Value Added Tax (VAT) was introduced in UAE on January 1, 2018, at a standard rate of 5%. Here's everything you need to know.
Who Must Register for VAT?
Mandatory Registration:
- Businesses with taxable supplies exceeding AED 375,000 per year
- Must register within 30 days of exceeding threshold
- Businesses with taxable supplies between AED 187,500 and AED 375,000
- Can voluntarily register to reclaim input VAT
- Trade license copy
- Emirates ID of business owner
- Passport copies of partners/shareholders
- Memorandum of Association
- Bank account details
- Proof of business address
- Financial statements or projected turnover
- Not maintaining proper tax invoices
- Missing filing deadlines
- Incorrect VAT calculations
- Poor record keeping
Voluntary Registration:
!Business documents and compliance checklist
Required Documents
Registration Steps
1. Create account on FTA portal 2. Complete VAT registration form 3. Upload supporting documents 4. Submit application 5. Receive Tax Registration Number (TRN)
!Calendar showing filing deadlines
VAT Return Filing
VAT returns must be filed quarterly or monthly depending on your taxable turnover. Returns are due within 28 days after the end of each tax period. Late filing penalties start at AED 1,000.