Yes — Fully Claimable
Can I Claim Trade License Fees as a Business Expense in United Arab Emirates?
Yes — trade license issuance and annual renewal fees are deductible against Corporate Tax. This includes the Free Zone licensing fees, mainland DED fees, and any chamber of commerce subscriptions.
Typical claim: AED 10,000 – AED 50,000 per year
What Federal Tax Authority (FTA) says
Statutory licensing costs incurred to operate the business are ordinary trading expenses deductible against Corporate Tax.
When you can claim
- Annual Free Zone trade license renewal
- Mainland DED license issuance and renewal
- Chamber of Commerce membership
- Activity addition fees
When you cannot claim
- Personal residence visa fees (separate from business operation)
- Fines and penalties for late renewal
Related expenses
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