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The UAE Issues Amendments to Its Tax Procedures Law

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has recently introduced significant amendments to the Federal Tax Procedures Law, aiming to simplify compliance, increase transparency, and strengthen the overall tax administration framework.

Key Highlights of the Amendments

What This Means for Businesses

For UAE-based companies, these updates mean:

  • Greater predictability in handling refunds
  • Streamlined audit and appeal processes
  • Enhanced clarity in legal obligations
  • Reduced compliance risks through digital procedures
1. Refund Deadlines Clarified

Businesses that have overpaid tax now have a five-year window—starting from the end of the relevant tax period—to:

  • Submit a refund request
  • Use the credit to offset other tax liabilities

This timeframe provides more structure and certainty for taxpayers.

2. Improved Transparency and Accountability

The amendments introduce clearer procedures for tax assessments and audits, ensuring transparent steps during reviews and appeals.

3. Enhanced Dispute Resolution Process

Taxpayers now have a more organized process for submitting objections and appeals against FTA decisions, with well-defined timelines for each stage.

4. Digital Transformation of Tax Services

The amendments promote paperless processes and online submission of tax-related applications, reducing delays and manual errors.

The UAE continues to strengthen its position as a transparent and business-friendly jurisdiction by refining its tax framework. These updates reflect the country’s commitment to supporting businesses while maintaining effective tax governance.

–– THE TIMES OF INDIA   Updated: Dec 03, 2025, 10:55 IST

UAE Tax Shake-Up: Who Wins, Who Pays?

Dubai: UAE Updates Tax Procedures Law

The UAE has introduced a fresh round of updates to its Tax Procedures Law, aimed at tightening compliance, clarifying refund timelines, and enhancing transparency for both taxpayers and the Federal Tax Authority (FTA).

Under Federal Decree-Law No. 17 of 2025, these amendments update the existing Tax Procedures Law (Federal Decree-Law No. 28 of 2022) and will officially take effect on January 1, 2026.

Why the New Rules Matter

The goal is simple: make the tax system clearer, fairer, and more predictable for all. The changes strengthen how refunds, audits, and dispute resolutions are handled — reducing ambiguity and setting well-defined timelines for everyone involved.

1. Refund Deadlines Clarified

A new five-year window allows businesses to request refunds or offset extra tax paid. Taxpayers can still apply within the last 90 days or after expiry in special cases — ensuring legitimate claims aren’t lost.

2. Expanded Audit Rules

The FTA can now audit or assess even after the standard period ends — only in defined cases, like when a refund is filed near the limitation deadline, keeping compliance checks balanced and fair.

3. Binding Directions for Consistency

The FTA can now issue binding directions to interpret tax laws clearly. This ensures consistent treatment of similar cases, reducing confusion for businesses.

4. Relief for Older Refunds

Businesses with expired refund windows before Jan 1, 2026 get a fresh one-year extension to reapply. Pending refunds also get up to two years for voluntary corrections.

5. Applies to All UAE Taxes

Updates cover Corporate Tax, VAT, and Excise Tax — impacting every business that interacts with the FTA.

What Taxpayers Gain
  • ✅ Defined refund timelines
  • ✅ Clearer audit and appeal rules
  • ✅ Option to fix past tax issues
  • ✅ Consistency in interpretation

These changes strengthen the UAE’s tax framework — making it more transparent, reliable, and globally aligned. The updated law supports sustainable business growth while ensuring fairness and accountability.

–– Source GULF NEWS   Last updated: November 30, 2025 | 14:19

UAE Cyber Threats: Resilience Over Compliance

A recent study reveals that 94% of UAE organisations have suffered major cyberattacks, with 59% hit in the past year alone. The impact is severe: 96% reported revenue loss, and 69% lost customers. “Downtime is not just an IT issue; it is a trust issue,” says Johnny Karam, Cohesity MD for Emerging Regions.

Compliance vs. resilience

While the UAE has strong data protection laws, compliance alone isn’t enough. Only 44% of leaders feel confident in their resilience strategies, even as AI adoption accelerates faster than risk readiness. Globally, just 6% of organisations have full resilience maturity.

Cohesity stresses that recovery speed is now the benchmark for cyber resilience. Embedding resilience—through automated recovery, Zero Trust data protection, and AI with guardrails—can safeguard operations, data integrity, and customer trust.

Resilient organisations gain a competitive advantage, reducing downtime, protecting reputation, and ensuring growth in a world defined by constant AI-driven disruption.

–– Source Khaleej Times   Published: Wed 19 Nov 2025, 10:38 PM

Google and Meta Delay Red Sea Subsea Cable Projects

Sea Cable

Dubai: Most of the world’s internet moves through thin fibre-optic cables lying on the seabed. When something disrupts those routes, speeds drop — even in highly connected countries like the UAE.

That’s why the latest Bloomberg report on Google and Meta delaying their Red Sea subsea cable projects has raised concerns. The setbacks come after earlier interruptions in the same region left users across the Middle East dealing with slower-than-usual connections.

–– GULF NEWS   Last updated: November 23, 2025 | 05:05

UAE’s Women Leaders See AI as a Catalyst for Gender Equality

Women leaders in the UAE are embracing artificial intelligence (AI) as a key force for advancing gender equality in the tech sector. A new Cloudera survey revealed that 91% of female IT leaders believe gender equality in AI leadership will improve within the next five years — showing optimism about AI’s power to create equal opportunities.

The report found that 88% of respondents see AI as essential to promoting gender balance, while many also believe women will play a central role in shaping future AI strategies and governance. However, challenges persist — nearly 46% worry about the lack of women in senior roles, and 84% say organisations must offer more targeted AI training for women.

Eman Gammoh, Head of AI at Arab Bank, said women are now key drivers shaping AI strategy and governance. Manasi Vartek, Cloudera’s Chief AI Architect, added that building trusted AI requires both “a unified data foundation and targeted training for women in leadership.”

–– Source Khaleej Times   Published: Sun 23 Nov 2025, 6:41 PM

Dubai Unveils World’s First AI-Powered Payment System

Dubai has launched Agent Pay, the world’s first AI-powered payment system, developed by Mastercard and Majid Al Futtaim. Demonstrated at the Dubai Future Forum, the AI assistant booked movie tickets by finding the best seats, showtimes, and locations — and completed the payment instantly, without any website or manual input.

–– Source Khaleej Times   Published: Tue 18 Nov 2025, 12:40 PM

UAE Minister Omar Al Olama and Mastercard CEO Michael Miebach praised the innovation, calling it a step toward the future of seamless, secure transactions. Al Olama highlighted the UAE’s “why not” mindset that drives innovation, while Miebach stressed the importance of balancing AI progress with safety and trust.

How to Choose the Best ERP for Construction Companies in the UAE

Construction companies in the UAE are embracing digital transformation faster than ever. But with so many software options in the market, the question remains — how do you choose the best ERP for construction companies in the UAE?

The ideal ERP should align with your business goals: reducing manual workload, controlling costs, and improving decision-making. While traditional ERPs offer financial and inventory modules, construction projects demand more — BOQ automation, tender comparison, and real-time progress tracking.

That's where ziSprink stands out as the most advanced AI-powered ERP designed specifically for UAE construction companies. It goes beyond standard ERP functions by integrating Artificial Intelligence into every process.

Here's what to look for when choosing your ERP:

  1. AI-driven automation: Manual BOQ formation can take days. ziSprink's AI engine does it in minutes.
  2. Cloud access: Construction teams often work across multiple sites. ziSprink's cloud architecture ensures secure, real-time access from anywhere in the UAE.
  3. Localisation: The UAE has unique project approval, VAT, and compliance rules — ziSprink's system is region-ready and designed for GCC contractors.
  4. Ease of integration: Your ERP should easily connect with accounting, HR, and procurement systems.

By implementing ziSprink, UAE contractors can save hundreds of man-hours during tendering and project setup. It reduces repetitive tasks, improves collaboration, and ensures cost transparency across all project phases.

Ultimately, the best ERP for construction companies in the UAE isn't just about digitalisation — it's about transformation. ziSprink's intelligent ERP empowers companies to move from reactive management to proactive control, helping them stay competitive in one of the most advanced construction markets in the world.

— ziSprink – built for UAE construction excellence

GITEX 2025: UAE to Deploy Smart Cars to Detect Visa Violators

At GITEX 2025, the UAE unveiled a groundbreaking innovation — smart inspection cars designed to identify visa violators in real time.

Developed by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP), these electric vehicles are equipped with AI-powered cameras, facial recognition, and direct database access. They can scan surroundings, detect individuals violating residency laws, and instantly alert authorities.

Each car features six high-resolution cameras, real-time analytics, and an operator interface for on-the-spot decision-making — all while being fully electric and eco-friendly.

Why It Matters:
  • Faster and smarter enforcement
  • Enhanced national security and mobility
  • AI-driven governance

However, experts also raise concerns about privacy, data security, and accountability — reminding us that innovation must always balance with responsibility.

In short: UAE’s smart cars mark a bold step toward intelligent law enforcement — merging AI, mobility, and public safety into one futuristic system.

–– Source Khaleej Times   Published: Mon 13 Oct 2025, 1:05 PM

The Truth Behind ‘AI’ in Today’s Software

Reality vs. Marketing

Today, almost every software product claims to be “AI-powered.” From CRMs to accounting tools, the term has become a marketing buzzword rather than a genuine technological advantage. In most cases, these products do not have AI making autonomous decisions; instead, they rely on pre-defined rules or simple automation labeled as “AI.”

Example: Many email marketing platforms claim to use AI to “optimize campaigns.” In reality, they often just suggest send times or subject lines based on past user behavior, without any real understanding or adaptive learning. The AI is not making independent decisions; it’s just pattern recognition wrapped in a fancy label.
Why this matter: Businesses may pay a premium for “AI-enabled” software without gaining any real intelligence or decision-making support. Marketing jargon is winning over real functionality.
What real AI Integration should include:
  1. Data-driven decision-making: AI should analyze historical and real-time data to suggest or execute optimal actions, not just rules you set!
  2. Learning over time: Systems should adapt and improve based on outcomes, not just repeat pre-set rules. AI adapts as it gets more data!
  3. Contextual understanding: AI should consider multiple factors, trends, and exceptions when providing recommendations. It’s variable!
  4. Transparency: Users should understand why the AI makes specific suggestions or decisions.

Minimal AI features every “AI-powered” software should have:

  • Predictive analytics (e.g., forecasting sales trends)
  • Automated decision support (e.g., recommending actions based on data patterns)
  • Continuous learning (system improves with more usage and feedback)
  • Clear explain ability (users can see the logic behind AI suggestions)

True AI adds value by making smarter decisions and improving with time. If your “AI powered” tool doesn’t do that, it’s not AI—it’s marketing. Its only a “marketing jargon” then.

CEO

— Authored by Mohammad Mahfuz Ul Alam, CEO, ziSprink IT Solutions

UAE E-Invoicing: Get Ready for 2026

UAE E-invoicing: Businesses must start now to be ready for mid-2026 launch Switch to e-invoicing is a landmark move - UAE businesses can't afford to lag Soon, businesses in the UAE will have to start preparing for a landmark change in how they are billing transactions. The UAE will rollout the switch to full e-invoicing only from July 2026 – but businesses need to sort their internal processes and not leave everything to the last minute, say industry sources. Now, there are already companies, big and niche, that use e-invoicing across their operations, but for a significant number of UAE companies, much of the process still retains a paper element. With full e-invoicing, the UAE is intent on taking all transactions between a buyer and a supplier online. Because there is the recent history of how many of these businesses fared registering for UAE’s corporate tax program. It was only after repeated directives and the imposition – and later waiver – of administrative fines that the process picked up speed, especially among the SME community.
–– Last updated: June 28, 2025 | 09:54

UAE Sugar Tax on Drinks Starts January 2026

UAE’s Ministry of Finance on Monday said that it has completed a set of proposed legislative amendments, including setting the various levels of a tiered volumetric model based on sugar content or other sweeteners for sweetened beverages. The ministry announced that the updated policy will come into effect at the national level from January 1, 2026. The new regulations will also cover a clear mechanism that enables taxable persons who have imported or produced goods subject to a 50 per cent excise tax prior to the amendments coming into effect, and whose tax liability decreased as a result of these amendments (before selling the goods for which tax was previously paid), to deduct part of the previously paid tax. The ministry elaborated that this initiative is part of GCC countries' decision to adopt a tiered volumetric model for excise tax on sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs). The amendments aim to establish a comprehensive legal and regulatory foundation that ensures the smooth implementation of the updated policy at the national level, with effect from 1 January 2026. It added that the proposed amendments will "foster a competitive tax environment".
–– Published: Mon 6 Oct 2025, 2:07 PM

👉 How Industry-Specific ERP Transforms Operations in Logistics Companies ?

The logistics industry thrives on precision, speed, and efficiency. A small miscalculation can lead to delivery delays, unhappy customers, and increased costs. That is why many logistics companies are turning to industry-specific ERP systems to streamline their operations. At ziSprink, we design ERP solutions tailored to the needs of logistics and supply chain businesses across the UAE and GCC.

The first advantage is real-time visibility. With ERP, companies can track vehicles, shipments, warehouses, and supplier activities in one place. Managers no longer rely on fragmented spreadsheets or manual updates; instead, they access dashboards that reflect live data. This empowers proactive decision-making and reduces the risk of bottlenecks.

Another benefit is automation and integration. Instead of juggling multiple software tools, ERP brings accounting, procurement, inventory, and invoicing under one system. When purchase orders, receipts, and billing flow seamlessly, errors decline and reconciliation becomes faster.

Internal controls and role-based access also matter in logistics. With multiple stakeholders—drivers, warehouse teams, dispatchers, and finance officers—businesses must control who can view or approve what. ERP ensures accountability through permissions and audit trails.

Moreover, ERP systems are built for scalability. A courier company in Ajman might focus on local operations, while a freight company in Dubai may manage cross-border trade. An ERP system like ziSprink adapts to both, adding features such as fleet maintenance, customs documentation, or route optimization as needed.

Finally, there is the question of return on investment. While the initial deployment requires planning and investment, the long-term gains are significant: reduced losses, faster deliveries, lower operational costs, and happier customers. When logistics companies have technology that scales with them, they gain a competitive edge.

Conclusion: Industry-specific ERP is no longer just an efficiency tool; it is a strategic driver of growth for logistics companies. With ziSprink’s tailored ERP solutions, logistics firms can gain full visibility, improve accountability, and deliver services that exceed customer expectations.

👉 Top 5 Benefits of Cloud-Based ERP for Retail & Super Shop Businesses

Retail is one of the most competitive industries in the UAE and GCC. Super shops, convenience stores, and multi-branch retailers must manage fluctuating inventory, customer expectations, and supplier relationships. Cloud-based ERP offers the perfect solution for these challenges.

The first major benefit is anywhere accessibility. Cloud ERP allows business owners and managers to log in from laptops, tablets, or smartphones—whether in the store, at home, or traveling. For businesses with multiple branches, this ensures everyone operates on the same data in real time.

Second is real-time inventory control. Retailers often struggle with stockouts or overstocking. Cloud ERP keeps a centralized record of what’s in stock across branches and warehouses. If one outlet runs low on a product, the system can trigger stock transfers or reorders immediately, avoiding lost sales.

Third is integration between POS and accounting. With ERP, sales data flows automatically into financial ledgers. This removes manual entry errors, speeds up month-end closing, and gives accurate insights into profit margins and expenses.

Fourth, cloud systems offer scalability without heavy infrastructure costs. Traditional ERP required expensive servers and IT staff. Cloud ERP eliminates most of that, while ensuring updates, backups, and security patches are handled by the provider.

Fifth, and perhaps most important, is enhanced customer experience. By having unified pricing, promotions, and loyalty programs across all outlets, customers receive a consistent shopping experience. Staff can also quickly answer queries about stock availability, further improving service quality.

One super shop client in Ras Al Khaimah, for instance, reduced stock wastage significantly after adopting ziSprink ERP. By having live visibility into inventory and expiry dates, they could rotate stock smarter and avoid losses.

Conclusion: Cloud-based ERP is a game-changer for retailers. It provides cost savings, operational efficiency, and superior customer service. With ziSprink’s expertise in retail ERP, businesses in the UAE and GCC can grow with confidence.

👉 Why Security & Internal Controls are Crucial in Modern ERP Systems

As more businesses digitize, ERP systems are becoming the backbone of operations. But with this centralization comes risk. ERP houses financial records, HR data, supplier contracts, and customer information—all highly sensitive. Without robust security and internal controls, businesses expose themselves to fraud, data breaches, and regulatory violations.

The first pillar of ERP security is role-based access. Not every employee should have full system access. For example, warehouse staff may need inventory access but not payroll data. Finance managers may handle accounts but not HR files. ERP systems like ziSprink enforce permissions at every level, ensuring sensitive data is restricted.

Second is system hardening against cyber threats. Attackers often target ERP systems through SQL injection, phishing, or malware. Well-built ERP software has safeguards like input validation, intrusion monitoring, and frequent security patches.

Third is audit trails. Every action—from approving a purchase order to editing a supplier’s information—should be logged with time, user, and details. This is critical for internal audits, dispute resolution, and regulatory compliance.

Fourth, data backups and disaster recovery. Whether caused by hardware failure, cyberattacks, or human error, data loss can cripple a business. Cloud-enabled ERP systems maintain regular backups and recovery options to restore business continuity quickly.

Internal controls also prevent fraud and errors. For instance, requiring multiple approvals for large payments, cross-checking supplier invoices against purchase orders, or enforcing segregation of duties ensures transparency and accountability.

Conclusion: In today’s business climate, ERP security is non-negotiable. It is not only about preventing cybercrime but also about building trust with customers and partners. ziSprink ERP solutions are built with multiple layers of security and internal control, ensuring businesses in the UAE and GCC can operate safely and confidently.

👉 How ERP Helps Construction Companies Streamline Projects

Construction projects are complex undertakings involving contractors, materials, budgets, and strict deadlines. Without proper systems, managers face cost overruns, missed deadlines, and compliance issues. ERP systems tailored for construction simplify this complexity.

Project planning and scheduling are the first big wins. ERP allows managers to assign tasks, track milestones, and allocate resources effectively. Delays can be identified early, and corrective action taken before costs spiral.

Next is cost control. Materials and labor are the largest expense categories in construction. ERP systems track these costs in real time, giving visibility into budget vs. actual spending. Managers can compare progress with expenses and ensure profitability is maintained.

Inventory and equipment management is another area of impact. Tools, heavy machinery, and materials can easily go missing or remain underutilized. ERP records what is in stock, what is at the site, and when maintenance or replacements are needed.

ERP also simplifies procurement and supplier management. Instead of manually tracking supplier quotes, purchase orders, and invoices, the system automates approvals and ensures timely payments. This strengthens supplier relationships while keeping cash flow under control.

Finally, ERP offers dashboards and reporting for stakeholders. Whether it is a project owner, site manager, or investor, customized reports provide transparency into project health.

Conclusion: ERP ensures construction companies move from firefighting to forward planning. With ziSprink’s ERP for construction, firms in the UAE and GCC can streamline operations, control costs, and deliver projects on time and within budget.

👉 Choosing the Right ERP Modules for Your Growing Business

ERP systems are powerful, but not every company needs all modules at once. Choosing wisely ensures you get value for money and smooth adoption.

Start by identifying your pain points. If inventory mistakes are common, begin with stock management. If accounting takes too long, prioritize the finance module. Tailoring ERP to your immediate needs keeps costs under control.

Next, prioritize scalability. Businesses evolve—today you may only need accounting and HR, but tomorrow you may need CRM, payroll, or supply chain management. ERP like ziSprink grows with you, allowing you to add modules later without re-engineering the system.

Another factor is industry specificity. A retail company will need POS integration, while a construction firm requires project tracking. Choosing ERP with customizable modules ensures relevance.

Ease of use and training are also crucial. Even the most advanced module is useless if employees struggle with it. Look for ERP with intuitive interfaces and strong vendor training support.

Lastly, consider support and deployment models. Will your ERP be on-premise, cloud, or hybrid? Does your vendor offer local support in the UAE or GCC? These practical considerations often determine success.

Conclusion: ERP adoption is a journey, not a one-time purchase. By selecting the right modules, businesses can maximize ROI and ensure the system supports growth at every stage.

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