Understanding VAT Refund for Expo 2020 Participation
When a company joins Expo 2020 Dubai, it spends money on many goods and services during the event. UAE law gives Expo participants the right to claim a VAT refund on those eligible expenses. The participant should follow the law in every step for tax compliance.
The government made this VAT refund process to help official participants reduce their costs. Every participant must plan carefully with respect to VAT, so the process becomes simple and smooth for them.
What Expenses Qualify for VAT Refund for Expo 2020?
Participants can claim VAT refund on these expense categories:
- Costs for building up and changes made to the exhibition space after planning
- Costs for running the exhibition space or organizing any presentations/events inside Expo 2020 site
- Operating expenses when VAT reclaim amount is more than AED 200
- Costs spent on joining Expo 2020 as a participant
- Personnel expenses for allowed staff and beneficiaries defined by FTA
Everyone should check the law and see if their expenses fall under any of these categories before making a claim.
What Is Certificate of Entitlement? Why Do Participants Need It?
If a participant wants to claim VAT refund under the above categories, they must get a Certificate of Entitlement. The Bureau of Expo 2020 Dubai issues this certificate. The participant should fill out a special application form with all documents required.
- Only official Expo 2020 participants with a valid Expo license can receive this certificate
- Not more than 20% of the exhibition space can be used for commercial or non-official activities
- The certificate is necessary before claiming VAT refund
The rules are clear about who can claim and under what conditions.
Steps to Claim VAT Refund for Expo 2020 Dubai
The steps for claiming a VAT refund are different for UAE VAT registered and unregistered participants:
- If Registered for UAE VAT:
The participant can claim the refund by including eligible expenses in their regular VAT returns. - If Not Registered for UAE VAT:
The participant must submit a special VAT refund application to the Bureau of Expo 2020 Dubai.
If a company makes taxable supplies or imports above AED 375,000, then VAT registration with FTA becomes mandatory.
Documents Required to Claim VAT Refund
Participants should keep these documents safe for their VAT refund claim:
- Expo 2020 license
- Certificate of Entitlement (for those who need it)
- Valid tax invoices and supporting documents for all amounts claimed
- Customs documents for goods imported
- Proof of employment and relationship with staff/beneficiaries
- Bank account validation letter (for refunds)
Sometimes, the Bureau or FTA may ask for more documents during their review. Keeping everything ready helps avoid delays.
How Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing Can Help You With VAT Refunds
Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing brings valuable experience in handling Expo 2020 compliance and VAT refunds. The expert team helps with:
- Getting an Expo license and VAT registration
- Checking if input tax recovery is allowed
- Applying for Certificate of Entitlement
- Preparing and filing VAT returns
- Submitting VAT refund applications
- Handling correspondence with authorities
- Completing documentation on time
When a participant chooses Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing, they get trusted advice for all Expo 2020 VAT matters.
How Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing Can Help You
When you need help with your Expo 2020 VAT refund, you shouldn’t beat around the bush!
Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing gives you expert guidance for your Expo VAT compliance.
- Get help with license and VAT registration
- Check eligibility for input tax refund
- Prepare and submit Certificate of Entitlement
- File VAT returns and refund applications
- Communicate with government offices for you
- Complete your paperwork quickly
For more information:
- Visit our office: Saraya Avenue Building – Office M-06, Block/A, Al Garhoud – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
- Contact/WhatsApp: +971 50 276 2132
