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Dubai’s Department of Finance is set to host the International Tax Conference 2026 tomorrow at the Mohammed bin Rashid Library, in collaboration with the International Network for Tax Law and Policy Research. The event marks the fifth edition of this gathering, held under the umbrella of the World Government Summit, and focuses on achieving corporate tax certainty amid growing international challenges.
According to the Department of Finance, the conference will bring together senior policymakers, tax officials, academics, and representatives from multinational corporations. The event builds on previous successful conferences held in Belgrade, Milan, Vaduz, and London by the International Network for Tax Law and Policy Research.
International Tax Conference Addresses Global Corporate Tax Certainty
The International Tax Conference 2026 convenes under the theme “Achieving Corporate Tax Certainty Internationally Amid Challenges.” The program addresses mounting international tax challenges, particularly in transfer pricing and tax treaty interpretation. Additionally, discussions will cover disagreements that may arise concerning the Global Minimum Tax Framework recently adopted by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development.
His Excellency Abdulrahman Saleh Al Saleh, Director General of Dubai Finance, emphasized that the government’s hosting of this conference reflects its proactive approach in shaping global tax dialogue. He stated that Dubai continues to solidify its position as a trusted partner in promoting global tax certainty at a time when international tax frameworks are undergoing fundamental transformations.
Growing Complexity in International Tax Systems
Abdulaziz Mohammed Al Mulla, who oversees tax affairs for the Dubai government, noted that the conference takes place at a critical juncture for the international tax landscape. He explained that the increasing complexity of tax procedures and escalating dispute risks mean corporations face mounting challenges, creating opportunities to discuss practical and forward-looking approaches that enhance certainty and fairness.
However, the conference aims to do more than identify problems. Al Mulla added that Dubai’s collaboration with major international partners demonstrates the emirate’s commitment to adopting best practices and contributing effectively to developing the global tax system. Meanwhile, the focus on corporate tax certainty reflects broader concerns about maintaining investor confidence in an increasingly complex regulatory environment.
Preventing and Resolving Tax Disputes
Reham Mohammed Karmastaji, Director of Tax Affairs at Dubai Finance, described the conference agenda as rich, diverse, and deeply comprehensive in its coverage of relevant topics. She indicated that the program was carefully designed to address technical challenges facing tax authorities and multinational corporations, particularly regarding transfer pricing, tax treaty interpretation, and dispute resolution mechanisms such as Mutual Agreement Procedures.
In contrast to traditional approaches, the conference will also examine dispute prevention mechanisms like Advance Pricing Agreements. Karmastaji said the gathering is expected to facilitate knowledge exchange about challenges related to practical implementation and emerging trends, including those arising from the Global Minimum Tax Framework, by bringing together policymakers, practitioners, and technical experts.
Expert Perspectives on Tax Policy Challenges
Professor Dr. Vikram Chand, an independent expert in international tax dispute management and conference chair at the International Network for Tax Law and Policy Research, stated that the conference occurs at a decisive stage for global tax policy. He noted that discussions will focus on identifying sources of uncertainty and on practical mechanisms that can help countries and multinational corporations manage disputes effectively and promote cross-border investments.
The conference program includes keynote speeches, high-level panel discussions, and practical sessions covering global and regional tax developments. Additionally, sessions will address the impact of global tax reforms led by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, such as Pillar Two and Qualified Domestic Minimum Top-up Taxes.
The one-day conference is expected to yield recommendations and insights that may influence future tax policy development in Dubai and the broader region. However, specific outcomes and policy commitments will likely be announced following the conclusion of discussions and deliberations among participating stakeholders.
