Overview
UAE compliance and economic substance services for regulated businesses. Ensure adherence to ESR, corporate tax, and regulatory requirements — built to minimise risk and maintain operational integrity.
The UAE's regulatory landscape has evolved significantly in recent years, with the introduction of Economic Substance Regulations (ESR), corporate tax, and enhanced AML/CFT requirements. Non-compliance carries serious consequences — including financial penalties, licence suspension, and reputational damage. Atlas provides comprehensive compliance and economic substance services to help UAE businesses navigate these obligations with confidence.
Why Choose Atlas
Key Features & Benefits
Economic Substance Assessment
Detailed assessment of whether your UAE entity falls within the scope of the Economic Substance Regulations and what substance requirements apply.
ESR Reporting
Preparation and submission of annual Economic Substance notifications and reports to the relevant UAE regulatory authority.
Corporate Tax Compliance
Guidance on UAE Corporate Tax registration, return preparation, and compliance — including qualifying income and exempt income analysis.
AML/CFT Compliance
Design and implementation of AML/CFT policies, procedures, and controls in line with CBUAE and DFSA requirements.
Regulatory Health Checks
Periodic compliance health checks to identify and remediate gaps before they become regulatory issues.
Regulatory Liaison
Representation and liaison with DIFC Authority, DFSA, FTA, and other UAE regulators on compliance matters.
Our Process
How We Work
Compliance Audit
We conduct a comprehensive audit of your current compliance status across all relevant regulatory frameworks.
Gap Analysis
We identify gaps and risks and prioritise remediation actions.
Remediation Plan
We develop and implement a remediation plan to address identified gaps and strengthen your compliance framework.
Policy & Procedure Design
We draft or update compliance policies and procedures in line with current regulatory requirements.
Reporting & Filings
We prepare and submit all required regulatory reports and filings on your behalf.
Ongoing Monitoring
We provide continuous compliance monitoring, regulatory updates, and periodic reviews.
Full Service
What's Included
Everything handled, from initial advisory through to ongoing compliance and support.
Get Expert Advice
Stay ahead of UAE regulatory requirements. Let Atlas manage your compliance.
Our DIFC specialists are available for a free initial consultation to understand your requirements and recommend the best solution.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the UAE Economic Substance Regulations?
ESR require UAE entities carrying on certain relevant activities to demonstrate adequate substance and file annual notifications and reports.
Does my DIFC entity need to file an ESR report?
It depends on whether you carry on a relevant activity and earn income from it. Atlas runs an assessment to determine your obligations.
What are the penalties for ESR non-compliance?
Penalties can include financial fines and information sharing with foreign authorities. Atlas manages assessments and filings to keep you compliant.
Which activities are within scope of ESR?
Relevant activities include holding company, headquarters, fund management, financing and leasing, and intellectual property, among others. Atlas assesses whether your activities are in scope.
What is the difference between an ESR notification and report?
A notification declares whether you carry on a relevant activity; a report demonstrates substance. Atlas prepares and files both as required.
Does ESR still apply now that UAE corporate tax exists?
ESR continues to apply alongside corporate tax. Atlas advises on what is still required for your entity.
What is AML/CFT compliance?
Anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist-financing rules require policies, KYC and ongoing monitoring. Atlas designs and implements a compliant framework.
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