Philippines vs United Arab Emirates
Tax Rate Comparison
Enter your income below for a personal tax estimate, then scroll down for full rate breakdowns.
๐ฐ Personal Income Tax Calculator
Enter your income to see your estimated annual tax liability in each country โ side by side.
๐ต๐ญ Philippines โ Local Government Unit (LGU) Taxes
The Philippines' 82 provinces, 146 cities, and 1,488 municipalities levy business taxes (1%โ2% of gross receipts), real property tax, and fees. Cities can levy local business taxes at their own rates within national caps. The local business tax is a major compliance burden for businesses operating across multiple LGUs. The BIR (Bureau of Internal Revenue) administers national taxes. The Create Act (2021) significantly reformed corporate income tax rates.
๐ฆ๐ช United Arab Emirates โ Emirate-Level Fees & Free Zone Benefits
The UAE has no federal income tax on individuals. Emirates impose municipality fees (~5%) on commercial rents and tourism/hotel fees of 10โ15%. Free Zones (DIFC, ADGM, Jebel Ali) offer 0โ9% corporate rates for qualifying activities. Real estate transfer fees of 4% apply in Dubai. Emiratisation targets are increasing employer costs.
Philippines vs United Arab Emirates: Key Tax Differences (2026)
๐ฐ Income Tax: ๐ต๐ญ Philippines has a higher top income tax rate (0โ35% vs 0%). ๐ฆ๐ช United Arab Emirates is more favourable for high earners.
๐ VAT/Sales Tax: Philippines has a higher consumption tax (12% vs 5%).
๐ข Corporate Tax: ๐ฆ๐ช United Arab Emirates offers a lower corporate rate (9% vs 25%), which can influence business location decisions.
๐ Capital Gains: ๐ฆ๐ช United Arab Emirates taxes investment gains at a lower rate (0% vs 15%), benefiting investors.