Since the introduction of Value Added Tax (VAT) in the UAE on 1 January 2018 at a standard rate of 5%, it has become imperative for businesses of all sizes to remain fully compliant. Filing VAT returns is not merely a regulatory burden—it is the mechanism by which you report VAT collected (output VAT) and VAT paid (input VAT) to the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) via the VAT 201 form. Any mis‑step—whether in data entry, reverse charge transactions, or emirate‑wise supply splits—can lead to costly penalties or audits
This is where professional VAT filing services in UAE and a trusted team of VAT consultants in Dubai come into play: at DKK, we provide end‑to‑end support so you can file with confidence.
Decoding VAT Compliance: Registration, Periods, and Data Requirements
Who is Mandatorily Required to Register and File?
- Mandatory registration: Businesses with taxable turnover exceeding AED 375,000 per annum must register for VAT.
- Voluntary registration: Businesses whose supplies or expenses exceed AED 187,500 may choose to register—in particular to enable input VAT recovery.
- Once registered, you must file periodic returns and maintain full records.
Tax Periods and Statutory Deadlines
- Standard filing period: Typically quarterly (every three months).
- Monthly filing: For businesses whose annual taxable supplies exceed AED 150 million.
- Submission deadline: Returns must be submitted by the 28th day of the month following the end of the tax period. Late submissions trigger penalties.
Essential Information for the VAT 201 Form
Completing the VAT 201 form successfully requires accurate data, including:
- Total sales, purchases, imports and exports.
- Reverse charge transactions (imported services/goods treated as domestic supply).
- Emirate‑wise supply reports (e.g., Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah) as required by FTA rules.
- Classification of supplies into taxable, zero‑rated and exempt.
- Calculations of input VAT / output VAT and net tax due or refundable.
Failing any of these may result in mis‑filing or audit triggers.
Avoiding FTA Penalties: The Financial Risks of Non‑Compliance
Understanding the consequences of non‑compliance underscores the value of engaging “vat return filing consultants” and professional help.
Penalties for Late Filing and Failure to Maintain Records
- Late filing: AED 1,000 for the first default; AED 2,000 for a repeat offence within 24 months.
- Failure to maintain required transaction records: AED 10,000. You must keep VAT records for a minimum of five years.
- Voluntary disclosure (to rectify errors): AED 3,000 for the first disclosure; AED 5,000 for the second.
Severe Penalties for Late Payment of Tax Due
- Late payment of tax begins with a 2% penalty per month immediately after the deadline.
Fines for Registration Delays
- Late VAT registration: AED 10,000.
- Failure to deregister in time: AED 10,000.
Given these risks, it’s no wonder that businesses seek out reliable VAT services in Dubai to avoid exposure.
Don’t leave your business vulnerable. Book your free VAT compliance review with DKK now and avoid these hefty penalties.
Why Outsource VAT Return Filing to a Tax Agent in Dubai
As your trusted Dubai business advisors and VAT compliance specialists, DKK offers the following advantages:
Guaranteed Accuracy and Compliance
We ensure that all filings are aligned with FTA requirements—including reverse charge entries, emirate‑wise supplies, and correct classification of zero‑rated vs. exempt transactions. With our expert team, you get peace of mind that your filings are correct.
Cost and Resource Efficiency
Maintaining an in‑house VAT compliance team means salaries, training, software licences, and oversight. Outsourcing allows you to access expert “vat filing consultation services” at a predictable cost, freeing you to focus on business growth.
Audit‑Ready Record Keeping
We implement robust processes, dual verification checks, and maintain audit‑ready bookkeeping—so if the FTA inspects, you’re prepared.
Scalable Support
Whether you’re filing quarterly or monthly, reclaiming input VAT through the VAT 311 form or managing voluntary disclosures, our services scale with you. As part of our broader advisory role, we integrate with other service lines like accounting and business setup.
Comprehensive Tax and Accounting Support
- VAT Refund Claims: We assist with the VAT 311 form for reclaiming excess input VAT.
- VAT Consultancy: Guidance on applying the correct rate—standard, zero‑rated or exempt.
- Technology Integration: If you use accounting tools like Tally, Zoho Books or Xero, we integrate VAT compliance seamlessly.
Competitive Pricing and Getting Started
At DKK, we believe in transparent, fair pricing. Our “vat services in Dubai” packages start from AED 100/month (based on invoice volume) or AED 300/quarter, depending on complexity. We are a registered tax‑agent firm with over a decade of experience in UAE tax compliance.
How to get started:
- Book a Free Consultation – Our team of “vat return filing consultants” will assess your situation and propose a tailored plan.
- Engagement – Sign our service agreement and provide your transactional data.
- We Process & File – We prepare your VAT 201 form, handle any queries, and submit on time.
- Ongoing Support – Quarterly/monthly filing, record maintenance, and responsive advisory.
Also, for businesses needing a broader advisory scope, check our Business Advisory Services in Dubai page for strategic support beyond VAT compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
1: What are the penalties for late payment?
Late payment of tax begins with a 2% penalty per month immediately after the deadline.
2: How long do I need to keep VAT records?
A minimum of five years is required by the FTA to ensure audit‑readiness.
3: What is the difference between zero‑rated and exempt supplies?
- Zero‑rated supplies: taxed at 0% but allow input VAT recovery.
- Exempt supplies: not taxed and do not allow input VAT recovery.
4: Can I claim a VAT refund in Dubai?
Yes. Businesses with excess input VAT can submit the VAT 311 form. Our vat filing consultation services assist with end‑to‑end refund claims.
5: Do you cover all Emirates?
Yes – while we operate from Dubai, our compliance services span all Emirates including Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, ensuring full UAE coverage.
Why Choose DKK as Your VAT Partner?
- A leading team of vat consultants in Dubai with deep expertise in FTA regulations and UAE tax law.
- Recognised business advisors providing comprehensive support—not just VAT but accounting services, audit prep and business setup.
- A client‑centric approach: responsive service, transparent pricing, and measurable results.
- Full compliance guarantee: we help you avoid the common pitfalls, keep you audit‑ready, and ensure timely filing.
Ready to protect your business and achieve compliance? Contact DKK today