.The UAE Federal Tax Authority (FTA) and the Ministry of Finance (MoF) has issued a set of detailed transfer pricing guidelines, providing businesses with clarity on how to determine arm’s length prices for their cross-border transactions. In this blog, we will explore the key highlights of these regulatory changes, shedding light on their implications for multinational corporations in the UAE.

Guide to New Transfer Pricing Requirements for Businesses

1. Comprehensive Transfer Pricing Guidelines by the FTA

These guidelines enable businesses to align their transfer pricing practices with international standards.The decision uses terms defined in the Corporate Tax Law unless specified differently. For instance, “Taxable Person” refers to businesses subject to corporate tax. 

2. Core Elements of the FTA Guidelines

Documentation Requirements
The FTA guidelines outline extensive documentation requirements, including a master file, local file, and country-by-country report. Compliance with these requirements is crucial for businesses. 

• If your business is part of a “Multinational Enterprises Group” with a total group revenue of AED 3.15 billion or more during the relevant tax period, you need to maintain both a master file and a local file.
• If your business’s revenue for the tax period is AED 200 million or more, you need to maintain both files.

Comparability Analysis

Businesses are now required to conduct a thorough comparability analysis which involves assessing the characteristics of the controlled transactions and identifying comparables.

Advance Pricing Agreements (APAs)

The FTA encourages businesses to seek APAs, providing certainty and reducing the risk of transfer pricing disputes. This is a valuable strategy for businesses to enhance their tax compliance efforts.

3. Ministry of Finance’s Decision on Documentation Requirements

The MoF  has issued a decision that complements the FTA guidelines. It outlines specific documentation requirements for corporate tax purposes, further emphasizing the need for accurate transfer pricing documentation.

Transfer Pricing Documentation Deadline: Businesses in the UAE are now required to prepare transfer pricing documentation. They must submit this documentation to the Ministry of Finance within a specified time frame to ensure transparency and compliance with tax regulations.

Penalties for Non-Compliance: Non-compliance with the documentation requirements can result in penalties.  Making it imperative for businesses to meet their obligations and avoid potential financial repercussions.

4. Implications for Businesses

Enhanced Compliance: These guidelines and requirements are designed to enhance transfer pricing compliance in the UAE, aligning the country with global best practices. Businesses need to allocate resources & expertise to meet these new obligations effectively.

Minimizing Risk: Compliance with the guidelines & documentation requirements reduces the risk of transfer pricing disputes, audits, and potential financial penalties. It is in the best interest of businesses to proactively manage their transfer pricing practices.

Competitive Advantage: Proactive compliance can provide businesses with a competitive advantage, as they demonstrate a commitment to adhering to international tax standards, enhancing their reputation in the business community.

To summarize, the UAE’s new transfer pricing guidelines and documentation requirements mark a significant step in the country’s commitment to international tax standards and transparency. Businesses operating in the UAE should promptly assess their transfer pricing practices, ensuring compliance with these guidelines. Seek expert advice from our financial advisors to help navigate the new transfer pricing requirements with confidence.