VAT implementation in Dubai has significantly impacted businesses, requiring compliance with tax regulations. The system’s significance lies in streamlining revenue generation for the government and enhancing transparency in financial transactions. Rewind Consultancy is a well-known name when it comes to VAT accounting services, offering expert guidance and support to businesses across the UAE.

Outsourcing VAT accounting to Rewind Consultancy ensures adherence to regulations, minimises errors, and maximises tax efficiency. This partnership allows businesses to focus on their core operations while entrusting their financial compliance to experienced professionals, ultimately fostering growth and sustainability.

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What are the Types of VAT Accounting?

Flat Rate Scheme: It applies a fixed VAT rate on turnover rather than calculating VAT on each transaction.

Margin Scheme: Applies VAT only to the difference between the selling and purchase prices of second-hand goods, works of art, or antiques. It is mainly levied on businesses dealing in second-hand goods.

Retail VAT Accounting: This is especially true for retail businesses, where VAT is calculated on the difference between sales and purchases within a specific period.

Retail VAT Accounting: This is especially true for retail businesses, where VAT is calculated on the difference between sales and purchases within a specific period.

Special VAT Accounting Schemes: Some industries or sectors may have special accounting schemes tailored to their specific needs. Examples include real estate, construction, and financial services, each with unique VAT accounting requirements.

What is the VAT Rate in the UAE?

VAT in UAE is charged as per the different categories such as –

Standard Category: Automobiles, fuel, jewellery, electronic items, food and beverages, apparel, entertainment services, hotels and restaurants, construction, etc.

Zero Category: The export of goods and services, international transportation of passengers and goods, supply of certain means of transport, supply or import of investment precious metal with a purity of 99% or more, and residential buildings, among many other things.

Exempted Category: VAT are exempted from financial services, certain residential buildings, bare land, etc.

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Zero Category: The export of goods and services, international transportation of passengers and goods, supply of certain means of transport, supply or import of investment precious metal with a purity of 99% or more, and residential buildings, among many other things.

Exempted Category: VAT are exempted from financial services, certain residential buildings, bare land, etc.

Important Documents Required for VAT Accounting Dubai

To commence with the VAT accounting in Dubai, businesses must submit the following documents –

Tax Invoices: Issued for all taxable supplies made by the business, including details such as the seller’s name and address, buyer’s name and address, VAT registration number, invoice number, unit price, date of supply, description of goods or services, quantity, and the total amount payable.

Purchase Invoices: Received for all taxable supplies purchased by the business, containing similar details as tax invoices issued by suppliers.
VAT Returns: Periodic declarations submitted to the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) detailing taxable sales, purchases, output VAT collected, input VAT paid, and the net VAT liability or refund.

Purchase Invoices: Received for all taxable supplies purchased by the business, containing similar details as tax invoices issued by suppliers.
VAT Returns: Periodic declarations submitted to the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) detailing taxable sales, purchases, output VAT collected, input VAT paid, and the net VAT liability or refund.

Import and Export Documentation: Customs declarations, shipping documents, bills of lading, and import/export invoices for goods traded internationally are necessary for determining VAT treatment on imports and exports.
Credit Notes and Debit Notes: Issued in case of adjustments to previously issued invoices, reflecting changes in the amount or quantity of goods or services supplied, which may impact VAT calculations.
Accounting Records: General ledger, sales ledger, purchase ledger, cash book, bank statements, and other financial records maintained by the business, providing a comprehensive overview of transactions for VAT reporting and compliance purposes.

Why Do You Need VAT Accounting in Dubai?

Legal Compliance: VAT accounting is mandatory for businesses meeting the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) threshold in Dubai. Failure to comply with VAT regulations can result in penalties, fines, or legal action. Therefore, maintaining accurate VAT accounting records ensures adherence to the law.

Tax Liability Determination: VAT accounting helps businesses calculate their tax liability accurately. By tracking taxable supplies, purchases, input VAT, and output VAT, businesses can determine the amount of VAT they owe to the government. This ensures proper tax reporting and payment, minimising the risk of underpayment or overpayment.

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Tax Liability Determination: VAT accounting helps businesses calculate their tax liability accurately. By tracking taxable supplies, purchases, input VAT, and output VAT, businesses can determine the amount of VAT they owe to the government. This ensures proper tax reporting and payment, minimising the risk of underpayment or overpayment.

Input Tax Recovery: VAT accounting enables businesses to reclaim input VAT paid on purchases and expenses related to their taxable activities. Proper documentation and accounting records are necessary to support input tax recovery claims. Failing to maintain adequate records can result in missed opportunities for reclaiming input tax, leading to higher costs for the business.

Business Decision-Making: Effective VAT accounting provides valuable insights into a business’s financial health and performance. By analysing VAT accounting data, businesses can identify trends, assess profitability, and make informed decisions regarding pricing, resource allocation, and investment strategies. Accurate VAT accounting also facilitates budgeting and forecasting processes, enabling businesses to plan for growth and expansion.

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How Rewind Consultancy Can Help With VAT Accounting?

Rewind Consultancy is Dubai’s best VAT consultancy firm that provides comprehensive accounting and auditing services. Our team of competent VAT consultants makes your VAT Accounting procedure simple and cost-effective. We ensure the timely delivery of the VAT report. In addition –

  • We offer customised advise
  • We help you with VAT planning
  • We update you with FTA’s new rules
  • We maintain the books or records and balance sheet carefully
  • We help you maintain the necessity for the Reverse Charge Mechanism

Whether you are looking for due diligence, auditing services, or CFO services, contact Rewind Consultancy for comprehensive accounting and business services in the UAE.

Whether you are looking for due diligence, auditing services, or CFO services, contact Rewind Consultancy for comprehensive accounting and business services in the UAE.

FAQ

How often do I need to file VAT returns in Dubai?
VAT returns in Dubai are typically filed on a quarterly basis, although some businesses may be required to file monthly returns based on their turnover or other factors. Companies must ensure timely and accurate filing of VAT returns to avoid penalties for late submission or non-compliance.

Non-compliance with VAT regulations in Dubai can result in penalties, fines, or legal consequences imposed by the Federal Tax Authority (FTA). Businesses failing to maintain accurate VAT accounting records or report and pay VAT as required may face financial penalties or legal action.

The standard VAT rate in Dubai is 5%, which applies to most goods and services. Certain goods and services may be subject to zero-rate (0%) or exempt from VAT. Businesses need to ensure they apply the correct VAT rate to their transactions based on the nature of the goods or services supplied.
Businesses meeting the mandatory registration threshold or opting for voluntary registration can register for VAT through the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) online portal. The registration process involves providing business details and documentation and completing the form.

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