Withholding Tax (WHT)

Withholding tax (WHT) is deducted at source for certain types of payments made by residents to non-residents. In the GCC, WHT is not applicable in the UAE and Bahrain. However, WHT is applicable in Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia for interest, dividends, and royalties paid to non-residents as follows :-

  • Kuwait : Businesses retain 5% of payments to beneficiaries, released upon producing an NOC from the Kuwait Tax Authority.
  • Oman : WHT rate is 10% of gross payments.
  • Qatar : WHT rate is 5% on fees, royalties, interest, commissions, and other services.
  • Saudi Arabia : WHT rate is 15% on royalties and commissions, attendance fees, and other services, and 5% on technical fees, interest, and dividends.
  • In the UAE, businesses can seek tax relief within countries that have a Double Tax Treaty (DTT) with the UAE.


It is important to stay updated with the latest tax regulations and consult with tax professionals to ensure compliance with withholding tax requirements in each respective country. A V Savla offers a range of WHT services provided by direct tax experts : -

We provide insights into the implications of country-specific WHT on proposed or existing transactions involving GCC/ME entities with foreign and domestic businesses.

Our services include conducting withholding tax health checks and diagnostic reviews.

We offer advice on the WHT implications related to modes of repatriation such as interest, fees for technical services,
and royalties, specifically for transactions involving related parties.

We conduct studies on applicable WHT rates, possible exemptions, and exclusions under country CIT and WHT provisions, considering relevant Double Tax Treaties.

Our experts provide comprehensive analysis and advice on tax retention implications, where applicable.

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