The United Arab Emirates is a global business hub with a booming economy and is known as a tax haven. However, US expats living in the UAE should not ignore their tax obligations. The United States taxes its citizens regardless of their location in the world, including those working overseas. This article will help you understand your responsibilities as an American expat in the UAE.
There are an estimated 332,000 Americans living in the UAE, with the majority of them residing in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. This is a huge jump from when statistics were first produced in 1999, when there were only 7,500 Americans living in the UAE. The UAE US taxes for expats in UAE is one of the top destinations for American expats due to its low cost of living and the ease with which they can get around the region. However, it is important to keep in mind that the UAE does not have a double tax treaty with the United States. Therefore, you will still need to consider both the UAE and U.S. taxes each year when making strategic decisions.
The main type of taxation that the UAE has in place is a value-added tax (VAT). This was first introduced in January 1, 2018 and affects all goods and services provided in the country. The VAT rate is 5% for residential and 14% for commercial properties. The UAE is also a member of the Gulf Cooperation Council, which is a free trade area. As a result, the UAE does not have a double taxation treaty with any countries in the region.
Although the UAE does not have a tax treaty with the United States, it is possible that you may be able to reduce your overall tax burden by claiming the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion. In order to qualify, you will need to have been outside of the United States for at least 12 months and meet certain time-based requirements.
In addition to the FEIE, it is also possible that you could be eligible for additional deductions such as the Housing Exclusion and/or the Foreign Tax Credit. If you are interested in maximizing your benefits and minimizing your tax liability, it is essential to work with an experienced US expat tax specialist.
US taxes for expats in the UAE are complex, but it is possible to minimize your risk and maximize your benefits with expert guidance. Tax Samaritan can provide you with a comprehensive review of your situation and ensure that you are filing correctly. Our service is comprehensive, affordable and guaranteed to deliver the best possible outcome for your unique circumstances.
Contact us today for a free consultation about your US taxes for expats in the UAE. We look forward to hearing from you!