21 May, 2014 – Deloitte hosted its eighth annual Middle East Tax Conference, in a two-day event which gathered over one hundred Deloitte clients and partners to address recent developments in the Middle East, including the emerging markets. Discussions on emerging markets such as Iraq, Libya, and Mauritania were also discussed in-depth during the conference. 

“This year’s conference introduced wider taxation issues for Middle Eastern domiciled businesses, as well as inbounds. We discussed tax structuring in the macro environmental context of BEPS, as well as the economic progress, tax incentives and exemptions of key countries in the region,” said Nauman Ahmed, Deloitte Middle East tax practice leader. “One key plenary session looked at tax structuring from an international perspective, with insights from our Deloitte colleagues globally – an example of the experience and insight led focus of our flagship conference.” 

Over the two days conference, participants came together to gain insight into broader themes which are affecting taxation globally, including regulatory and economic considerations that senior tax executives needs to be aware of when considering how tax is aligned to their organization’s business model.

A number of breakout sessions were also held at this regional Deloitte Tax Conference, covering a diverse range of timely topics, including among others country-specific updates, transfer pricing, financial services tax, changing business and tax landscapes.

“We are seeing an increased focus by tax authorities on cross border trade - a trend which has resulted in the further development of domestic laws, as well as an increase in the level of international treaties agreed within the region,” explained Alex Law, partner, international tax services at Deloitte Middle East. “This is providing significant opportunities for investors who are looking to do business in the Middle East and our conference will help senior tax executives to understand the relevant fiscal and taxation policies across the region and tailor these insights to their businesses.”

During the event, Deloitte released its 2014 Annual Middle East Tax Handbook, highlighting the most current tax rules and regulations impacting the region. 

To download the Deloitte 2014 Annual Middle East Tax Handbook, click on: www.deloitte.com/metaxhandbook2014