The United Arab Emirates has approved a major revision of its value-added tax executive regulations under Cabinet Decision No. 149 of 2026. The amendments affect input VAT recovery calculations, payment mechanisms, composite supply structures, and transaction documentation. Most of the revised provisions take effect on October 1, 2026.
A recent joint crackdown in Dubai seizing 17 tankers has brought renewed attention to UAE environmental penalties ranging from Dh500 to Dh10 million. Federal and local frameworks penalise improper industrial and hazardous waste disposal with fines up to Dh1 million, rising to Dh10 million for serious nuclear-related violations. In Dubai, specific municipal regulations impose penalties up to Dh500,000 for waste infractions and Dh100,000 for illegal wastewater discharge.
The UAE Cabinet has issued Cabinet Decision No. 149 of 2026, amending Cabinet Decision No. 52 of 2017 on the Executive Regulation of Value Added Tax. The updates introduce statutory criteria for composite supplies, modify input tax recovery on employee accommodation and medical supplies, and restrict deductions on cash transactions exceeding specific thresholds. Most provisions take effect on 1 October 2026, with input tax apportionment rules applying from the first tax year starting after 1 October 2027.
Dubai Customs has extended the customs duty suspension period on eligible declarations by 60 days, bringing the total suspension period to 180 days. The provision covers duty suspension arrangements expiring between 27 February 2026 and 31 October 2026. Eligible categories include re-export goods, temporary admissions, and transit shipments.
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