Authorities in the United Arab Emirates have privately indicated they will allow expats to spend more time abroad without losing their lucrative tax status as the country tries to incentivise residents who fled after the outbreak of the Iran conflict to return.
People who have left the Gulf state since the start of the war are likely to be shown greater leniency on rules that require them to be present in the UAE for a minimum number of days each year to qualify as tax residents, according to people briefed on authorities’ plans.
The move would be particularly important for Dubai, which has become the region’s financial centre, attracting wealthy individuals with its zero income tax rate as well as a reputation for safety and an abundance of capital.