Step by Step Guide How to File VAT Returns in Dubai

Filing VAT returns is a mandatory requirement for all VAT registered businesses in Dubai and across the UAE. Timely and accurate filing ensures compliance with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA), avoids fines, and allows you to reclaim input VAT. This guide will provide a step-by-step approach to filing VAT returns, plus tips to simplify the process. For more details on VAT registration and eligibility, check our complete guide to VAT Registration Services in UAE.

Step 1: Understand Your Filing Frequency

• Quarterly filing: Most businesses are required to file VAT every 3 months.
• Monthly filing: Applicable for large businesses or as mandated by the FTA.

Tip: The FTA will assign your filing frequency when you register for VAT.

Step 2: Prepare Necessary Documentation

Before filing, gather:

• Sales invoices issued during the tax period
• Purchase invoices and receipts
• Import/export documentation
• Bank statements, if required

Step 3: Access the FTA e-Services Portal

1. Visit https://www.tax.gov.ae
2. Log in using your FTA credentials (TRN and password)
3. Select VAT Returns from the dashboard

Step 4: Fill in Your VAT Return Form

The VAT return form includes:

• Output VAT: VAT collected on sales
• Input VAT: VAT paid on purchases
• Net VAT payable or refundable: Difference between output and input VAT

Pro Tip: Double-check figures and ensure invoices match your accounting records.

Step 5: Submit and Pay VAT (if applicable)

• Submit the completed VAT return online
• Pay any VAT due before the FTA deadline to avoid fines
• If input VAT exceeds output VAT, you can request a refund

Step 6: Keep Records

Maintain records for at least 5 years, as required by the FTA. Include:

• VAT returns
• Supporting invoices
• Bank statements
• Import/export documents

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Filing late or missing deadlines
• Incorrectly reporting VAT on invoices
• Not reconciling accounts with invoices
• Failing to maintain proper records

Learn more about VAT compliance and common mistakes in our post Common VAT Mistakes to Avoid in UAE.  Filing VAT returns in Dubai is straightforward if you follow the right steps. Use digital accounting tools or professional VAT consultants to simplify the process, avoid penalties, and ensure your business remains fully compliant. For businesses that haven’t registered yet, refer to VAT Registration Services in Dubai.