Tax & Accounting for Real Estate in the UAE

Safeway provides tax and accounting support tailored to real estate developers, brokers and landlords in the UAE. Real estate is one of the most VAT-sensitive sectors in the UAE. The first supply of new residential property is zero-rated, later residential supplies are exempt, commercial property is standard-rated at 5%, and bare land is exempt — so the treatment turns on the exact nature of each transaction. As an FTA-approved tax agent in Ajman, we handle Corporate Tax, VAT and accounting for Real Estate businesses across all emirates.

Tax and accounting issues specific to Real Estate

• VAT treatment of residential, commercial and mixed-use property
• Input VAT recovery on development costs
• Corporate Tax on rental and development income
• Owners' associations and management fees
• Record keeping for the 15-year real estate retention rule

How Safeway helps

• Corporate Tax registration, planning and return filing
• VAT registration, correct treatment and quarterly returns
• Sector-appropriate bookkeeping and IFRS financial statements
• Health checks and voluntary disclosures where needed

Contact us for a tax and accounting review tailored to your Real Estate business.

Frequently asked questions

How is VAT handled for Real Estate businesses in the UAE?

Real estate is one of the most VAT-sensitive sectors in the UAE. The first supply of new residential property is zero-rated, later residential supplies are exempt, commercial property is standard-rated at 5%, and bare land is exempt — so the treatment turns on the exact nature of each transaction.

Do Real Estate businesses pay Corporate Tax?

Yes. Corporate Tax applies at 9% on taxable income above AED 375,000, with 0% below it, and Small Business Relief may be available for revenue up to AED 3 million. We help you apply the right position.

Can Safeway handle both VAT and accounting for my business?

Yes. We provide bookkeeping, financial statements, VAT and Corporate Tax as one joined-up service, so the numbers reconcile across your returns.

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