VAT Refund Services in the UAE
When the input VAT you paid is higher than the VAT you charged, the difference sits as a credit with the FTA. We prepare the refund claim and the evidence the FTA asks for, so the money comes back to your account.
- VAT 311Refund form
- Usually 20 business daysFTA review
- Exporters and new businessesCommon for
How it works in the UAE
Excess input tax builds up when you sell mostly zero rated goods or services, export, or are in a heavy spending phase before revenue starts. You can carry it forward against future VAT, or claim it back in cash.
Refund claims attract scrutiny. The FTA often asks for a sample of purchase invoices, proof of payment, export evidence and reconciliations. We prepare that pack before the claim is filed, which is the single biggest factor in how fast a refund is approved.
What the service includes
VAT refund eligibility review
We confirm the refundable balance and whether a claim or carry forward makes more sense.
VAT return analysis
We review the returns behind the credit for errors that could reduce or delay the refund.
VAT refund application (VAT 311)
We prepare and submit the refund request on EmaraTax.
Document preparation and verification
Invoice listings, payment proof, export documents and reconciliations prepared to FTA standards.
FTA communication and follow up
We answer the FTA’s questions and track the claim through review.
Refund tracking and support
We confirm the payment reaches your bank and record it correctly in your books.
Who it is for
- Exporters and businesses making zero rated supplies
- Companies in a start up or capital spending phase
- Businesses with large one off purchases
- UAE nationals building a new home (separate scheme)
- Tourists and foreign businesses (separate refund schemes)
How we work with you
Balance check
We confirm the excess input tax and review the supporting returns.
Evidence pack
Invoices, payment proof and export documents are compiled and reconciled.
Claim
We file the VAT 311 form on EmaraTax.
Follow up
We handle FTA questions until the refund is paid.
Documents we usually need
- VAT returns for the periods in the claim
- Purchase invoice listing with sample tax invoices
- Proof of payment to suppliers
- Export and customs documents for zero rated sales
- Bank account details (IBAN letter)
We confirm the exact list after a short review, as requirements vary by authority and case.
VAT penalties to know
| Violation | Penalty |
|---|---|
| Late VAT registration | AED 10,000 |
| Late VAT return | AED 1,000 first time, AED 2,000 for a repeat within 24 months |
| Late payment of VAT | 14% a year, charged monthly on the unpaid amount (from 14 April 2026) |
| Incorrect return not fixed in time | AED 500 |
| Voluntary disclosure of an error | 1% of the tax difference for each month |
| Error found by the FTA before you disclosed it | 15% of the tax difference, plus 1% a month |
| Required records not kept | AED 10,000, AED 20,000 for a repeat |
| Late deregistration application | AED 1,000, then monthly up to AED 10,000 |
Source: Cabinet Decision No. 40 of 2017 on administrative penalties, as amended by Cabinet Decision No. 129 of 2025 (in force 14 April 2026). Checked November 2026. Rules change, so we confirm the position for your case.
Questions we hear often
How long does a VAT refund take?
The FTA normally reviews a refund application within 20 business days and can extend that for complex claims. Approved amounts are then paid to your bank account.
Do I have to claim a refund?
No. You can carry the credit forward to offset future VAT. A refund is useful when you expect to stay in a credit position.
Why are refund claims rejected?
Common reasons are missing tax invoices, input VAT claimed on blocked items such as entertainment, unpaid supplier invoices and weak export evidence.
Can you help with a claim that was already rejected?
Yes. We review the FTA decision and, where it is justified, prepare a reconsideration request within the 40 business day window.
Related services
Get a fixed quote for vat refund service
Tell us a little about your business. We will reply within one business day with what is needed, the timeline and a fixed fee.
- Straight answers from qualified accountants and tax agents
- Fixed fees agreed before we start
- Office in Al Fahidi, Dubai, and support across the UAE
An adviser will be in touch shortly. For anything urgent, message us on WhatsApp or call +971 56 505 9557.