VAT registration
Threshold monitoring, registration on EmaraTax and your TRN certificate.
VAT · Registration & returns
VAT for new UAE companies — when to register and what follows
VAT registration when you reach the threshold, quarterly returns reconciled to your books, and help with FTA queries, refunds and voluntary disclosures.
UAE VAT in brief
- Standard rate of 5% on most goods and services
- Registration is mandatory once taxable supplies and imports pass AED 375,000 in the previous 12 months, or are expected to in the next 30 days
- Voluntary registration is possible from AED 187,500
- Returns are usually filed quarterly on EmaraTax, within 28 days of the period end
- Records must be kept and tax invoices must meet FTA requirements
Late registration and late or incorrect returns carry administrative penalties, so it pays to get the timing and the numbers right.
What we cover
Quarterly returns
Returns prepared from reconciled books and filed before the deadline.
Reviews & corrections
Health checks, voluntary disclosures and responses to FTA queries.
Refunds
Preparing and supporting VAT refund claims where you're in a refund position.
Designated zones
Advice on VAT treatment for designated zone and cross-border supplies.
Deregistration
Deregistering correctly when you no longer need to be registered.
Tax & accounting partner · pbz.ae
VAT services and prices
Our tax & accounting team at pbz.ae publishes fixed fees for VAT registration and quarterly VAT returns.
Frequently asked questions
When must my company register for VAT?
When taxable supplies and imports exceed AED 375,000 over the previous 12 months, or are expected to exceed it in the next 30 days. You can register voluntarily from AED 187,500.
Do free zone companies charge VAT?
Yes, in most cases. Free zone companies are generally treated like any other UAE business for VAT; special rules apply only to certain goods movements within designated zones.
How often are VAT returns filed?
Most businesses file quarterly, within 28 days after the end of each tax period. Some larger businesses file monthly.
Talk to us about your company
Book a short online meeting and we'll tell you exactly what your company needs to file, and when.
Important: This page is provided for general information and knowledge purposes only, as at 10 October 2026. It is not legal, tax, immigration, financial or other professional advice, and it is not a recommendation or suggestion to take, or not take, any action. UAE laws, government requirements, fees and processes change frequently and can depend on your specific facts, so verify the current position with the relevant authority or a qualified adviser before making any decision. Any service from ProBiz Setup is provided only under a written engagement. See our full disclaimer.