UAE VAT filing deadline set for October 2024

Businesses registered for value-added tax in the United Arab Emirates face an October 2024 deadline to file returns with the Federal Tax Authority. Companies with excess recoverable input VAT have two options under the filing rules: carry the credit forward to offset future output VAT liabilities, or submit a refund application to the authority.

Filing requirements and deadlines#

The Federal Tax Authority requires all VAT-registered entities to submit returns for the relevant tax period by the October deadline. Returns must be filed through the authority's online portal. The filing obligation applies to all registered businesses for the period covered.

Treatment of excess input VAT#

Where a business's recoverable input VAT exceeds its output VAT liability for a tax period, the excess may be carried forward as a credit against future periods. Alternatively, the business may apply to the Federal Tax Authority for a refund of the excess amount. Refund applications are subject to the authority's verification procedures and processing timelines. The authority may request supporting documentation before approving a refund.

Credit carryforward mechanism#

Businesses that elect to carry forward excess input VAT credit apply the amount against output VAT in subsequent tax periods. The credit remains available until fully utilised or until the business applies for a refund. The carryforward option does not require prior approval from the Federal Tax Authority and is recorded in the business's VAT return for the period in which the excess arose.

Refund application process#

Refund applications must be submitted through the Federal Tax Authority's online system. The authority reviews each application and may conduct an audit or request additional documentation before issuing a refund. Processing times vary depending on the complexity of the claim and the completeness of the supporting records. Businesses must maintain invoices, customs declarations and other evidence of input VAT paid for the required retention period.