Services
We offer our clients a wide range of services, ensuring an integrated approach to handling issues that arise in day-to-day operations of companies in the GCC states and assisting in strategic decision-making.
TAX STRUCTURING AND CONSULTING IN THE UAE AND GCC
- Strategic Consulting for Business Expansion into the MENA Market.
- Comparative analysis of tax advantages and disadvantages of locating a business in Gulf countries, including free zones.
- Preparing for the introduction of Corporate tax in the UAE.
- Corporate tax implications, particularly the eligibility for the 0% tax rate.
- Complying with requirements for Qualifying Free Zone Persons.
- Application of Pillar 2 rules for multinational enterprises with a presence in the UAE.
- VAT rules and implications in the UAE and GCC.
- Excise duties and customs duties in the UAE and GCC.
- Tax advice on permanent establishment risks and tax residence in the GCC.
- Applying national GAAR (General Anti-Avoidance Rules) in the UAE.
- Support in obtaining private clarifications from the UAE Federal Tax Authority.
- Tax implications for businesses in the Gulf countries (Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman, Kuwait).
- Application of international tax treaties concluded by the UAE.
Recent Projects
Structuring a manufacturing and trading business for a company entering the UAE market.
We advised a leading tobacco manufacturer and trader on the optimal tax and customs structuring of their regional operations in the UAE. The project included a comparative analysis of corporate tax, excise, customs duties, and VAT implications across various UAE free zones, designated zones, and free zones in Oman. Based on our analysis, we developed a tailored structuring solution that allowed the client to benefit from a 0% corporate tax rate while ensuring full compliance with customs and excise regulations upon entering the UAE market.
Structuring advertising services for VAT efficiency in the UAE.
PGP Tax conducted a comprehensive analysis of UAE legislation to determine the place of supply for digital advertising services, using a comparative review of VAT rules in the EU and GCC to address regulatory uncertainties. We assessed the technical capabilities of social media platforms for data collection and developed practical VAT compliance strategies to avoid unnecessary tax liabilities, optimizing the tax position for businesses engaged in digital advertising.
Tax structuring for a new shipping business in the UAE.
PGP Tax conducted a comprehensive tax feasibility study for a new shipping business, assessing eligibility for the 0% corporate tax rate and favorable VAT treatment. Our team analyzed the business structure and identified tax risks, providing strategic recommendations to ensure tax efficiency and compliance. This work supported the client’s investment decision and helped optimize the future financial sustainability of the business.
Tax structuring for IP-based businesses in UAE free zones.
We advise companies engaged in IP development and commercialization on structuring their operations to qualify for the 0% Corporate Tax rate. Our services include analyzing business models, ownership of intellectual property, and revenue streams to ensure compliance with the Nexus Ratio Test, Adequate Substance requirements, and Transfer Pricing rules. We develop tailored recommendations to localize R&D activities, document development expenditures, and structure IP ownership efficiently, ensuring tax optimization and regulatory compliance.
TRANSFER PRICING SERVICES IN THE UAE
- Analysis of intercompany transactions to ensure compliance with UAE Transfer Pricing regulations and international standards.
- Development and implementation of Transfer Pricing policies tailored to your business model.
- Preparation of Transfer Pricing documentation, including Master File, Local File, and other required reports.
- Benchmarking analysis to determine arm’s length pricing for intercompany transactions.
- Support in preparing and filing Transfer Pricing disclosure forms with UAE tax authorities.
- Advisory on Transfer Pricing implications for businesses operating in Free Zones and mainland UAE.
Recent Projects
Transfer pricing structuring and compliance for a quantitative trading firm.
We provided comprehensive transfer pricing (TP) advisory services to a quantitative trading company with significant intercompany transactions. Our work included reviewing intercompany agreements for arm’s length compliance, developing TP policies, structuring workforce allocations, and preparing for upcoming TP disclosure and documentation requirements. We helped the client mitigate tax risks, ensure compliance with UAE Corporate Tax Law, and maintain eligibility for the 0% Corporate Tax rate for Free Zone Persons.
Transfer pricing compliance support for free zone businesses.
We assist free zone companies in aligning their related-party transactions with the UAE Transfer Pricing regulations to secure the 0% Corporate Tax rate. Our services include identifying controlled transactions, conducting TP assessments, preparing Master and Local Files where required, and advising on connected persons’ disclosures. By establishing a solid TP compliance framework, we help businesses minimize tax risks, avoid penalties, and ensure full readiness for Federal Tax Authority audits.
Transfer pricing support for connected persons compliance.
We assisted a UAE business in identifying connected persons and reviewing transactions subject to disclosure under Corporate Tax regulations. Our work included substantiating the arm’s length nature of compensation, benefits, and non-monetary transactions with connected persons, and advising on the preparation of mandatory disclosures. By ensuring robust documentation and defending the pricing in line with transfer pricing principles, we helped the client mitigate tax risks and achieve full compliance with UAE Corporate Tax requirements.
PRIVATE WEALTH TAX CONSULTING IN THE UAE
- Structuring personal and family ownership of assets in the UAE (real estate, shares, bank accounts).
- Tax residency planning and advisory (including obtaining UAE tax residency certificates).
- Advising on the use of UAE holding companies, family offices, and foundations for asset protection and succession planning.
- Tax implications for investment income (dividends, interest, capital gains) under UAE law.
- Application of UAE double tax treaties to private investments and income.
Recent Projects
Customs and VAT advisory for high-value private assets in the UAE.
We advised private clients on the customs and VAT implications of importing and selling high-value private assets, including yachts and helicopters, in the UAE. Our work involved assessing the applicability of customs duties, evaluating VAT obligations, and identifying conditions for VAT exemption or zero-rating. We developed strategic action plans to minimize tax exposure, ensure regulatory compliance, and optimize the financial outcomes of such transactions.
Structuring family asset ownership through UAE holding companies and foundations.
We assisted a private client in structuring personal and family wealth through the establishment of a UAE holding company and a foundation. Our work included advising on the optimal ownership structure for real estate, securities, and bank accounts, ensuring asset protection, succession planning, and long-term tax efficiency. We developed a strategy balancing flexibility, control, and regulatory compliance, enabling the client to preserve and manage family assets across generations under the favorable UAE legal and tax framework.
TAX COMPLIANCE SUPPORT
- VAT and Corporate Tax registration.
- Filing VAT returns and Corporate Tax returns.
- Assistance in preparing Corporate Tax return schedules (e.g., QFZP, connected persons, related-party transactions).
- Preparing voluntary corrections and disclosures to mitigate penalties.
- Assistance in obtaining UAE Tax Residency Certificates for individuals and companies.
- Advising and supporting business VAT refund applications.
- Compliance with Economic Substance Regulations (ESR).
- Preparing customized tax compliance calendars to manage tax deadlines and reporting obligations.
Recent Projects
ESR compliance support for a UAE holding company.
We assisted a UAE holding company in complying with Economic Substance Regulations (ESR). Our work included analyzing the client’s activities against the relevant substance tests, preparing and submitting ESR notifications and reports, and issuing compliance opinions for third parties. We also developed a practical action plan to mitigate risks of non-compliance, helping the client avoid potential penalties and regulatory issues while ensuring operational stability.
Tax compliance calendar preparation and tax registration for a UAE business.
We supported a UAE business by handling its VAT and Corporate Tax registrations and developing a customized tax compliance calendar. Our services included mapping out all tax filing obligations, payment deadlines, and reporting requirements, tailored to the client’s specific business activities and structure. This proactive approach helped the client manage compliance efficiently, avoid late filings, and minimize exposure to administrative penalties.
VAT refund support and FTA communication management.
We assisted a UAE company in obtaining a VAT refund, guiding them through the full process from application preparation to final approval. Our support included assessing refund eligibility, compiling necessary documentation, and handling communications with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA), including responding to follow-up questions and information requests. Through our involvement, the client successfully recovered input VAT while ensuring full regulatory compliance and minimizing audit risks.
TAX DISPUTE PREVENTION AND RESOLUTION
- Preparing and submitting clarification requests to the UAE Federal Tax Authority (FTA).
- Assisting with Mutual Agreement Procedure (MAP) and Advance Pricing Arrangement (APA) submissions under international tax treaties.
- Conducting tax audits, identifying tax risks, and providing recommendations for risk mitigation.
- Preparing defense files to substantiate the taxpayer’s position and prevent tax risks.
- Drafting and submitting requests for tax assessment review and reconsideration to the FTA.
- Drafting and submitting administrative penalty waiver requests and installment plan requests.
- Representation before tax dispute resolution committees, including the FTA Review Committee.
- Managing communications and negotiations with the UAE Federal Tax Authority (FTA).
- Supporting clients during tax audits, including preparing responses to FTA queries and attending meetings.
- Representation in tax litigation before UAE courts, in collaboration with licensed local advocates.
- Providing strategic advisory on settlement options and risk mitigation during tax disputes.
Recent Projects
Obtaining a private clarification on 0% Corporate Tax eligibility for a UAE free zone investment company.
PGP Tax provided end-to-end support in preparing and submitting a private clarification request to the UAE Federal Tax Authority (FTA) regarding the client's eligibility for the 0% Corporate Tax rate as a Qualifying Free Zone Person (QFZP). Our team developed legal and tax arguments to substantiate the qualification of investment activities, particularly where securities were held for less than 12 months. Through a well-structured approach, we helped the client mitigate tax risks, protect its financial model, and achieve legal certainty under the evolving UAE corporate tax framework.
QFZP compliance audit and preparation of defense documentation.
We conducted a comprehensive audit of a UAE Free Zone company's compliance with the criteria for maintaining Qualifying Free Zone Person (QFZP) status under the UAE Corporate Tax Law. Our review identified compliance gaps and potential risks that could jeopardize the client's eligibility for the 0% Corporate Tax rate. We developed a tailored defense file, including the preparation of necessary supporting documents, explanatory notes, and missing internal records. Additionally, we recommended corrective steps to minimize risks during potential FTA audits.
TAX TRAINING FOR BUSINESSES IN THE UAE
- Tailored training sessions on corporate taxation in the UAE and GCC.
- Practical workshops on UAE VAT, Corporate Tax, and Transfer Pricing compliance.
- Internal training programs to strengthen in-house tax compliance capabilities.
Our team brings not only technical tax expertise but also extensive experience in delivering training. PGP Tax consultants have conducted numerous seminars and workshops for multinational companies, participated in training sessions organized by industry associations, and regularly lecture at top universities and business schools.
This unique combination of practical consulting experience and teaching background allows us to deliver clear, engaging, and highly relevant training programs tailored to the specific needs of businesses in the UAE.
LEGAL ADVISORY
- Legal structuring of business activities in the UAE with consideration of tax implications.
- Advisory on selecting the appropriate legal form and licensing options for business operations.
- Drafting and reviewing contracts and corporate documents with a focus on tax efficiency.
- Legal support in related-party transactions (e.g., loans, services, IP) to ensure compliance with tax and transfer pricing regulations.
- Legal review of cross-border arrangements from both corporate and tax perspectives.
- Structuring shareholder relationships, profit distributions, and capital contributions in a legally and fiscally sound manner.
Recent Projects
Legal structuring and licensing analysis for business setup in the UAE.
We advised a client on selecting the appropriate license and legal structure for a new business in the UAE, taking into account the nature of the activity, regulatory requirements, and associated tax consequences. Our analysis helped the client choose a setup that ensured operational flexibility, minimized tax exposure, and maintained compliance with UAE legal and tax regulations.
Legal advisory on intra-group loan issuance.
We assisted a UAE company in preparing and documenting an intercompany loan to its sister entity. Our support included reviewing the legal basis for the transaction and advising on corporate approvals and regulatory formalities. We also provided guidance on the tax and transfer pricing implications of the loan to ensure compliance and defensibility in case of audit.
Let us be your partner in success
and help you navigate the complex world of taxes. Contact us today to explore how we can help you achieve your business goals.