VAT Calculator UAE
UAE VAT is a flat 5% — the calculator part is easy. The part people get wrong is which way to calculate (adding VAT vs extracting it from a total) and when a business must register.
Total including VAT
AED 0
Enter an amount.
| Net (excl. VAT) | — |
| VAT 5% | — |
| Gross (incl. VAT) | — |
Frequently asked questions
When must a business register for VAT in the UAE?
Registration is mandatory once taxable supplies exceed AED 375,000 over the past 12 months (or expected 30 days), and voluntary from AED 187,500 — useful for reclaiming input VAT.
What's the difference between zero-rated and exempt?
Both charge 0% to the customer, but zero-rated businesses (exports, international transport, first supply of new residential property) can reclaim input VAT, while exempt ones (residential rent, bare land, local passenger transport, many financial services) cannot.
Is residential rent subject to VAT?
No — residential leases are exempt. Commercial rent and commercial property sales carry the standard 5%.
Can tourists reclaim VAT?
Yes — through the tax-free shopping scheme at participating retailers (minimum AED 250 per receipt), validated at the airport before departure; refunds return most of the VAT minus a processing fee.
How do I take VAT out of a total?
Divide the gross amount by 1.05 to get the net; the difference is the VAT. AED 1,050 gross → 1,000 net + 50 VAT. Multiplying the gross by 5% instead is the classic mistake — it overstates the VAT.
Sources
- VAT overview and thresholds — u.ae · Federal Tax Authority
Rules re-verified 8 August 2026.
Related tools
- UAE Corporate Tax Calculator — the other tax, on profit rather than sales.
- Business Setup Cost Calculator — before there's VAT, there's a license.