VAT Refund for Businesses in UAE
Recover the VAT paid on eligible business expenses — we handle your VAT refund claim from start to finish, maximising your recovery from the FTA.
What Is a VAT Refund?
As a VAT-registered business in the UAE, you charge output VAT on your sales and pay input VAT on your purchases. When your input VAT exceeds your output VAT in a given tax period, you are entitled to claim the difference back from the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) as a VAT refund.
Who Can Claim a VAT Refund?
- VAT-registered businesses whose input VAT exceeds output VAT in a tax period
- Businesses making predominantly zero-rated supplies (e.g. exporters)
- Businesses in their start-up phase with high initial purchase costs
- Businesses that have overpaid VAT due to an error on a previous return
- Foreign businesses and tourists (subject to specific FTA schemes)
What Expenses Are Eligible for VAT Refund?
Office Supplies & Equipment
Computers, printers, furniture, stationery, and other office equipment used for business operations.
Business Services
Marketing, legal, consultancy, accounting, and other professional services directly related to your business.
Raw Materials & Inventory
Materials and stock required for manufacturing, production, or resale in your business activities.
Business Travel
Hotels, transportation, and business meals incurred during travel for business purposes.
Import VAT
VAT paid at customs on goods imported into the UAE for use in your business operations.
Capital Assets
VAT on machinery, vehicles, and other capital assets purchased for business use.
Note: Expenses for personal use or entertainment are not eligible for VAT recovery.
How the VAT Refund Process Works
Why Choose Finhub Middle East?
Maximise Your Refund
We identify every eligible input VAT claim to ensure you recover the maximum amount from the FTA.
Error-Free Claims
Incorrect claims are a common reason for FTA rejection. Our team ensures your return and refund request are accurate.
End-to-End Support
From preparing the return to following up with the FTA — we handle the entire refund process on your behalf.
Frequently Asked Questions
The FTA typically processes VAT refund claims within 20 working days. Complex claims or those requiring additional documentation may take longer.
Yes. VAT paid at UAE customs on imported goods used for business operations can be recovered through your VAT return as input tax.
The FTA will provide a reason for rejection — common reasons include missing documentation, ineligible expenses, or errors in the return. We assist with corrections and appeals to get your claim approved.
Yes. Excess input VAT can be carried forward to offset future VAT liabilities. This is sometimes more efficient than waiting for a refund — we advise the best approach based on your cash flow needs.
While you can file yourself, errors or missed claims are common. Our team ensures your refund claim is accurate, complete, and maximised — reducing the risk of rejection or audit.
Claim your VAT refund from the FTA — we handle everything.
Free consultation. FTA-registered agents. WhatsApp us now.
