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VAT Refund Dubai
Following VAT registration in Dubai , you must accurately file your VAT returns on time. The Federal Tax Authority takes compliance seriously and enforces penalties for late VAT payments. These penalties begin at 2% of the unpaid amount and immediately after the due date. They rise to 4% if left unpaid for one month and then accrue at 1% daily. The maximum is 300% of the outstanding tax.
At Dubai Pivot, we can connect UK businesses with experienced VAT consultants who can manage your VAT return filing on your behalf. This ensures your returns are accurate, submitted on time and that your business stays in good standing with the FTA.
Unsure whether your VAT returns are being managed correctly? Book a free call with a member of our team.
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VAT Return Filing in Dubai
VAT return filing in the UAE is done through the FTA’s EmaraTax portal. Although the process is online, the accuracy of what you submit is based on the quality of your bookkeeping and record-keeping throughout the period. Mistakes or omissions in your return can lead to an FTA audit. The FTA conducted 93,000 inspection visits in 2024, this is a 135% increase from 2023. The risk of being reviewed is increasing.
At Dubai Pivot, we work with VAT accountants in Dubai who will prepare and file your returns accurately, align your records before each deadline and provide reminders.
What your VAT accountant in Dubai will manage:
- Calculating your output VAT on taxable sales and supplies
- Identifying and claiming all allowable input VAT on business expenses
- Aligning your VAT records against your accounting books
- Preparing and submitting your VAT return via EmaraTax
- Making payment on your behalf before the deadline
- Flagging any VAT refund entitlement where input VAT exceeds output VAT
- Keep records compliant in case of an FTA audit
Commonly in the early stages of business setup your business may incur more VAT on purchases than sales. If this happens, you are entitled to claim the difference back from the FTA.
Ready to pass over your VAT return filing to a professional? Contact our team and we will connect you with the right VAT accountant for your business.
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Frequently Asked Questions
You file VAT returns through the FTA’s EmaraTax portal. You will need to report your output on sales and input VAT on expenses.Then, submit payment before the 28th of the month following your tax period.
Yes. The UAE introduced VAT in January 2018 at a standard rate of 5%. Businesses that have taxable supplies exceeding AED 375,000 per year must register and file returns with the FTA.
VAT returns and payments must be filed by the 28th day of the month following the end of your tax period. For most businesses this is quarterly. By missing this deadline you face immediate penalties.