DAFZA companies must complete their financial audits by March 31, 2026. With stricter regulations and the UAE Corporate Tax system, having accurate and audited financial statements is more important than ever.
For entities registered in Dubai Airport Freezone Authority (DAFZA), audited financial statements are generally required to be submitted within 90 days from the financial year-end, subject to regulations and license conditions.
Why Audited Financial Statements Are Essential
Federal Decree-Law No. 47 of 2022 requires Free Zone entities to maintain proper accounting records and prepare financial statements in accordance with approved standards such as IFRS.
All Free Zone companies must maintain audited financial statements, regardless of revenue, to:
- Demonstrate compliance with Corporate Tax regulations
- Support the calculation of Qualifying Income vs. Taxable Income
- Maintain eligibility for the 0% Corporate Tax rate on qualifying income
- Ensure transparency for regulators and stakeholders
- Declare Ultimate Beneficial Ownership (UBO)
DAFZA and certain other Free Zones require companies to comply with their licensing rules regarding audited financial statements. Businesses should verify the audit requirements for their specific Free Zone authority.
Compliance with Corporate Tax & Transfer Pricing
Free Zone companies may also need to comply with transfer pricing rules and maintain proper documentation under Federal Decree-Law No. 47 of 2022.
Failing to maintain accurate records or provide documents when requested may result in administrative penalties, including those in Cabinet Decision No. 75 of 2023.
Key Compliance Timeline
Compliance Requirement Deadline Financial
Year- End Period 1 January 2025 – 31 December 2025
Preparation for Audit & Appointing an Auditor January – March 2026
Submission of Audited Financials to DAFZA3 1 March 2026
Missing deadlines can lead to:
- Portal sanctions
- Penalties for late filing
- Issues with license renewals
- Reputational risk for repeated violations
Starting your audit early ensures enough time to correct issues, verify your documents, and fully comply with DAFZA regulations and Corporate Tax requirements.
Trust Forever Rich for Your Audit & Compliance
Forever Rich Accounting & Tax Services helps Free Zone businesses meet all regulatory and Corporate Tax compliance requirements.
Our services include:
- DAFZA Audit & Financial Statement Preparation
- Corporate Tax Compliance Support
- IFRS-Compliant Financial Reporting
- Regulatory Advisory for Free Zone Entities
📅 Schedule your free audit consultation today to stay compliant, avoid penalties, and ensure a smooth audit process before March 31, 2026.
