April to December 2023
Although everyone is welcome to attend the workshops, chief financial officers, tax directors and managers, legal counsels, business owners, and other business executives from all industries are the main targeted group.
The Ministry of Finance’s tax specialists will lead workshops that are intended to increase knowledge, offer a dependable forum for open dialogue, answer inquiries from diverse business sectors, and promote awareness.
In addition to addressing specialised areas like computing taxable income, tax relief, tax groups, transfer pricing, and other subjects, attendees will receive a summary of the corporate tax legislation, including scope, rates, important concepts, exempted individuals, free zones, administration, and deadlines.
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The United Arab Emirates has issued its first federal “Corporate Tax Law”
HLB HAMT News Team
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His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, has released the federal decree law No. 47 of 2022 on the taxation of corporations and businesses, referred to as the “corporate tax law.” A federal corporate tax will be implemented in the UAE on the basis of the corporate tax law, and it will go into effect for fiscal years beginning on or after June 1, 2023.
For the first time ever in the history of the UAE, corporate tax is being put into effect. The corporate tax will be applicable to all UAE businesses and legal entities or individuals conducting business in all emirates. Corporate tax management, collection, and administration shall be handled by the UAE Federal Tax Authority in conformity with the rules and regulations. The implementation of a corporate tax supports the nation’s goal of expanding its revenue sources and lowering its reliance on oil, which has traditionally served as the foundation of the economy.
Getting ready for and adhering to the new federal corporate tax will be a challenging path through uncharted territory for many UAE enterprises. HLB HAMT can provide you with a clear picture of what to anticipate from the law and what it will entail for the management and operation of your whole company. With our expertise by your side, you won’t have to worry since we have an in-depth understanding of UAE accounting, tax, and free zone operations, allowing us to offer our clients the best answers to the challenges.
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The “EMARA TAX” has been launched by the UAE’s Federal Tax Authority
HLB HAMT News Team
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On 05 December 2022, the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) launched EmaraTax, an unified communication and entirely created digital platform for managing taxes in UAE. The switch from the old system to the new infrastructure was smooth, and all current users’ information was successfully transferred to EmaraTax, allowing them to comfortably utilise the advanced interactive platform without having any impact on any of the authority’s customers operations.
FTA Director-General Khalid Ali Al Bustani said, “The launch of EmaraTax is a significant step forward and also a milestone in the FTA’s ambitious plans to become a leading digital authority in the tax sector, marking a notable leap forward towards advancing the UAE’s tax system.”
Let’s examine some of the main characteristics of the Emara Tax.
Increased compliance is assured
Emara Tax will give a comprehensive overview, guarantee smooth interaction with all stakeholders, optimize administrative services, connect to numerous key taxpayer services, and lead to more effective processes and a higher taxpayer experience. As a result, FTA will be able to increase compliance and reduce risks.
Submitting a VAT return
The ability to obtain an excel version of the VAT return and submit it to the website using the new functionality reduces the possibility of network issues while manually entering the data online.
Access and track your whole activity history
The new portal enables you to follow the status of all your filed applications to the FTA and allows you to examine all of your correspondence with the FTA in one location.
Deregistration Process Streamlined
De-registration will be automatically granted upon filing of the last VAT return with the FTA-approved deregistration commencement, providing there is no outstanding taxpayer due.
Additional security measures
Taxpayers may now log in to the new Emaratax platform using their registered email address or an Emirates ID that is connected to a UAE pass. Additionally, it permits two-factor verification when logging into the account.
Reactivation of TRN
It is now possible for the individual who deregistered when their taxable supplies fell below the obligatory or voluntary level to reactivate their TRN through the action menu.
Bottom Line
EmaraTax would improve the UAE’s capacity to manage taxes by facilitating better, quicker choices and early engagement with taxpayers. EmaraTax collaborates with significant national technology-based initiatives like UAE PASS and prominent government bodies like the UAE Central Bank as part of its attempts to simplify the user engagement. Additionally, this fits in with the UAE’s national digital strategy, which aims to take advantage of emerging technology and create a strong digital infrastructure for both individuals and companies.
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UAE Finance Ministry modifies certain VAT Regulations, beginning January 2023
HLB News Team
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Modifications to some of the provisions of the federal decree legislation No. 8 of 2017 on value-added tax have been announced by the UAE’s Ministry of Finance (MoF) and will come into force on January 1, 2023.
The Federal Decree-Law No. 18 of 2022, which modifies several sections of Federal Decree-Law No. 8 of 2017 on VAT, among other significant changes, includes the following:
- Authorized individuals who produce taxable supplies are eligible to request for an exemption from VAT registration, if all their supplies are zero-rated or if they withhold any other supplies besides zero-rated supplies.
- Providing a 14-day window for the issuance of a tax credit note to pay output tax, in accordance with the window designated for the issuance of tax invoices.
- In some circumstances, the Federal Tax Authority may find it appropriate to forcefully deregister registered individuals.
Additionally, the Decree-Law updates several clauses in order to make them more clear and reinforce their intended meaning, to rewrite them, or to better align them within the legislative structure.
In view of the GCC Unified VAT Agreement, the modifications implemented are in accordance with global best practices. They are based on personal experiences, difficulties experienced by various business sectors, and suggestions from parties concerned. As part of its efforts to broaden its economy and lessen its reliance on oil, the UAE adopted a 5% VAT on the majority of products and services in 2018, and no further adjustments were announced to the VAT rate, which remains at 5%.
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Umm Al Quwain (UAQ) has declared the fine cancellation for delayed or revoked business licenses
HLB News Team
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According to resolution No. 5 for 2022, which was issued by His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Rashid Al Mu’alla, a member of the Supreme Council and the ruler of Umm Al Quwain, implies that the fines collected on business entities in the UAQ emirate that are registered with the Department of Economic Development for delayed or terminated licenses must be cancelled.
The resolution which will go into effect on the day it is issued, be effective through December 31, and be released in the Official Gazette, will encourage the UAQ emirate’s citizens and businesses. The resolution further states that the UAQ Department of Economic Development shall offer suitable assistance in accordance with pertinent requirements.
A brief about Umm Al Quwain
A vibrant, pleasant, and engaging workplace environment is generated by Umm Al Quwain, which has been nicknamed the “free zone of the future.” Due to its stable economy, welcoming investment environment, and affordable labour costs, the emirate has experienced tremendous growth since its formation in 2014, making it an attractive commercial hub in the United Arab Emirates.
The free zone’s advantageous geography, adjacent to the main seaports in the United Arab Emirates and the international airports in Dubai and Sharjah, contributes to its appeal.
HLB HAMT will assist you in setting up a business in Umm Al Quwain on schedule and within your budget. Our experts handle the correct documentation for government registrations, company secretarial services, visa services, and other approvals.
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DMCC Plans to Implement Wage Protection System (WPS) for its Entities
HLB News Team
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Headquartered in Dubai, Dubai Multi Commodities Center (DMCC) is one of the most connected free zones in the world and the leading hub for business and trade in commodities. DMCC offers a wide range of world-class financial services, trading resources, and investment platforms and provides easy access to the world’s key commodities markets.
To curb unscrupulous practices and enhance employee welfare, DMCC Free Zone is currently working on adopting wage protection system (WPS) for firms registered with them. DMCC Free Zone will be the second Free Zone after JAFZA to fully adopt the use of WPS.
A brief about WPS
The Wage Protection System (WPS) is an electronic salary transfer system that allows institutions and organizations in the private sector to pay their employees through banks, exchange bureaus, and financial institutions approved by the UAE Central Bank to provide the service. UAE WPS was introduced in 2009 by the UAE Central Bank to meet the desired objectives of the Ministry of Labour. The purpose of WPS is to ensure wages are paid on time and in full. Currently, it is applicable to the private sector under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MOHRE) and Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority (JAFZA) All government entities and public-sector institutions are exempted from WPS compliance.
If you would like to know more about UAE WPS, please go through the link
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UAE New Visa Rules 2022: What do the modifications imply for investors, visitors and job seekers?
HLB News Team
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UAE has become one of the world’s most well-liked travel destinations for investors, tourists and entrepreneurs due to its attractive visa procedures. UAE new visa rules introduced mark a significant shift in the UAE’s immigration regulations. The revamped visa system for the United Arab Emirates came into effect, and among its other changes were the extension of tourist visit visas, the expansion of the Golden Visa programme, and streamlined procedures.
The key updates that were implemented are listed below.
A. Visit Visa
The major development for travellers visiting the UAE is that, instead of the existing 30 days, tourist visas will now be granted for 60 days.
Additionally revealed was a five-year, multiple-entry tourist visa that permits travellers to remain in the UAE for up to 90 continuous days, but not exceeding 180 days.
B. Golden Visa
A long-term residency visa known as the “Golden visa” allows foreign nationals to reside, work, and study in the United Arab Emirates for up to ten years.
The minimum wage threshold has been lowered from Dh50,000 to Dh30,000, allowing for the long-term residency of more qualified professionals. The Golden Visa will continue to be legitimate under the new arrangement, regardless of how long the owner stays abroad.
Children of any age may be sponsored by Golden Visa holders. Also, the number of domestic workers they can sponsor is unlimited.
C. Green Visa
The Green visa in the United Arab Emirates is a form of residency visa that entitles the bearer to five years of self-sponsorship. They are not dependent on an employer or an individual from the UAE to sponsor their visa.
For the period of their stay, those with green visas can now sponsor family members (spouses, kids, and first-degree relatives).
Male children can be sponsored by their parents until they become 25 (up from the previous 18). No age restriction applies to sponsors of unmarried daughters.
D. Job Exploration Visa
This visa is granted to those that fall into the first, second, or third skill level, as well as recent graduates from the top 500 colleges globally, according to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization. A bachelor’s degree or its equivalent is the minimal educational qualification. This visa does not need a host or sponsor.
E. Remote Work Visa
The UAE cabinet authorized a new ‘Remote Work Visa’ programme to allow workers from around the globe to work remotely from the UAE in an effort to recruit skilled, talented and experience individuals from various parts of the world. Foreign nationals may enter the UAE on their own initiative and engage in employment according to the rules and regulations of their one-year visa.
Bottom Line
With the new visa reforms, the UAE government has made an effort to raise living standards and make it more enjoyable to live, work, and setup a business. Also, the significant move offers businesses and innovators the chance to work in the UAE’s secure and alluring business climate, with exposure to all required facilities like top-notch infrastructure and connectivity.
Both foreigners travelling to the UAE and those who live and work there would benefit greatly from the new visa regime. Hence, the UAE will be even more accessible to visitors and anyone looking to settle permanently in the emirates.
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Qatari citizens’ social security contributions to private employers in Qatar to commence in January, 2023
HLB Payroll Team
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The Qatari government’s recent adoption of a new law discusses the extension of the private sector social security system and an increase in social security contribution rates. This extended law has been passed to motivate Qataris to work in the private sector and to reduce the adverse effects of early retirement.
Beginning on January 3, 2023, the new law will also be applicable to private sector employers who hire Qatari citizens are required to make contributions to the social security funds of their Qatari citizen employees, whereas presently, the law pertains only to employers in the public sector.
The monthly contribution rates to these funds will rise from 15% to 21% of an employee’s basic income or compensation as from January 3, 2023, with a threshold of QAR 100,000. Employers will be required to provide 14% and employees will be obligated to contribute 7%, with few exclusion. Employers who violate the proposed regulations incur a maximum six-month jail sentence and a QAR 30,000 penalty.
Also, this law is intended to support Qatar’s 2030 National Vision, which aims to ensure that Qatar develops into an advanced society able to maintain its growth and ensure a high living standard for its citizens.
HLB HAMT to assist!
Employers that are impacted by this can get assistance from HLB HAMT by reviewing their mandatory contributions and, if necessary, revising internal procedures.
If you have any queries, please get in touch with our experts or send an email to payroll@hlbhamt.com
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Submission of Audited Financial Statements in Dubai Development Authority (DDA)
Nithin NK, Partner
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As per DDA Private Companies Regulations 2016 circular 421, FZ LLC’s and branch offices are required to prepare and submit their financial Statement and Annual Return each financial year. The requirements of the Audited Financial Statement for an FZLLC are provided in Regulations 63-68 of the Private Companies Regulations of 2016.
This regulation aims to achieve compliance with the applicable Federal and local laws regarding Anti-Money laundering and Combatting Financing of Terrorism, Economic Substance, and tax laws. A branch office may choose to submit the consolidated Audited Financial Statement of its parents, or a stand-alone extract of the financials of the branch office operations only
Companies from the below listed free zones must submit their most current audited financial statements by November 30, 2022.
- Dubai Internet City,
- Dubai Outsource City,
- Dubai Industrial City,
- Dubai Media City,
- Dubai Studio City,
- Dubai Production City,
- Dubai Knowledge Park,
- Dubai International Academic City,
- Dubai Science Park,
- In5,
- Dubai Design District and
- Dubai Quarters.
The financial statement and the duly filled financial Statement Report Summary Sheet should be submitted via the AXS portal.
Maintenance of books of accounts, Preparation of Financial statements, Appointment of auditors (Regulation 63 – 68)
- Every company is required to maintain books of accounts in accordance with the generally accepted accounting principles and the records shall be kept at the registered office of the company.
- Accounting records are to be maintained for at least 8 years.
- Financial Statements are to be prepared for each financial year of the company and it is the duty of the Directors to ensure this.
- The members of a company shall appoint an auditor to audit the financial statements of the company.
The submission of the Audited Financial Statement will be carefully monitored by the Authority and failure to comply may lead to the implementation of Decision No (2) of 2017 at the sole discretion of the Authority.
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