What accounting records must I keep for UAE corporate tax?

Businesses within the scope of UAE corporate tax must keep records and documents that support the information in their tax return and allow the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) to verify their taxable income. In practice this means maintaining proper accounting books and financial statements, along with supporting documents such as invoices, contracts, bank statements, and records of related-party transactions for transfer pricing purposes. Records generally must be retained for a set number of years after the end of the relevant tax period so the FTA can audit them within its assessment window. Some taxable persons — for example, certain free zone companies and businesses above a revenue level — are required to prepare and, in some cases, have audited financial statements. Keeping accurate records is also what enables you to claim deductions, carry forward tax losses, and support exemptions. Failing to maintain required records can lead to administrative penalties. Because the exact retention period and audit requirements are set by the corporate tax law and FTA decisions, confirm the current rules with the FTA or a qualified UAE tax adviser. Verified UAE legal professionals are listed on LEXAI.