UAE Free Zone Compliance Calendar 2026 — Key Deadlines Every Company Owner Must Know
Missing UAE compliance deadlines results in fines, visa issues, and potential company cancellation. This calendar covers the key annual compliance deadlines for UAE free zone companies in 2026.
In this guide:
2026 UAE Free Zone Compliance Calendar
| Deadline | Requirement | Who It Applies To |
|---|---|---|
| Throughout year | VAT return filing (quarterly) — 28th of month after quarter end | VAT-registered companies |
| Before licence expiry | Trade licence renewal (start 60-90 days early) | All free zone companies |
| Before visa expiry | UAE Investor Visa renewal (start 30-60 days early) | Visa holders |
| 9 months after FY end | Corporate Tax return filing and payment | All UAE CT-registered companies |
| 6 months after FY end | ESR notification (if conducting Relevant Activity) | Companies with Relevant Activities |
| 12 months after FY end | ESR report filing | Companies with Relevant Activities |
| Within 15 days | UBO register update (if UBO changes) | All UAE companies |
| Ongoing | Maintain valid health insurance for all visa holders | All UAE residents sponsored by company |
Corporate Tax Calendar (Calendar Year Companies)
| Tax Year End | CT Return Deadline |
|---|---|
| 31 December 2024 | 30 September 2025 |
| 31 December 2025 | 30 September 2026 |
| 31 December 2026 | 30 September 2027 |
Useful UAE Compliance Portals
- EmaraTax (emaratax.ae) — UAE Corporate Tax and VAT filing
- MOF ESR portal (mof.gov.ae) — Economic Substance Regulation
- ICA/GDRFA — Visa renewal and status
- MOHRE Tasheel — Employment contracts and labour compliance