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What is the interest withholding rate between United Arab Emirates and South Africa?

The United Arab Emirates-South Africa tax treaty reduces the withholding rate on interest payments to 0%. This means interest paid between residents of these two countries is exempt from withholding tax at source. This is particularly beneficial for cross-border debt financing and bank deposits. The 0% rate still requires proper documentation — it does not apply automatically. Interest is fully exempt — United Arab Emirates has 16 such treaties in its network.

Network Comparison

United Arab Emirates

Rank 16 of 21 active treaties (lowest rate = #1)

Lower rates with: Saudi Arabia (0%), Singapore (0%), United States (0%)

Higher rates with: Canada (10%), Japan (10%), Thailand (10%)

South Africa

Rank 1 of 37 active treaties (lowest rate = #1)

Higher rates with: Cyprus (0%), Czech Republic (0%), Finland (0%)

Sources

Data last reviewed: 2026-04-07

Important: Treaty rates require proper claim forms (e.g., IRS Form W-8BEN for U.S. treaties, HMRC DT-Individual for U.K. treaties, CRA Form NR301 for Canadian treaties) filed before payment. Limitation on Benefits (LOB) provisions may restrict eligibility. A 0% withholding rate does not mean no tax — the residence country may still tax the income. This is not tax advice.
View full United Arab Emirates-South Africatreaty details →
Guide: Interest withholding tax explained→

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