H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Federal Tax Authority (FTA), chaired a board meeting in Dubai today to review the Authority’s first-quarter 2025 performance and outline strategic plans for the months ahead.
Held at the FTA headquarters, the meeting highlighted the Authority’s progress in strengthening the UAE’s tax system. Sheikh Maktoum was briefed on key achievements, including the implementation of core corporate tax services and efforts to boost voluntary compliance, in line with national goals for financial sustainability and global competitiveness.
The meeting also focused on enhancing the FTA’s legislative and technical infrastructure to streamline tax processes and ensure high-quality customer service. Sheikh Maktoum underscored the need for sustainable development of the tax system, aligned with UAE leadership directives.
Significant milestones included a surge in corporate tax registrations, which rose to 537,340, alongside 510,940 VAT and 1,756 excise tax registrants. The number of registered tax agents reached 676 during the first quarter.
In line with customer-centric initiatives, the FTA approved 1,656 refund requests from Emirati citizens for taxes paid on new home construction, totalling AED148 million.
The board also reviewed upgrades to the EmaraTax platform, part of a broader digital transformation aimed at improving service delivery and easing compliance. The Authority’s outreach included 56 corporate tax awareness events and the release of new publications and guidelines to support businesses through the tax journey.
Looking ahead, the FTA plans to continue refining tax policy and operational procedures, reinforcing its commitment to governance, transparency, and a future-ready tax ecosystem.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
