Easily File Your VAT Return in the UAE with DBS

If your business is registered for VAT in UAE, then you have to file your VAT return on time. The Federal Tax Authority (FTA) will ask you to file monthly or quarterly.

During this time, you will need to show how much VAT you have collected from your customers. You will also need to calculate your total VAT, check if you can get any refunds for VAT paid to suppliers, and then submit everything to the FTA.

Filing a VAT return can be confusing. You will need to collect your financial statements, determine the correct VAT amount and upload everything on the FTA portal. If you make a mistake or miss the deadline, the FTA can impose heavy penalties on you.

To avoid problems, it is wise to work with a VAT expert. At DBS Group, our in-house VAT team takes care of the entire process for you. We collect your data, check it, prepare the return, and submit it on time.

We help you to be 100% compliant and ensure that you get VAT refunds you deserve. With our experienced team, you can stop worrying about VAT and focus on your business. Let's Dubai business services handle everything quickly, right and stress-free.

What Is a VAT Return in the UAE?

VAT Return is a report that reflects the sale and purchase made by your business during a specific period. This includes how much VAT you have collected from your customers (called output VAT) and how much VAT you have paid to your suppliers (called input VAT). It also includes things like imports, exports, tax-free sales and reverse charge.

If your business is registered for VAT in the UAE, you must file this report with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA). You need to submit it online using the FTA’s EMARATAX portal. Depending on the size and revenue of your business, you will file a VAT return either monthly or every three months (quarterly). Filing your VAT return on time keeps your business legal and compliant.

The form you use to file a VAT return is called VAT 201. It has some main sections:

VAT on sales (output VAT): Here, you show how much VAT you have collected from your customers on your sale.

VAT on purchases (input VAT): Here, you list how much VAT you have paid on business related purchases and expenses.

Net VAT outstanding: This is the difference between what you have collected and what you have paid.

If you have collected more VAT than you have paid, you will need to pay the difference to the FTA.

If you have paid more VAT than you have collected, you can claim a refund or use that extra amount in your next return.

Checklist Before Submitting VAT Returns in the UAE

Submitting a VAT return is more than just entering numbers online. You need to prepare all records and reports properly. Here is a simple checklist:

Documents And Details to Have Ready:

VAT registration certificate
Purchase invoice
Sales invoice
Import and export customs papers
Credit notes and debit notes
Any updates or corrections from previous returns
Bank statements (not required but useful for matching records)

Things to Review Before Submission:

Verify input VAT and output VAT figures
Check that each tax invoice meets the requirements
Match sales and purchases to avoid errors
Confirm the due date of VAT return on the FTA portal
Ensure that all transactions fall under the correct category (standard-rated, zero-rated, exempt)

Details Required to File VAT 201 Return Form

You can file VAT returns only on the FTA website. You will have to enter your sales, purchases, input VAT and output VAT manually.

The VAT 201 form has seven simple parts:

VAT return period
VAT on sales and other outputs
VAT on expenses and other inputs
Taxpayer details
Net VAT due
Additional reporting requirements
Declaration and authorised signatory

File Your VAT Returns Easily with DBS Group

At Dubai Business Services Group, our team helps you file your VAT returns correctly. We know the VAT rules and guide you through every step. We help you collect the necessary paperwork and submit your VAT returns to the FTA portal. We ensure that everything is done correctly so that you don’t face any errors or penalties.

With our help, you can file your VAT returns without stress or worry.

FAQs: Questions & Answers

Who Should Register for VAT in The UAE?

If your business earns more than AED 375,000 per year from sales or imports, then you have to register for VAT. If you earn between AED 187,500 and AED 375,000, you can register if you want.

What Are The Types of VAT Rates in The UAE?

There are three VAT rates:

5% standard rate - This applies to most goods and services.
0% zero rate - This applies to exports, some health and education services.
Exempt - No VAT. This includes some banking services, accommodation and local transport.

How to Register for VAT in The UAE?

Go to the FTA website and create an account.
Fill out the VAT form and upload the required documents.
Then submit your registration online.

When to File And Pay VAT In The UAE?

Pay the file and your VAT return within 28 days of the end of the tax period. Depending on your turnover, your tax period can be monthly or quarterly.