Navigating Tax Changes in the Middle East

The GCC is entering a new chapter of economic transformation. The UAE, Saudi Arabia, and the wider Middle East are refining and expanding their tax frameworks, shaping how companies operate, plan, and hire. Understanding these changes is essential especially for organizations preparing for the next wave of regulation coming in 2026 and 2027.

Yesterday, our team at MA & Partners attended a detailed taxation session at DIFC, gaining clarity on current regulations and upcoming shifts. As a recruitment agency working closely with banks, financial services, and multinational organizations, staying informed is part of our commitment to excellence.

Why Tax Knowledge Matters in Recruitment

Taxation is no longer a niche topic it directly influences hiring strategies across the region. With increased compliance obligations, companies are strengthening their internal structures, creating high demand for:

• CFOs & Finance Directors

• Tax Managers & Tax Partners

• Transfer Pricing Specialists

• Compliance & Governance Leaders

• Risk and Internal Audit professionals

• MLRO & regulatory-focused positions

Understanding tax developments allows us to anticipate market needs and ensure our clients have access to the talent required for a rapidly evolving environment.

What’s Coming Next: Tax Changes Expected in 2026/2027

Both the UAE and Saudi Arabia are preparing for the next phase of tax evolution. While official announcements may differ by country, the market is already anticipating several important developments:

1. Expanded Corporate Tax Scope

More sectors may be brought into full corporate tax compliance, including free zone entities that currently enjoy specific exemptions. Businesses are preparing early by strengthening tax planning and reporting structures.

2. Advanced Transfer Pricing (TP) Requirements

By 2026–2027, TP documentation including master files, local files, and country-by-country reporting is expected to become more detailed and enforced with higher penalties for non-compliance.

This will significantly increase the need for TP experts, Tax Partners, and senior tax advisory roles.

3. Increased Audit & Compliance Monitoring

Stricter oversight is expected across VAT, corporate tax, and cross-border transactions. Companies are already hiring more compliance and audit professionals to ensure readiness.

4. Digitalization of Tax Processes

Saudi Arabia and the UAE are both investing in automated tax platforms, e-invoicing expansion, and digital submissions. This shift will require talent with both tax and technology experience.

5. Potential Review of Personal Tax Discussions

While no personal income tax is currently planned, experts believe discussions around enhanced levies or expanded tax models may intensify after 2026.Even rumours influence how companies structure compensation and long-term workforce planning.

For recruitment, this means growing demand for tax strategists, regulatory advisors, digital transformation experts, and senior finance leaders who understand the changing landscape.

Our Commitment as a Team

Our visit to DIFC reinforced something we believe deeply at MA & Partners:

As a team, we are committed to:

• staying up to date on regional tax frameworks

• understanding how regulation shapes hiring trends

• guiding clients with accurate market insights

• supporting candidates with clarity on future requirements

• growing together through continuous learning

When we learn as a team, we elevate the service we provide to others.

Moving Forward with Confidence

The taxation landscape of the GCC will continue to evolve through 2026 and 2027. Companies that prepare early by strengthening leadership teams and ensuring compliance readiness will gain a major advantage.

At MA & Partners, our role is to stay ahead of these developments so we can connect our clients with the right talent, at the right time, with the right expertise.

We stay informed.

We grow together.

And we’re ready for what’s next.