Money in United Arab Emirates
Plan your money in the UAE with free calculators that work in dirhams — built for residents and expats saving, investing and planning ahead.
Free calculators for United Arab Emirates
These open in AED automatically. You can switch currency on any tool.
Key rules to know
No personal income tax
The UAE does not tax individual employment income, which makes a high savings rate possible — but there is no state pension for most expats, so your own savings plan matters more.
VAT applies to most purchases
VAT is charged on most goods and services. Businesses above the registration threshold must register with the Federal Tax Authority.
Corporate tax for businesses
A federal corporate tax applies to business profits above a threshold. Freelancers and company owners should check whether they need to register with the FTA.
End-of-service gratuity
Private-sector employees are generally entitled to an end-of-service benefit based on basic salary and years of service under UAE labour law. Check the rules that apply to your contract.
Your credit report matters
Al Etihad Credit Bureau (AECB) keeps credit reports and scores used by UAE banks for loans and cards.
Choose regulated providers
Check that your bank, broker or insurer is licensed by the Central Bank, the SCA, or the DFSA or FSRA for firms in the DIFC and ADGM free zones.
Official sources
Rates, limits and allowances change. Always confirm current figures with the official source.
- Central Bank of the UAE — Banking rules, licensed institutions, consumer protection
- Federal Tax Authority — VAT and corporate tax registration
- Securities and Commodities Authority — Investment and broker regulation
- Al Etihad Credit Bureau — Credit reports and scores
- Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation — Labour law and end-of-service rules
- DFSA (DIFC) — Regulator for firms in the DIFC
Common questions
How much should an expat save in the UAE?
Because there is usually no state pension and stays can end suddenly, many planners suggest keeping a larger emergency fund (6–12 months) and saving a high share of income toward long-term goals.
Rent or buy in Dubai or Abu Dhabi?
Buying makes more sense the longer you plan to stay. Include the upfront fees, which are significant, in your comparison.
This page is general education, not financial, tax or legal advice. See our disclaimer.