The UAE Federal Tax Authority is enacting tighter VAT regulations effective October 1. Tax authorities now hold the power to deny VAT refund claims if transactions are linked to tax evasion across the supply chain under a 'should have known' standard.
UAE expatriates switching employers can temporarily place their dependants' residence visas on hold instead of cancelling them, provided the job transition occurs within the same emirate. The procedure requires a refundable security deposit of AED 5,000 and must be concluded within a 60-day window to avoid forfeiting the funds. Applications are processed through Dubai's GDRFA or the federal ICP platform depending on the jurisdiction.
The UAE General Budget Committee held its 15th meeting to discuss the draft federal budget for the 2027–2029 fiscal period. Officials reviewed preliminary expenditure estimates, revenue forecasts, tax legislation alignment, and the government's 2026 financial position. Directives were issued to complete drafting procedures and assess funding requests for new strategic projects.
The UAE has established compliance timelines for its mandatory electronic invoicing system, requiring large firms to appoint an Accredited Service Provider by October 30, 2026. Entities failing to appoint an approved provider within the statutory deadlines face monthly administrative penalties of Dh5,000. Phased mandatory go-live dates run from January 1, 2027 through October 1, 2027.
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