VAT Return Filing Due Date in UAE
In this guide, we’ll explain the difference between a due date and a deadline for UAE VAT Return, how the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) determines your filing schedule, penalties for late submissions, examples of VAT due dates in the UAE, and practical tips to ensure you never miss a date plus how Unicorn Global Solutions (UGS) can help.
Difference Between Due Date & Deadline
Many business owners use the terms due date and deadline interchangeably, but in VAT compliance, they have slightly different meanings:
Due Date – This is the official last day by which you must submit your VAT return to the FTA via the EMARATAX portal.
Deadline – While similar, the deadline usually refers to the exact time on the due date (often by midnight UAE time) when the submission and payment must be completed.
Example:If your File VAT Return UAE due date is 28th April 2024, your deadline is 28th April 2024 at 11:59 PM. Submitting even a minute later can trigger a penalty.
How FTA Determines the Due Date for Your Business
The Federal Tax Authority (FTA) assigns a tax period to each VAT-registered business based on its annual turnover:
Monthly Filing – For businesses with an annual turnover above AED 150 million. Returns are due by the 28th day of the following month.
Quarterly Filing – For businesses with an annual turnover below AED 150 million. Returns are due by the 28th day after the quarter ends.
The FTA may also assign specific filing periods to certain businesses based on their nature of operations.
Penalties for Late Filing
Failing to meet your VAT return filing due date can result in costly fines under FTA rules. Here’s a breakdown:
First Late Submission Fine:Â AED 1,000
Second Late Submission (within 24 months):Â AED 2,000
2% of the unpaid VAT immediately after the due date
4% monthly penalty on the outstanding amount, starting from one month after the due date
Up to a maximum of 300% of the tax due
These penalties apply in addition to any VAT owed, making timely filing critical.
Examples of VAT Return Filing Dates in UAE
Quarterly Filing (Annual Turnover Below AED 150M)
Q1 (Jan–Mar): Due by 28 April 2024
Q2 (Apr–Jun): Due by 28 July 2024
Q3 (Jul–Sep): Due by 28 October 2024
Q4 (Oct–Dec): Due by 28 January 2025
Monthly Filing (Annual Turnover Above AED 150M)
May 2024 Return:Â Due by 28 June 2024
June 2024 Return:Â Due by 28 July 2024
Best Practices to Never Miss the VAT Return Filing Due Date
To avoid penalties for late filing of VAT returns, follow these tips:
Set Automated Reminders – Use accounting software or calendar apps.
Prepare Documents Early – Gather invoices, customs documents, and bank statements in advance.
Assign a Compliance Officer – Have someone responsible for tax filing.
Use Professional Services – Partner with VAT consultants to ensure accurate and timely submissions.
Due Date Monitoring by UGS
At Unicorn Global Solutions (UGS), we offer end-to-end VAT compliance support. Our team:
Monitors your VAT return filing date and sends reminders
Prepares accurate VAT 201 forms for submission
Advises on VAT refunds and adjustments
Helps you avoid costly penalties
We ensure your business stays fully compliant with UAE VAT laws so you can focus on growth while we handle the deadlines.
Due Date Monitoring by UGS
At Unicorn Global Solutions (UGS), we make sure you never miss a vat return filing deadline. Our team tracks your due dates, files your returns on time, and ensures full compliance with UAE VAT laws. Whether you need quarterly or monthly filing, our experts handle everything – from record checks to payment submissions. At Unicorn Global Solutions, we simplify the process for you.  Unicorn Global Solutions is here to help! Text us on whatsApp  or call us today .
