VAT refund filing services in Dubai
Say goodbye to tedious paperwork. Our VAT refund filing services in the UAE provide a seamless, efficient process that saves you valuable resources.
What is VAT refund filing in Dubai, UAE?
Each Taxable Person must file a VAT return describing the VAT owed to the FTA for the tax period. If the input tax on a return is more than the output tax, the Taxable Person may ask for a VAT refund after submitting that return, or at any later time when they are due a credit.
The FTA assesses the application and notifies you of its decision to accept or reject the claim within its published timeframe. It reviews claims closely, so the documentation has to be right first time.
- Input VAT exceeds output VAT, common for exporters and businesses in a capital investment phase
- Zero-rated supplies, where you charge no VAT on sales but reclaim VAT on costs
- Large capital purchases in a single period
- Overpayment of tax beyond what was due
Get your VAT reimbursement in Dubai, UAE with ACL
We specialise in helping businesses claim their VAT refunds, so you can reduce your costs and improve your bottom line.
We review your recent returns and tell you whether a claim is worth making and what evidence it needs.
- Eligibility review
- Credit position check
We prepare the refund application accurately and promptly, and assemble the supporting documents.
- Refund form completed
- Invoices and records checked
We file the claim and deal with any request for further documents or clarification from the FTA.
- FTA correspondence
- Support if a claim is rejected
VAT refund for tourists in the UAE
Visitors can collect VAT refunds on eligible purchases made in the UAE. This is a separate scheme and applies to visitors, not businesses.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Who qualifies | Visitors who are not resident in the UAE and are not crew on a flight leaving the UAE |
| What is needed | Tax-free tags, the relevant tax invoices, a boarding pass for departure by air or sea, and an original valid passport or national ID card. Copies are not accepted. |
| Where it is claimed | At the departure point, through the operator of the scheme |
| Businesses | Businesses recover VAT through their returns, not through this scheme |
What documents are required for a VAT refund in the UAE?
We help you assemble the evidence that supports your claim.
Why businesses choose ACL for VAT refunds
We specialise in assisting businesses to claim their VAT refunds in the UAE, and work to FTA documentation requirements.
Our experts prepare your application carefully, because incomplete documentation is the usual cause of delay.
We take on the tedious paperwork, saving you valuable time and resources.
Supporting more than 500 businesses across the UAE since 2017 with VAT, accounting and corporate tax.
How your VAT refund claim runs
Send us your last few returns and we confirm whether you are due a credit and whether a claim is worthwhile.
We collect your highest-value invoices, zero-rated records and IBAN validation letter.
We complete the refund form and submit the claim to the FTA.
The FTA assesses the claim and notifies its decision. We respond to any queries, and advise on next steps if it is rejected.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about VAT refunds in the UAE.
How long does it take to receive a VAT refund in the UAE?
The FTA reviews the application and notifies its decision within its published timeframe. This may vary with the complexity of the application and the FTA's workload.
Can I claim VAT refunds for all expenses incurred in the UAE?
No. Personal expenses are generally not eligible, and certain business categories, including some entertainment and motor vehicle costs, are blocked or restricted.
What if my VAT refund application is rejected?
You may have the option to appeal by providing additional supporting documents or clarifications. It is important to review the reasons given by the FTA and take appropriate action.
Do I need a valid tax invoice for every claim?
Yes. Claims not supported by valid tax invoices can be disallowed.
When can a business ask for a refund?
After submitting a VAT return where input tax exceeds output tax, or at any later time when you are due a credit.
Can a business use the tourist refund scheme?
No. The tourist scheme is for visitors. Businesses recover VAT through their VAT returns and refund applications.
What our Dubai clients say
About ACL Tax Consultants
Since 2017, ACL Tax Consultants has supported more than 500 businesses across the UAE with accounting, audit, VAT and corporate tax services — from one team, at fixed fees agreed upfront.
In a refund position?
Let us help you reduce your costs and improve your bottom line. Send us your last few returns and we will tell you whether a claim is worth making and what evidence it needs.
Speak to our experts about your VAT refund.