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Employed With a Side Business? What UAE Tax Rules Apply

Employed With a Side Business? What UAE Tax Rules Apply

October 07, 2026•1 min read

The UAE has no personal income tax on salaries. But many employees also run a side business, and that income follows different rules.

Your salary

Employment income is not subject to Corporate Tax and is not counted in the AED 1 million turnover test.

Your side business

  • If your business turnover exceeds AED 1 million in a calendar year, you must register for Corporate Tax and file an annual return.
  • Separately, if your taxable supplies exceed AED 375,000, you must register for VAT.
  • Both tests are checked independently.

Practical steps

  • Keep your business income and expenses separate from your salary account.
  • Track your business turnover every month.
  • Make sure your activity is properly licensed, as tax registration requires a licence or permit.

If you are close to either threshold, plan ahead so you register on time and avoid penalties.


Questions about your situation? Message us on WhatsApp or book a consultation. Fixed fees agreed upfront.

General information only, not advice for your specific situation.

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A+ Advisory

A+ Advisory is a UAE tax consultancy helping businesses, freelancers and UAE nationals with Corporate Tax, VAT, e-invoicing readiness and the new-home VAT refund, in Arabic and English, for fixed fees agreed upfront. | مكتب استشارات ضريبية في الإمارات يساعد الشركات والمستقلين والمواطنين في ضريبة الشركات وضريبة القيمة المضافة والفوترة الإلكترونية واسترداد ضريبة المسكن، بالعربية والإنجليزية وبرسوم ثابتة.

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A+ Advisory

A PLUS ADVISORY PLUS TAX CONSULTANCY - L.L.C - S.P.C

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