VAT Services by Solvico Advisory
Solvico Advisory delivers end-to-end Value Added Tax (VAT) solutions for businesses across Dubai and the UAE, managing tax compliance, audit representation, and risk mitigation. Our advisory team helps mainland companies and free zone entities navigate the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) regulatory framework with precision and commercial clarity
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VAT Registration
UAE VAT registration is mandatory for a resident business where the value of its taxable supplies and imports exceeded AED 375,000 during the previous 12 months, or is expected to exceed this threshold within the next 30 days. Businesses may also apply for voluntary VAT registration where taxable supplies and imports, or taxable expenses, exceed AED 187,500 during the previous 12 months or are expected to exceed this threshold within the next 30 days.
Our advisors manage the end-to-end EmaraTax VAT registration process, including eligibility assessment, documentation review, application submission and follow-up with the FTA until the VAT registration is completed.
| Registration Type | Qualification Threshold | Objective |
|---|---|---|
| Mandatory Registration | Taxable supplies and imports exceeding AED 375,000 | Meet VAT registration obligations and avoid applicable penalties |
| Voluntary Registration | Taxable supplies and imports or taxable expenses exceeding AED 187,500 | Enable VAT registration and recovery of eligible input tax |
| VAT Tax Group | Eligible related UAE legal entities meeting the applicable conditions | Consolidate VAT reporting under a single TRN and generally disregard qualifying intra-group supplies |
VAT Consulting & Compliance
Solvico Advisory provides practical VAT support to help businesses manage their ongoing FTA compliance obligations.
VAT Penalties & Compliance Support
Administrative penalties may arise from late registration, delayed VAT return filing, late payment, incorrect filings and other compliance failures. Solvico Advisory helps businesses identify potential exposure, correct compliance issues and prepare appropriate submissions or Voluntary Disclosures where applicable.
Value Added Tax (FAQS)
What is the standard VAT rate in the UAE?
The standard VAT rate in the UAE is 5%, generally applicable to taxable supplies of goods and services, subject to specific zero-rating and exemption provisions.
When must a UAE VAT return be filed?
VAT-registered businesses must generally submit their VAT return to the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) within 28 days from the end of each Tax Period, or by any other deadline specified by the FTA. VAT returns and any VAT payable must be submitted and settled through the EmaraTax portal within the prescribed timeframe.
How do VAT rules apply to Free Zone companies?
Free Zone companies are generally subject to UAE VAT rules. Certain Designated Zones may receive special VAT treatment for qualifying transactions, subject to applicable conditions.
How long must businesses retain VAT records in Dubai?
Businesses must generally retain VAT records for at least 5 years from the end of the relevant Tax Period. Records relating to real estate may be subject to a 15-year retention period.
VAT Assessment Review & Appeals (UAE)
When the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) issues an assessment, penalty notice, or audit adjustment you disagree with, you have formal rights to challenge the decision. Our Dubai tax advisors prepare evidence-backed, Arabic-language submissions and manage each stage of the dispute process—from FTA reconsideration to the Tax Disputes Resolution Committee (TDRC) and, where eligible, Federal Court appeals.
We focus on building technically sound cases that address the FTA’s reasoning, correct factual errors, and apply the law accurately to your transactions.
What we handle
When an appeal may be worthwhile
Common viable grounds include incorrect VAT treatment of supplies; misapplied zero-rating or exemptions; disallowed input VAT without proper basis; penalties that are disproportionate or procedurally flawed; and assessments that overlook submitted evidence or rely on incorrect facts.
Important to know
- Deadlines are strict. Missing a 40‑business‑day window can make an assessment final.
- TDRC admissibility: typically requires a prior FTA reconsideration and payment of the disputed tax (or an acceptable guarantee).
- Court threshold: appeals to the Federal Courts are available where the disputed amount exceeds AED 100,000, subject to applicable conditions.
- No guaranteed outcomes: results depend on facts, evidence, and applicable law.
Process & Timelines
How we work with you
- Rapid start: we begin document collection and timeline mapping immediately to protect deadlines.
- Arabic-first drafting: all submissions are prepared in formal Arabic to meet statutory requirements.
- End-to-end filings: we submit via EmaraTax and MoJ portals and provide acknowledgment receipts and hearing packs where applicable.
Contact Solvico Advisory today to schedule a consultation with our Dubai tax advisors, review your VAT compliance standing, or initiate a formal appeal.