The Federal Tax Authority has introduced the ‘Maskan’ application to streamline the VAT recovery process for UAE citizens. The first phase, already rolled out, allows citizens to recover the VAT they paid on construction of their new homes using a paperless, digital process. In the upcoming second stage, more features will be introduced to enhance the efficiency and speed of the process.
The second phase of the ‘Maskan’ application is expected to be launched before the end of July 2024. This phase will allow citizens to scan a barcode from the app to upload tax invoices from registered outlets directly to their account. The digital platform is designed to offer simple and clear procedures for citizens to recover the VAT they incurred on the construction of their homes.
The launch of the ‘Maskan’ digital platform is part of the FTA’s commitment to implementing the government’s vision of establishing a modern housing system for UAE citizens. The platform aims to provide transparent and streamlined procedures to expedite the refund process for taxes paid on construction. It aligns with the government’s digital strategy for smart transformation and enhancing user experience.
The ‘Maskan’ application is a part of the FTA’s continuous development plans to provide innovative services that meet user expectations and align with the aspirations of smart city residents. It aims to offer renewed opportunities for sustainable development and well-being for UAE citizens. The application will significantly enhance citizen satisfaction with the VAT refund service for home construction.
The FTA’s participation in the Zero-Government Bureaucracy (ZGB) program demonstrates its commitment to enhancing efficiency in public services. The program seeks to accelerate the implementation of Zero Bureaucracy through strong partnerships with the private sector. The FTA will continue to streamline its services to reduce bureaucracy and enhance customer experience.
The ‘Maskan’ application is expected to contribute to the UAE’s vision for 2031 by propelling the country towards becoming a global hub for the new economy. The application’s features, such as unified login with UAE PASS, personal QR code generation, and automatic VAT calculation, aim to enhance the competitiveness of the UAE across all sectors. The FTA aims to eliminate unnecessary government procedures and reduce service duration to enhance citizen satisfaction.
