Don't let your VAT credits expire
Before 2026, businesses could carry excess VAT forward indefinitely. Under the amended VAT law, a credit that is neither used against VAT payable nor claimed as a refund within 5 years is lost permanently. Credits from the early years of UAE VAT need urgent attention.
What our VAT refund service includes
- Reconciling your VAT credit balance, period by period
- Checking that input VAT is recoverable and backed by valid tax invoices
- Preparing the refund application and supporting documents
- Responding to FTA requests for information
- Tracking the expiry date of each VAT credit
31 December 2026 deadline
If your business has carried VAT credits forward from the early years of VAT, some may lapse at the end of 2026. Contact us for a free review of your credit balance.
Documents required for VAT refund
- VAT returns for the periods being claimed
- Purchase tax invoices and import documents
- Sales invoices and credit notes
- Bank statements and proof of payment to suppliers
- Bank account details for the refund (IBAN letter)
How VATAXSYS handles your VAT refund
Credit review
We reconcile your VAT credits and check which are close to expiring.
Evidence check
We confirm the invoices and records behind the claim are in order.
Refund application
We prepare and submit your VAT refund request on EmaraTax.
FTA follow-up
We answer FTA queries until the refund is decided.
VAT Refund FAQs
How do I claim a VAT refund in the UAE?
VAT-registered businesses with excess recoverable VAT submit a refund request through EmaraTax, supported by invoices and records. The FTA reviews the request and may ask for more information.
Do VAT credits expire in the UAE?
Yes. From 1 January 2026, excess recoverable VAT must be used or claimed within 5 years from the end of the tax period in which it arose, or the right to recover it lapses.
How much does a VAT refund claim cost?
Our fee depends on the size of the refund and the volume of documents involved. We review your case first and confirm a fixed fee before starting.
Can the FTA reject a VAT refund?
Yes, if the input VAT is not properly supported or the purchase is linked to tax evasion. That is why we check the evidence before submitting.