Complete VAT Registration Guide UAE 2025
Everything you need to know about VAT registration in UAE. Requirements, process, documents, and step-by-step guide for VAT registration Dubai and UAE-wide.
What is VAT Registration in UAE?
Value Added Tax (VAT) registration is mandatory for businesses in the UAE that meet specific revenue thresholds. VAT was introduced in the UAE on January 1, 2018, at a rate of 5%. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about VAT registration in UAE 2025.
Key Information
VAT registration is mandatory for businesses with annual revenue exceeding AED 375,000. Voluntary registration is available for businesses with revenue between AED 187,500 and AED 375,000.
VAT Registration Requirements
Mandatory Registration
You must register for VAT if your business meets any of the following criteria:
- Annual revenue exceeds AED 375,000
- Expected revenue to exceed AED 375,000 in the next 30 days
- Business activities are subject to VAT
Voluntary Registration
You can voluntarily register for VAT if:
- Annual revenue is between AED 187,500 and AED 375,000
- You want to claim input VAT on business expenses
- You plan to expand and expect to exceed the threshold
Required Documents for VAT Registration
Business Documents
- • Trade license
- • Memorandum of Association
- • Articles of Association
- • Business registration certificate
- • Emirates ID copies
Financial Documents
- • Bank statements (last 12 months)
- • Financial statements
- • Sales invoices
- • Purchase invoices
- • Business plan
VAT Registration Process
Step-by-Step Process
Prepare Documentation
Gather all required documents including trade license, financial statements, and identification documents.
Create FTA Account
Register on the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) portal and create your business account.
Complete Application
Fill out the VAT registration application with accurate business information and financial data.
Submit Application
Upload all required documents and submit your application to the FTA for review.
Receive VAT Certificate
Once approved, you'll receive your VAT registration certificate and TRN (Tax Registration Number).
VAT Registration Timeline
Important Timeline
You must register for VAT within 30 days of meeting the registration threshold. Late registration can result in penalties of up to AED 20,000.
- Application Processing: 20-30 business days
- Document Review: 5-10 business days
- Certificate Issuance: 2-5 business days after approval
- Effective Date: Usually the first day of the month following approval
VAT Registration Costs
FTA Fee
Free
No fee charged by FTA
Professional Service
AED 1,200
Complete registration service
Late Registration
AED 20,000
Maximum penalty for late registration
Common VAT Registration Mistakes
Avoid These Common Mistakes
- • Missing or incomplete documentation
- • Incorrect business classification
- • Inaccurate financial information
- • Missing Emirates ID or passport copies
- • Incorrect business address information
- • Not registering within 30 days of threshold
Post-Registration Requirements
After receiving your VAT registration certificate, you must:
- Display your TRN on all invoices
- Maintain proper VAT records for 5 years
- File VAT returns quarterly or monthly
- Pay VAT due within 28 days of period end
- Notify FTA of any business changes
VAT Registration for Different Business Types
Sole Proprietorship
- • Emirates ID required
- • Trade license
- • Bank statements
- • Business activity description
Limited Liability Company
- • Memorandum of Association
- • Articles of Association
- • Board resolution
- • Manager's Emirates ID
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I register for VAT?
You must register within 30 days of meeting the AED 375,000 annual revenue threshold or when you expect to exceed it in the next 30 days.
Can I register voluntarily?
Yes, businesses with annual revenue between AED 187,500 and AED 375,000 can register voluntarily for VAT.
What is a TRN?
TRN (Tax Registration Number) is your unique VAT identification number issued by the FTA. It must be displayed on all invoices.
How long does registration take?
The complete process typically takes 20-30 business days, including document review and certificate issuance.
Need Professional Help?
Our expert team can handle your complete VAT registration process, ensuring accuracy and compliance. We offer professional VAT registration services for AED 1,200.