VAT Registration in the UAE

Get your business correctly registered for VAT with the Federal Tax Authority — mandatory or voluntary — and receive your Tax Registration Number (TRN) without errors or delays.

01The challenge

VAT has applied in the UAE since 2018 at a standard rate of 5%. Many businesses are unsure whether they must register, when, or how — and registering late, or with incorrect details, is one of the most common and costly early mistakes. It can trigger Federal Tax Authority (FTA) penalties before you have even filed your first return.

02What UAE law requires

VAT is administered by the Federal Tax Authority (FTA). Under UAE VAT law:

Registration is mandatory once taxable supplies and imports exceed AED 375,000 over the previous 12 months (or are expected to in the next 30 days).
Voluntary registration is available from AED 187,500 — useful for startups that want to reclaim input VAT.
On approval, the FTA issues your Tax Registration Number (TRN), which must appear on every tax invoice.
Applications are filed through the FTA EmaraTax portal with supporting documents — trade licence, owner IDs, financials and bank details.

Thresholds and requirements per the UAE Federal Tax Authority (tax.gov.ae).

03How Hudson & Nova helps

We take the guesswork — and the paperwork — off your plate:

Assess whether you must register (mandatory) or should (voluntary), based on your turnover.
Prepare and review every document the FTA requires.
Submit through EmaraTax and manage all FTA queries until your TRN is issued.
Set you up for correct VAT invoicing and your first return — so you start fully compliant.

Frequently asked

Do I have to register for VAT?

If your taxable turnover exceeds AED 375,000 in a 12-month period, registration is mandatory. Below that, you can register voluntarily from AED 187,500 — often worthwhile so you can reclaim input VAT.

How long does VAT registration take?

Once your documents are in order, the FTA typically issues a TRN within a few working days, though timelines vary. We handle any FTA queries to keep it moving.

What happens if I register late?

Late registration can lead to administrative penalties from the FTA. We assess your date of liability and register you promptly to minimise any exposure.

This page is general guidance based on current UAE regulations and is not a substitute for professional advice. Contact Hudson & Nova for advice specific to your business.

Ready to register for VAT?

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