The France-UAE tax treaty is a crucial topic for all French expatriates and entrepreneurs looking to settle or invest in Dubai, particularly when it comes to taxation on gains. Understanding the ins and outs of this agreement is essential to avoid double taxation, optimize your tax situation, and comply with the legal obligations of both countries.
In this article, we will explain what this treaty is, how it works, and the benefits it offers to French residents established in the UAE.
What is the France-UAE Tax Treaty?
The tax treaty between France and the United Arab Emirates was signed to prevent double taxation and promote economic exchanges between the two countries, particularly concerning gains. It establishes rules that apply to income earned by French nationals living or investing in the UAE, and conversely, for Emiratis with interests in France.
In practice, this treaty ensures that French expatriates are not taxed twice on the same income, both in France and in the UAE. This applies to earnings from work, pensions, business profits, gains, and more.
Benefits for French Expatriates in the UAE
One of the main benefits of the tax treaty is the elimination of double taxation. French expatriates living in Dubai can thus enjoy the favorable tax conditions of the UAE without fear of being taxed again in France on capital gains.
Additionally, the treaty clarifies the tax treatment of income such as dividends, interest, capital gains, and inheritance. For entrepreneurs, it offers the possibility to structure their businesses optimally by avoiding double taxation on profits earned abroad.
How to Avoid Double Taxation with this Treaty?
The France-UAE tax treaty relies on two key mechanisms to avoid double taxation: exemption and tax credit on income. The exemption mechanism means that income earned in the UAE is tax-exempt in France, provided you are a tax resident of the UAE. As for tax credit, it allows you to deduct taxes paid in the UAE from those due in France on the same income.
To benefit from these advantages, it is essential to establish your tax residency correctly, notably by proving that you spend more than 183 days a year in the UAE or that your economic interests are based there.
How to Comply with the Tax Treaty?
To take advantage of the benefits offered by the France-UAE tax treaty, it’s important to comply with the tax obligations of both countries, including income tax. This involves correctly declaring your income in each jurisdiction while ensuring that you meet the imposed filing deadlines.
If you are a tax resident in the UAE, you must provide the French tax authorities with the necessary documents proving your non-resident status, such as a tax residency certificate issued by the Emirati authorities. Failing to do so may result in being taxed in France.
Common Mistakes to Avoid as a French Expatriate or Entrepreneur in Dubai
Despite the many benefits of the tax treaty, it is crucial not to make mistakes that could lead to unwanted taxation on taxable income in France. The most common error is failing to prove your tax residency in the UAE or not meeting the conditions set by the treaty.
We strongly recommend contacting us if you want more information about international tax treaties. This will help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure that you comply with all tax obligations in both countries. Visit us at our JLT offices: support@ares-accounting.com.