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Thursday 1 June was not only the go-live date for UAE CT, but also witnessed the release of two eagerly awaited Cabinet Decisions in relation to Qualifying Income.
Cabinet Decision No. 55 of 2023 on Determining Qualifying Income and Ministerial Decision No. 139 of 2023 Regarding Qualifying Activities and Excluded Activities provide some clarity on the nature of a Free Zone Person's income that will be taxed at 0%, as well as the income that would disqualify the Free Zone Person (completely) from claiming the 0% tax rate.
Overall, these decisions seem to deviate from the initial consultation document released in April 2022 and what was anticipated, particularly around income sourced from foreign markets. Moreover, with ‘excluded activities’ targeting income from Natural Persons (save for a couple of specific exemptions) and income from banking, insurance, finance, and leasing activities all classes as 'excluded services’, much of the financial sector (including professional service/consultancy firms) will likely be subject to 9% CT.
It remains to be seen why there has been such a pivot in the FTA’s tax policy – one thought is that perhaps they did not want Free Zones to have an unfair advantage over their mainland competition – hopefully the reasoning will be clarified in a forthcoming announcement.
Our experienced team of tax specialists can advise on the legislation’s impact on new and established businesses, and on how to prepare for and comply with its requirements. We also offer ongoing tax administration and compliance services.
Contact us today to discuss how we can help you.
For UK businesses considering opportunities in Saudi Arabia, the following steps outline the overall process:
1. Business Activity: Determine the appropriate business activity which will aligns with your business and satisfies all undertakings you will engage with in the Kingdom.
2. Local Partnerships: Consider any potential opportunities for collaborations with established local businesses to ease market entry and meet regulatory requirements.
3. Documentation: Gather the required documentation for incorporation in KSA.
4. Company Registration: Work with experts and the relevant governing bodies to assist with the incorporation process, ensuring compliance with local laws and regulations.
5. Other Requirements: Consider any other requirements for establishing in Saudi Arabia such as capital and tax requirements.
Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 represents a significant opportunity for UK businesses to engage with an expanding market with vast potential. As the Kingdom continues to diversify its economy and expand its global influence, UK companies are well-positioned to support and benefit from this transformation. With the right strategy, partnerships, and local support, there are a wealth of possibilities.
By aligning your business with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, the benefits for UK and international businesses looking to Saudi Arabia have never been greater.
At Sanctuary, we specialise in assisting businesses looking to expand into Saudi Arabia. We help navigate the complexities of the Saudi market, ensuring that you have the expertise needed to best prepare for success, so get in touch today.
Our expert team offers comprehensive support across a range of services, from company registration, advisory services, and more. Explore our services to discover how we can help you.
Vision 2030 is a strategic framework designed to diversify Saudi Arabia’s economy, reduce its dependency on oil, and transform the Kingdom into a global business hub.
Key points include economic diversification, social reforms, investment in technology and infrastructure, sustainability, and creating a competitive workforce.
The main focus of the Saudi Arabian Vision 2030 strategy is to build on key economic sectors such as hospitality, travel and tourism and build economic stability and sustainability.
Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative is aimed at diversifying its economy through strategic investments into the non-oil sector and ensuring a more sustainable economic future.
Saudi Arabia has committed over $500 billion to Vision 2030, funding projects that span a variety of sectors, including energy, tourism, and infrastructure.
Yes, with its growing economy, reform initiatives, and investment incentives, Saudi Arabia is a highly attractive destination for foreign businesses seeking growth opportunities.
Key growing industries include renewable energy, tourism, healthcare, technology, and education.
Saudi Arabia permits foreign owned businesses and investment into the Kingdom, which has been elevated by the Vision 2030 initiative. A MISA licence is required for foreign investors or businesses to establish.
As a result of the diversification efforts of Saudi Vision 2030, the non-oil and private sector in the Kingdom have witnessed unprecedented growth in the past few years. The private sector continues to grow each quarter and the non-oil sectors continue to reach record contributions for the Kingdom’s GDP.
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