VAT Reconsideration
in Dubai
When an FTA decision, assessment, or penalty looks wrong, we build the reconsideration case and file it within the 40 business day window.
YEARS OF UAE FINANCIAL EXPERIENCE
- 40 Business Day Filing
- Arabic Submission Handled
- TDRC Escalation Ready
What a Well-Built Case Can Change
The FTA can fully waive, partially reduce, or uphold a decision. The quality of the request is what moves that outcome.
A Penalty That Can Be Reduced
A reconsideration request supported by proper evidence and legislative grounds can result in a full waiver or partial reduction of the disputed amount.
No Filing Fee to Weigh Against It
The FTA processes reconsideration requests at no cost, so the only real cost of not challenging a wrong decision is the penalty itself.
Your Objection Formally on Record
A properly filed request creates a documented challenge to the FTA's decision under Article 29 of Federal Decree-Law No. 28 of 2022, not just an informal query.
An Escalation Path That Stays Open
If the FTA upholds its decision, a well-documented first request makes the follow-up case to the Tax Disputes Resolution Committee stronger, not a fresh start.
What Goes Into the Request
The work between receiving an FTA decision and having a complete case filed against it.
Grounds Assessment
Reviewing the FTA decision to identify whether it rests on a factual error, a misapplied provision, or a procedural issue worth challenging.
Evidence Compilation
Gathering the invoices, contracts, correspondence, and bank statements that support the factual position being argued.
Justification Letter Drafting
Writing the case in Arabic, since the FTA requires submissions and supporting documents in Arabic, with certified translations for anything originally in another language.
Legislative Referencing
Citing the specific VAT law provisions the decision should be measured against, not just describing the disagreement.
EmaraTax Submission
Filing the request through the portal with the decision reference number, within the 40 business day deadline from the original decision date.
TDRC Escalation
Preparing the follow-up objection to the Tax Disputes Resolution Committee if the FTA upholds its original decision, including the payment step that gate requires.
Cases Built on Grounds, Not Grievance
Ahmed Mahfoudh Chartered Accountants & Auditors reviews the FTA decision first to work out which grounds actually apply, factual error, misapplied law, or procedure, before a single document is drafted. The justification letter goes in Arabic with the legislative references the FTA expects, backed by the evidence that supports it. For a Dubai business contesting a decision, that's what separates a request the FTA can act on from one it simply rejects on form.
Where Reconsideration Requests Fail
Most rejected requests aren't wrong on the merits, they're wrong on the deadline, the language, or the paperwork.
We Treat the 40 Business Day Deadline as Fixed
Extensions are only granted for documented serious circumstances such as illness, death, or force majeure, not workload. We file within the window rather than relying on an extension that likely won't be granted.
The Submission Goes in Arabic the First Time
The FTA requires Arabic submissions and certified Arabic translations of any foreign-language evidence. A request filed in English risks delay or rejection on form alone.
Every Argument Is Tied to a Legal Ground
A request that just disagrees with the outcome reads differently to the FTA than one that cites the specific provision the decision misapplied. We build the case on the latter.
We Prepare for Escalation From the Start
If the FTA upholds its decision, the case moves to the Tax Disputes Resolution Committee, which requires the disputed tax paid in full first. We flag that requirement early so it isn't a surprise later.
Who Builds Your Case
Accountants who assess the grounds and prepare your reconsideration request directly.
Sameh Abdalla
CEO & Founder
Sami Abdallah leads the firm with expertise in accounting, audit, tax advisory, and consulting. He provides strategic guidance and supports long-term business growth across the UAE.
Ahmed Mahfoudh
Audit Manager
Ahmed Mahfoudh manages audit assignments and financial reviews with a focus on accuracy, compliance, and risk assessment. He delivers clear insights to strengthen financial control.
Ahmed Elbadawi
Legal Manager
Ahmed Elbadawi provides legal guidance, contract management, and compliance support. He helps protect business interests, reduce risks, and ensure smooth legal operations.
Ahmed Samir
Tax Manager
Ahmed Samir specializes in UAE VAT, corporate tax, and compliance services. He supports businesses in managing tax obligations while improving financial efficiency and compliance effectively.
What Dubai Businesses Say
Feedback from finance leads we've represented in FTA reconsideration requests.
“Their VAT reconsideration service helped us challenge an FTA assessment successfully. The request was presented clearly and the outcome reduced the additional tax and penalties significantly.”
“Facing an unexpected VAT decision was stressful until this team stepped in. The reconsideration request was strong and the process felt organised throughout.”
“Professional and detailed handling of our VAT reconsideration. The FTA position was analysed carefully and a well-supported request submitted.”
“I needed help responding to an FTA VAT decision and received exactly that. The support was structured, accurate, and calm under pressure.”
“Practical assistance preparing and submitting a VAT reconsideration request. The documentation was complete and helped us achieve a better outcome than expected.”
“Reliable, precise, and professional. The full process was managed with care and delivered a successful result.”
VAT Reconsideration Questions
What Dubai businesses ask before challenging an FTA decision.
How long do I have to file a reconsideration request?
40 business days from the date of the original FTA decision. Extensions are only granted for documented serious circumstances, not workload or oversight.
How long does the FTA take to respond?
Up to 45 business days from the date it receives your completed request, though complex cases can take longer.
Is there a fee to file?
No. The FTA processes reconsideration requests free of charge.
Does the request need to be in Arabic?
Yes. Submissions and supporting documents must be in Arabic, with certified translations for anything originally in another language.
What decisions can be reconsidered?
Late filing penalties, late payment penalties, VAT assessment adjustments, and registration refusals, among other FTA decisions, under Article 29 of Federal Decree-Law No. 28 of 2022.
What happens if the FTA rejects my request?
You can escalate to the Tax Disputes Resolution Committee within 40 business days of the reconsideration decision, but the disputed tax must be paid in full before that objection is filed.
What documents does a strong request need?
A copy of the FTA decision, proof of the notification date, a factual explanation with legislative references, and any supporting evidence such as invoices, contracts, or correspondence.
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