What We'll Cover

American Expats in United Arab Emirates

United Arab Emirates is a top destination for Americans in UAE, offering a tax-free personal income environment and a luxurious lifestyle. However, navigating U.S. tax obligations while abroad is a common challenge for American expats in UAE. This guide provides clear, actionable advice for managing your U.S. tax obligations in 2026 while living in UAE.

From filing deadlines to visa options, we will cover the essential topics that every American living in UAE needs to understand. Proper planning can save you thousands and ensure you remain compliant with U.S. requirements.

UAE & U.S. Tax Timeline: Critical Dates for Dual Filers

Managing U.S. tax obligations while residing in UAE requires careful attention to the U.S. tax calendar, as UAE imposes no personal income tax. Understanding these timelines is crucial for maintaining compliance and avoiding penalties in the U.S.

Key Timeline Overview:

January 1: U.S. tax year begins (calendar year basis)
March 15: U.S. partnership and S-corporation filing deadline
April 15: U.S. tax payment deadline (regardless of filing extension)
June 15: Automatic U.S. filing extension for expats with foreign address
June 30: FBAR filing deadline (FinCEN Form 114)
September 15: Extended partnership and S-corporation deadline
October 15: Final U.S. tax filing deadline with extension
December 31: Tax year ends

The UAE has no personal income tax system, so there are no withholding or advance payment requirements for individuals. However, businesses may need to consider UAE corporate tax deadlines if applicable. Self-employed individuals and those with U.S. business interests must manage U.S. quarterly estimated payments on March 15, June 15, September 15, and January 15 (next year), creating a cycle of tax obligations that must be carefully managed.

Strategic Payment Planning to Avoid U.S. Penalties

The most critical aspect of U.S. tax compliance for expats in UAE is understanding that the June 15 automatic extension applies only to filing, not to payment obligations. This distinction has significant financial implications that require proactive planning to avoid unnecessary interest and penalties.

Critical Payment Strategy: Even though your Form 1040 isn't due until June 15 (or October 15 with Form 4868), any tax owed must be paid by April 15 to avoid interest charges. The IRS charges interest from April 15 regardless of filing extensions.

To effectively manage this payment timing challenge, American expats in UAE should implement a multi-pronged approach. First, conduct a preliminary tax calculation by early March using your UAE income documentation and estimated U.S. tax obligations. This projection doesn't need to be perfect but should provide a reasonable estimate of your U.S. tax liability. Consider working with a tax professional familiar with expat issues to ensure accuracy.

Second, establish a tax reserve account specifically for U.S. obligations. Since UAE has no income tax withholding, you'll need to set aside funds for U.S. payments. Many expats find it helpful to set aside funds monthly, treating U.S. tax reserves as a fixed expense in their budget. This approach prevents the April 15 payment deadline from creating a cash flow crisis.

Third, leverage safe harbor provisions to minimize penalties. If you're unable to calculate your exact tax liability by April 15, you can avoid penalties by paying either 100% of your prior year's tax liability (110% if your prior year AGI exceeded $150,000) or 90% of the current year's tax. This safe harbor payment strategy provides protection while you finalize your actual tax calculations.

For those with irregular income or significant UAE-source income, consider making quarterly estimated tax payments to the IRS. These payments are due April 15, June 15, September 15, and January 15, and help spread the tax burden throughout the year rather than facing a large payment in April.

Currency fluctuations between the dirham and dollar add another layer of complexity to payment planning. Since you'll likely earn income in dirhams but owe taxes in dollars, exchange rate movements can significantly impact your tax liability. Consider using the yearly average exchange rate for income reporting (as permitted by the IRS) to smooth out volatility, and monitor exchange rates when planning your April payment to optimize the conversion timing.

UAE vs. U.S. Tax Systems: Direct Comparison

Understanding the fundamental differences between UAE and U.S. tax systems is essential for effective tax planning as an American expat. While the U.S. taxes worldwide income for citizens, UAE has no personal income tax, creating unique planning opportunities.

Tax Feature	UAE	United States
Tax Year	Calendar year for corporate tax	Calendar year (with fiscal year option for businesses)
Taxation Basis	No personal income tax; territorial for corporate	Citizenship-based (worldwide income for citizens)
Income Tax Rates	0% for personal; 9% corporate above AED 375,000	10% - 37% (federal) + 0% - 13.3% (state)
Capital Gains Tax	0% for personal	0% - 20% (long-term) / Ordinary rates (short-term)
Social Security	None for expats; end-of-service gratuity	FICA: 7.65% employee + 7.65% employer
Wealth Tax	None	None at federal level
Inheritance Tax	None	18% - 40% above $13.61 million (2024)
VAT/Sales Tax	5% standard VAT rate	0% - 10% state/local sales tax
Property Tax	Municipal fees 5-10% of rental value	0.5% - 2% on market value (local)
Filing Deadline	No personal filing; corporate 9 months after year-end	April 15 (June 15 automatic extension for expats)

UAE has no progressive personal tax system, with 0% tax on employment, investment, and other personal income. This compares to U.S. federal rates ranging from 10% to 37%, though U.S. expats may benefit from the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) of $126,500 for 2024, adjusted for 2026.

One crucial difference lies in the treatment of investment income. UAE applies no tax on capital gains or dividends for individuals. The U.S., conversely, distinguishes between short-term gains (taxed as ordinary income) and long-term gains (taxed at preferential rates of 0%, 15%, or 20% depending on income levels). This difference can significantly impact investment strategy for expats managing portfolios across both countries.

The UAE Tax System Explained in Detail

The UAE tax system presents unique opportunities for American expats accustomed to U.S. tax principles. UAE's approach to taxation focuses on corporate and consumption taxes rather than personal income, differing substantially from the American system and requiring careful study to optimize tax positions and ensure compliance.

Understanding U.S. Income Classifications

Before diving into the UAE system, it's essential to understand how the United States classifies and taxes different types of income, as this provides the framework for comparison and planning strategies.

Earned Income (Active Income)

What it includes: Wages, salaries, tips, bonuses, commissions, self-employment income from sole proprietorships, income from partnerships or S-corporations where you materially participate.

How it's taxed: Subject to progressive tax rates from 10% to 37% based on income brackets. Also subject to Social Security and Medicare taxes (FICA) up to applicable limits.

Special considerations: Eligible for Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) if you qualify, potentially excluding up to $126,500 (2024) from U.S. taxation.

Passive Income

What it includes: Rental income from real estate, royalties from intellectual property, income from limited partnerships where you don't materially participate, income from businesses in which you're not actively involved.

How it's taxed: Generally taxed at ordinary progressive rates. However, qualified dividends and long-term capital gains receive preferential treatment. Passive losses may be limited and carried forward.

Special considerations: Distributions from retirement accounts (401(k), IRA, pensions) are generally taxed as ordinary income. Social Security benefits may be partially taxable depending on total income levels.

Capital Gains

What it includes: Profits from selling assets like stocks, bonds, real estate, businesses, collectibles, or cryptocurrency.

How it's taxed: Short-term gains (assets held ≤1 year) taxed at ordinary rates. Long-term gains (assets held >1 year) taxed at preferential rates: 0% for lower incomes, 15% for middle incomes, 20% for high incomes, plus potential 3.8% Net Investment Income Tax.

Special considerations: Primary residence sale may qualify for $250,000/$500,000 exclusion. Losses can offset gains and up to $3,000 of ordinary income annually.

Interest Income

What it includes: Interest from bank accounts, CDs, corporate bonds, Treasury securities, peer-to-peer lending, and most other debt instruments.

How it's taxed: Generally added to ordinary income and taxed at progressive rates. Municipal bond interest may be exempt from federal tax (and sometimes state tax).

Special considerations: Foreign bank account interest must be reported and may trigger FBAR and Form 8938 requirements.

Dividend Income

What it includes: Distributions from corporations, mutual funds, ETFs, and certain foreign companies.

How it's taxed: Qualified dividends (meeting holding period and other requirements) taxed at long-term capital gains rates. Non-qualified dividends taxed at ordinary rates.

Special considerations: Foreign dividends may qualify for preferential rates if from treaty countries. PFIC rules may apply to certain foreign investments.

Social Security Income

What it includes: Monthly retirement benefits, disability benefits (SSDI), survivor benefits, and spousal benefits from the Social Security Administration.

How it's taxed: Tax-free for low income level. Up to 50% or 85% may be taxable depending on your total income level.

Special considerations: As a U.S. citizen/green card holder in UAE, since there is no tax treaty, U.S. retains taxing rights on Social Security benefits.

The UAE Income Tax Categories

UAE does not categorize personal income for taxation purposes, as there is no personal income tax. Instead, taxation focuses on corporate profits and consumption. This approach differs fundamentally from the U.S. system and requires careful analysis to properly report income and claim applicable benefits.

1. Corporate Tax (Introduced in 2023)

This category encompasses income from business operations for companies with taxable income exceeding AED 375,000. UAE provides a 9% corporate tax rate on profits above this threshold. While not applicable to personal income, it affects expats with UAE businesses or investments in local companies. Small businesses below the threshold remain exempt, and free zone companies may qualify for 0% rate on qualifying income.

Income Type	Tax Treatment	Special Provisions
Business Profits	9% on profits above AED 375,000	Small business exemption Group relief for losses
Free Zone Income Qualifying activities	0% rate option	Applies to export-oriented businesses Maintains substance requirements
Foreign Income For UAE companies	Exempt under participation exemption if conditions met

2. Value Added Tax (VAT)

VAT applies at 5% on most goods and services, with registration required for businesses exceeding AED 375,000 annual turnover. While not a direct income tax, it affects expats through consumption and business operations. Zero-rating applies to exports, international transport, and certain financial services. Input VAT recovery provides relief for businesses, but individuals bear the cost on personal purchases.

Small businesses with turnover below AED 187,500 can opt out of registration, simplifying compliance. This regime particularly benefits American consultants and service providers establishing UAE operations while maintaining simplicity.

3. Excise Tax

Excise tax targets specific goods including tobacco (100%), energy drinks (100%), and carbonated drinks (50%). Administered at federal level, it affects importers and producers rather than individuals. Expats in distribution or retail may need to register if dealing in excisable goods.

The distinction between VAT and excise proves crucial for businesses. While VAT is value-based, excise is quantity or value-specific. Mixed activities may require separate tracking and reporting.

4. Employment Income

Employment income faces no taxation in UAE. However, end-of-service gratuity payments are mandatory for expats, calculated as 21-30 days' salary per year of service. No withholding applies, but employers may offer additional benefits like housing allowances, which remain tax-free.

Employee benefits face no taxation. Company cars, meal allowances, health insurance, and stock options remain untaxed in UAE, though U.S. taxation may apply. Remote work arrangements benefit from no local tax implications.

5. Investment Income

Investment income faces no taxation in UAE for individuals. This encompasses interest, dividends, capital gains from securities, and derivative income. No withholding applies, simplifying compliance while attracting high-net-worth expats.

No annual exemption needed since fully tax-free. Losses have no tax impact. Foreign investment income requires careful attention for U.S. purposes, with no local credits available due to absence of tax treaty.

6. Rental Income

Rental income from UAE real estate faces no personal taxation. Municipal fees apply at 5-10% of rental value in some emirates. No depreciation or expense deductions needed since untaxed. Major property investments benefit from tax-free appreciation.

Short-term rentals like Airbnb remain untaxed personally but may trigger VAT if exceeding threshold. Partial personal use has no tax implications.

7. Other Income

This category would capture any non-standard income, but remains untaxed for individuals. Gambling winnings, alimony, and private asset sales face no taxation. Cryptocurrency gains remain tax-free, creating significant planning opportunities. No holding period requirements for tax exemption.

UAE Taxes and Foreign Tax Credit Eligibility

Understanding which UAE taxes can be claimed as a credit on Form 1116 is crucial for reducing your U.S. tax liability. Since there is no personal income tax, limited credits are available, primarily for corporate tax if applicable.

Creditable Taxes (Form 1116)	Non-Creditable Taxes	Social Insurance Contributions
Corporate Tax: 9% on business profits, potentially creditable if paid Withholding Taxes: None on personal income	VAT: Not creditable as it's a consumption tax Excise Tax: Not creditable Municipal Fees: Not creditable, may be deductible	End-of-Service Gratuity: Not a tax, employer-funded benefit Health Insurance: Mandatory but not creditable No Social Security for Expats: No contributions

UAE Tax Portal and Assessment: Understanding UAE's Digital Tax System

For American expats, navigating UAE’s tax system means becoming familiar with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) portal for any business-related filings. It's the digital backbone of the UAE tax administration, allowing businesses to submit VAT and corporate tax declarations electronically. You can access the official portal directly to get started.

What is the FTA Portal?

FTA Portal is UAE's official online platform for business tax filings. It's the digital system for VAT registration, returns, and corporate tax submissions. Think of it as the UAE equivalent of the IRS's e-file system for businesses. To use it, businesses must register and obtain e-services access, ensuring secure submission.

Key features of FTA Portal:

It's free to use for registered businesses.
It allows digital submission of VAT and corporate tax returns.
It's the primary way to communicate with the FTA about tax matters.
It provides audit trail and compliance tools.

What is a Tax Assessment?

The Tax Assessment is your official notice from the FTA for any audits or adjustments. After submitting returns, the FTA may issue assessments if discrepancies are found. It's the final word on any UAE tax liability. The assessment will clearly state:

Calculated tax due.
Any penalties or interest.
Payments already made.
Whether you owe additional amounts or receive refunds.

For U.S. purposes, any UAE corporate tax paid can potentially be used for foreign tax credits on Form 1116.

Important Note: Assessments are legally binding. If you disagree, you must file an objection within specified timelines. Failure to do so means you are obligated to pay as stated.

U.S.-UAE Totalization Agreement

The U.S. and UAE do not have a Social Security Totalization Agreement. This means American expats in UAE may face dual social security obligations if self-employed, paying into both U.S. FICA and any local requirements, though UAE has no social security tax for expats.

For employees, UAE requires end-of-service gratuity instead of social security. Self-employed expats must pay full U.S. self-employment tax (15.3%) with no relief. No certificate of coverage is available. For official details, Americans in UAE should consult the U.S. Social Security Administration. The absence of agreement means no credit totalization for benefits.

No Agreement Implications	Key Provisions Absent
Self-Employed: Full U.S. SE tax applies Employees: U.S. FICA if U.S. employer Duration: No relief for long-term stays	No elimination of dual coverage No benefit totalization No exemption certificates Potential double taxation for SE

Three-Pillar System Overview

UAE's retirement system for expats differs from traditional pensions:

End-of-Service Gratuity: Mandatory employer-funded benefit for expats.
Employer-Sponsored Plans: Voluntary savings schemes like DEWS in Dubai.
Private Savings: Individual investments, often offshore.

UAE Retirement Accounts and U.S. Tax Treatment

The U.S. tax treatment of UAE retirement benefits is straightforward since UAE has no tax-advantaged plans like IRAs. The IRS treats end-of-service gratuity as ordinary income when received.

End-of-Service Gratuity

Contributions: Employer-funded, not included in U.S. current income.
Distributions: Taxable as ordinary income in U.S.
Reporting: Report on Form 1040 when received.
PFIC Status: Not applicable.

DEWS (Dubai Employee Workplace Savings)

Contributions: Not qualified; employer contributions may be taxable.
Reporting: Form 8938 if thresholds met.
PFIC Concerns: Possible if invested in funds.

Private Savings Plans

Contributions: No U.S. deduction.
Reporting: Form 8938 if applicable.
PFIC Risk: High if in foreign funds.

Offshore Pensions

Contributions: Treated as investments.
Reporting: Form 8938.
PFIC Risk: High.

Insurance Products

Contributions: Non-qualified annuity treatment.
Reporting: Form 8938.
PFIC Risk: Moderate.

Taxation of Distributions from Foreign Pensions

Distributions from U.S. retirement plans like IRAs or 401(k)s are not taxed in UAE. However, they remain fully taxable in the U.S. as ordinary income. Since no UAE tax, no changes pre/post-2025.

Pre-2025 Rules

UAE has no tax on distributions.

Taxable Portion: None in UAE.
Tax Rate: 0%.

Post-2025 Rules (Effective January 1, 2025)

No changes; still 0% tax in UAE.

Taxable Portion: None.
Tax Rate: 0%.
Exceptions: Roth distributions tax-free in U.S. too.

Important Notes for U.S. Expats:

U.S. withholding applies; no UAE credits.
Inherited IRAs treated similarly.
Consult advisor for U.S. rules.

Rules apply to distributions received anytime; no UAE tax impact.

PFIC Mitigation Strategies for UAE Retirement Accounts

A Passive Foreign Investment Company (PFIC) is a foreign corporation that meets specific income or asset tests. Many UAE funds and ETFs may be PFICs, leading to complex U.S. tax consequences.

Identifying PFICs in UAE Plans

Request investment details.
Look for funds or ETFs.
Insurance wrappers don't eliminate PFIC.

Compliance Options

QEF rare; use Mark-to-Market or default regime.

Documentation Requirements

Maintain annual statements, contributions records.

UAE Financial Account Reporting Requirements

U.S. requires reporting foreign accounts if exceeding thresholds, including FBAR and FATCA.

FBAR and FATCA Reporting

Accounts include bank, investment, retirement, insurance with value.

Form 8938 Thresholds for U.S. Expats

Single: $200k/$300k; Joint: $400k/$600k.

UAE Government Benefits and Their U.S. Tax Treatment

UAE offers limited benefits for expats; most not taxable in U.S.

End-of-Service: Taxable in U.S. as income.
Housing Allowance: May be excludable under FEIE.
No Unemployment: For expats.

UAE Business Structures and U.S. Reporting

Reporting varies by structure.

Sole Proprietorship

U.S. Filing: Schedule C, SE tax.

LLC/Free Zone Company

U.S. Filing: Form 5471 if 10%+ ownership.
Additional: GILTI, Subpart F.

Partnerships

U.S. Filing: Form 8865.

Gift and Estate Taxation in UAE

Overview: UAE vs. United States

UAE and U.S. differ in wealth transfers:

UAE: No gift, estate, or inheritance taxes.
U.S.: Unified exemption $13.61M, rates 18-40%.

Key Structural Differences

Who Gets Taxed:

UAE: No tax.
US: Donor or estate.

Exemption Structure:

UAE: Fully exempt.
US: Lifetime exemption.

No Tax Classes in UAE

UAE has no categories or rates for gifts/estates.

Tax Rates Comparison

UAE: 0% on all amounts.

US: Progressive 18-40% above exemption.

Annual Gifting

US: $18k annual exclusion.
UAE: Unlimited tax-free.

Practical Example

Scenario: Transfer AED 2 million

UAE: 0 tax.

US: 0 if under exemption.

No Reset in UAE

No taxes, so no planning needed for UAE.

Residency Rules

UAE: No tax on assets.
US: Worldwide for citizens.

UAE Visa Options for American Expats

UAE offers various visa categories for American citizens, each with distinct requirements, benefits, and implications for U.S. tax planning. Understanding these options is crucial for optimizing your position while ensuring legal residence status.

Golden Visa

The Golden Visa is UAE's premier long-term residence for investors, entrepreneurs, and talents. Requirements include property investment of AED 2M+, or exceptional skills in fields like science or culture. It offers 5-10 year renewable residence without sponsorship, with family inclusion. Path to citizenship possible after 30 years.

Implications allow stable long-term planning for U.S. taxes. Family work rights enable income strategies. Accelerated residence provides certainty for expat exclusions.

Green Visa

The Green Visa targets skilled professionals and freelancers. Requirements include bachelor's degree, AED 15k+ monthly salary or self-employment proof. Provides 5-year residence without employer sponsorship, with family reunification.

Freelancers benefit from no local tax. Flexible job changes aid U.S. tax optimization. Commuting not applicable, but remote work supported.

Entry Permit for Job Seekers

UAE offers 60-180 day job seeker visas for qualified professionals. Requirements include recent graduation or skilled classification, financial proof. Permits job hunting in-country.

No tax during search. Conversion to residence upon employment. Timing optimizes partial-year U.S. taxes.

Freelance Visa

Freelance permits available in free zones like Dubai Media City. Requirements include professional license, business plan, financial proof. Allows independent work for multiple clients.

No trade tax equivalent. Simplified setup reduces costs. Cash-basis for U.S. timing flexibility.

Entrepreneur Visa

Entrepreneur visas for business founders in free zones. Requirements include viable plan, minimum capital (varies), innovation proof. Provides residence for operations.

0% corporate tax in free zones for qualifying. Losses carry forward. Incentives for startups. Path to Golden Visa.

Student and Graduate Visas

Student visas for university enrollment. Requirements include admission, financials, insurance. Graduates get 2-year Golden Visa search extension if high GPA.

Limited work allowed, untaxed. Threshold means most untaxed. Transition to work optimizes benefits.

UAE's Remote Work Visa and Digital Nomad Options

UAE's Remote Work Visa (Virtual Work) allows one-year residence for remote workers. Points not required; proof of AED 18k monthly income, insurance, employer letter.

The Remote Work Visa

One-year visa for remote employees or business owners. Financial proof AED 18k/month, valid passport, insurance. Self-sponsorship.

Part-time local work possible, but focus on remote. Establishes UAE residence for U.S. taxes.

Digital Nomad Considerations

Remote Work Visa suits nomads. Freelance or Golden also options. 90-day visa-free for short stays.

Over 183 days establishes U.S. physical presence test for FEIE. No local tax on foreign income. Treaty absence means careful structuring.

Digital Worker Tax Optimization Strategies:

Structure with non-UAE entities.
Track days for FEIE.
Use no treaty carefully.
Freelance for contractors.
Document location.

Practical Considerations for Remote Workers

Banking accessible with residence. Many banks serve U.S. citizens despite FATCA. Digital banks available. Accounts trigger CRS to U.S.

No social insurance for remote expats. Health insurance mandatory, costs vary.

FAQ for American Expats in UAE

Q: How does the absence of U.S.-UAE tax treaty affect double taxation?

No treaty means no reduced withholding or primary rights assignment. However, since no UAE income tax, no double taxation risk. Use FEIE or FTC (limited) for relief. Tie-breaker not applicable. Standard 30% withholding on U.S.-source income.

Q: Can I contribute to U.S. retirement accounts while in UAE?

Yes, if earned income. UAE has no local plans, so focus on U.S. IRAs, 401(k). No totalization, pay full SE tax if self-employed. Distributions untaxed in UAE, but reportable in U.S.

Q: What happens to my U.S. state tax obligations when I move to UAE?

Depends on state. Aggressive states like CA, NY may pursue. Establish non-residence: UAE registration, license change, account closure, voter update, final returns. No-tax states simplify.

Q: How are UAE real estate investments taxed for U.S. expats?

No UAE tax on rental or gains. Municipal fees deductible. U.S.: Schedule E rental, 27.5-year depreciation. Gains taxed in U.S., primary exclusion possible. No FTC since no UAE tax.

Q: Should I choose the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion or Foreign Tax Credit?

In zero-tax UAE, FEIE typically better to exclude up to limit. FTC not useful without foreign taxes. Combine for investment income. Revocation restricts re-election.

Q: How do I handle UAE taxation of my U.S. investment accounts?

No UAE tax on investments. Self-report U.S. income. UAE funds may be PFICs. Consider U.S.-compliant investments.

Q: What are the implications of maintaining U.S. LLCs or corporations while living in UAE?

LLCs may create issues. Corporations double-taxed. CFC rules may attribute income. Management in UAE could trigger UAE corporate tax. Restructure carefully.

No UAE tax. U.S. taxes as usual, up to 85% taxable.

Q: Can I use the UAE healthcare system, and how does it affect my taxes?

Mandatory insurance, costs deductible in U.S. if itemizing. Satisfies ACA. International plans for U.S. visits.

Q: What triggers U.S. tax audits for expats in UAE, and how should I prepare?

Triggers: Unreported accounts, inconsistent income, foreign transactions. Prepare: Maintain records, use expat specialist, document rates, respond timely. Audits may cover multiple years.

Q: What are the biggest financial mistakes for American expats in UAE?

Assuming no U.S. filing needed due to UAE tax-free status. Failing FBAR/FATCA. Misusing FEIE. Not reporting foreign assets. Proper planning avoids errors.

Why Choose American Expat CPA as Your Tax Partner

Navigating the intersection of U.S. and UAE tax systems requires specialized expertise that goes beyond traditional tax preparation. At American Expat CPA, we've built our practice specifically around the unique challenges faced by U.S. citizens living abroad, with particular depth in UAE tax matters.

Our Specialized Expertise

Our team combines U.S. tax expertise with deep knowledge of UAE tax law and regulations. We maintain relationships with trusted UAE tax advisors to ensure seamless coordination of your obligations. Our professionals stay current with both U.S. tax reform and UAE legislative changes, including the impact of UAE's corporate tax and zero personal tax on your overall strategy.

We understand that every expat situation is unique. Whether you're a professional on a Golden Visa maximizing FEIE, a freelancer navigating free zone setup, or an entrepreneur managing business taxation, we develop customized strategies that optimize your specific circumstances. Our approach goes beyond compliance – we proactively identify opportunities to legally minimize your global tax burden while ensuring full compliance.

Comprehensive Service Offering

Year-Round Tax Planning: We provide continuous planning, including quarterly check-ins to adjust strategies based on changes. We help time income, plan sales, structure investments.

Specialized Expat Forms: Handle Form 2555, 1116, 8938, FBAR, 5471/8865.

UAE System Navigation: Assist with corporate tax if applicable, VAT compliance, coordinating with FTA.

Audit Representation: Full representation for IRS or FTA inquiries.

Technology-Enabled Global Service

Secure portal for documents, messaging, signatures. Video consultations for UAE time.

Transparent, Value-Based Pricing

No surprises; packages include forms. Savings exceed fees.

Getting Started with American Expat CPA:

Free consultation.
Review prior returns.
Streamlined filing.
Ongoing support.
Coordination with UAE advisors.

Your Success is Our Mission

Living in UAE should be about enjoying the lifestyle – not stressing taxes. We handle complexity so you focus on life. Clients save thousands with peace of mind.

Whether planning move or established, we provide expertise for U.S. citizens in UAE.

Disclaimer: The information in this page is provided for general reference only and should not be considered professional tax advice. Before making any decisions or taking action based on this information, you should seek appropriate professional guidance. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and completeness, no guarantee is provided, and we accept no responsibility or liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information provided on this page.