UAE VAT Refund Services (Dubai) | Claim Back Your VAT

Expert assistance with preparing, submitting, and managing your VAT refund applications with the FTA. Improve your cash flow.

Claim Your VAT Refund

Recovering Excess VAT Paid: The UAE Refund Mechanism

When a business's recoverable input VAT exceeds its output VAT in a tax period, the difference can potentially be claimed back from the Federal Tax Authority (FTA).

Common Scenarios for VAT Refunds

  • Businesses primarily making zero-rated supplies (e.g., exports)
  • Companies with significant capital expenditure
  • Start-ups in their initial investment phase
  • Businesses with excess input tax due to specific business activities

Who Can Claim a VAT Refund in the UAE?

Not all businesses are eligible for VAT refunds. Understanding your eligibility is the first step toward recovering your excess input tax.

Primary Business Eligibility

  • VAT registered businesses with excess recoverable input tax (where input VAT consistently exceeds output VAT)
  • Businesses primarily making zero-rated supplies (e.g., exporters)
  • Companies with significant capital expenditure during the tax period
  • Start-up businesses in their initial investment phase

Special Refund Schemes

  • Foreign businesses not established in the UAE (subject to specific criteria)
  • Specific government entities listed by cabinet decision
  • Businesses in designated zones making supplies to mainland UAE
  • Charitable organizations (for non-business activities)

Not Sure About Your Eligibility?

Our experts can assess your specific situation and determine if you're eligible for a VAT refund. Many businesses don't realize they qualify for significant refunds.

Our Process for Managing Your VAT Refund Claim

We follow a systematic approach to maximize your chance of a successful VAT refund while minimizing the administrative burden on your business.

1

Initial Review & Eligibility Confirmation

We assess your business transactions and financial records to confirm your eligibility for a VAT refund and estimate the potential refundable amount.

20% Complete

2

Document Collection & Preparation

Our team works with you to gather and organize all necessary documentation required by the FTA to substantiate your refund claim.

40% Complete

3

Application Preparation

We carefully complete the VAT refund application form ensuring all information is accurate and aligns with the supporting documentation.

60% Complete

4

Submission & FTA Liaison

We submit the application through the FTA portal and manage all communications with the tax authority during their review process.

80% Complete

5

Refund Processing & Confirmation

We monitor the status of your claim and confirm successful processing once the FTA approves and issues your refund.

100% Complete

"Our streamlined process typically takes 8-12 weeks from initial assessment to refund receipt, depending on the complexity of the claim and FTA processing times."

Important Factors in the UAE VAT Refund Process

Understanding these key considerations helps set realistic expectations and prepare thoroughly for the VAT refund process.

Processing Timeframes

The FTA typically processes refund applications within 20 business days, though more complex claims may take longer. Our expertise helps minimize delays by ensuring complete and accurate submissions.

Documentation Requirements

The FTA requires robust supporting documentation for all refund claims, including tax invoices, proof of payment, and evidence of business purpose. Our team helps you compile a comprehensive documentation package.

Potential for FTA Audits

VAT refund claims often trigger FTA audits, especially for first-time applicants or larger amounts. We prepare your business for potential audit queries and provide support throughout the process.

Minimum Thresholds

For standard VAT refunds, businesses must typically wait until the end of the tax period. However, exporters making zero-rated supplies may apply for more frequent refunds subject to specific conditions.

Expert Insight

"While VAT refunds are a legal right for eligible businesses, the FTA scrutinizes applications carefully to prevent improper claims. Working with experienced tax professionals significantly increases your chances of success and helps avoid unnecessary delays."

Streamlining Your UAE VAT Refund Application

Our comprehensive VAT refund services ensure you maximize recoverable amounts while navigating the complex FTA procedures effectively.

Eligibility Assessment & Calculation

We thoroughly analyze your situation to determine refund eligibility and accurately calculate the maximum claimable amount.

Documentation Preparation

Our team compiles and meticulously organizes all supporting documents required by the FTA to substantiate your refund claim.

Application Submission

We prepare and submit your VAT refund application via the FTA's EmaraTax portal, ensuring all requirements are met.

FTA Query Management

We promptly and accurately respond to any queries raised by the FTA during their review of your refund application.

Follow-up & Status Tracking

Our team proactively monitors your application status and liaises with the FTA as needed to expedite the process.

"Our team of tax specialists has successfully processed hundreds of VAT refund applications, recovering millions of dirhams for our clients across various industries."

Why Use Inlex for Your VAT Refund Claim?

Recovering VAT can be complex and time-consuming. Our specialized services offer clear advantages to ensure your refund claim is successful.

Maximize Recoverable Amount

Our deep understanding of UAE VAT law ensures you claim the full amount you're entitled to receive.

Ensure Accuracy & Compliance

Expert preparation significantly reduces the risk of claim rejection or delays due to errors.

Save Time & Effort

Outsource the complex and time-consuming refund process to specialists while you focus on your core business.

Navigate FTA Procedures

Leverage our experience with the FTA's systems and requirements to streamline the application process.

Expedite Cash Flow Recovery

Professional handling means faster processing and fewer queries, helping you receive your refund sooner.

Expert FTA Query Handling

Professional responses to FTA inquiries that may arise during the review process of your application.

Ready to recover your excess VAT?

Schedule a consultation with our VAT specialists to assess your potential refund opportunities.

VAT Refunds: Common Questions

Find answers to commonly asked questions about our comprehensive business solutions.

Who is eligible for a VAT refund in the UAE?
Any VAT-registered business with input tax exceeding output tax can apply for a refund. This typically includes exporters, companies with significant capital expenditure, businesses making zero-rated supplies, and specific business categories designated by the FTA.
How long does it take to receive a VAT refund in the UAE?
The FTA aims to process straightforward refund applications within 20 business days. Complex applications may take longer, especially if additional verification is required. With proper preparation, most clients receive their refunds within 8-12 weeks from application submission.
What documentation is required for a VAT refund application?
Required documentation typically includes VAT returns, tax invoices, import/export documentation, bank statements, accounting records showing the excess input tax, and any other supporting evidence requested by the FTA to validate your claim.
Can a business claim a VAT refund for past periods?
Yes, businesses can claim VAT refunds for past tax periods, subject to the 5-year statute of limitations. However, it's advisable to submit refund applications promptly after identifying excess input tax to optimize cash flow and minimize complexity.

Don't Leave Your VAT Refund Unclaimed - Recover Your Cash

Many businesses in the UAE are eligible for VAT refunds but don't claim them due to complex procedures or lack of awareness. Our tax experts can help you identify refund opportunities and manage the entire claim process.

Contact our VAT specialists directly:

Email Us

office@inlex-partners.com

Call Us

+971 52 956 8390

WhatsApp

+971 52 956 8390

Contact Us

Our experts are ready to help you

Need Consultation?