TAX

Tax Alert – Accreditation of UAE e-Invoicing service providers

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The GCC region is undergoing a major digital transformation in tax administration, with the implementation of e-invoicing in KSA (in 2021), and in the UAE (from July 2026).

The UAE Ministry of Finance (MoF) recently released a Public Consultation paper on e-invoicing (to which Grant Thornton UAE responded) seeking feedback on the “data dictionary” and “use cases” to be implemented.

In a further significant development, the MoF have updated their website outlining the eligibility criteria and accreditation procedure for service providers under the Electronic Invoicing System. E-invoicing service providers are now invited to submit their applications via the Ministry of Finance's official website. The website also features a comprehensive step-by-step guide and Frequently Asked Questions to assist service providers throughout the process.

 

Key Points:

While this update is primarily directed at service providers, it highlights the imminent implementation of e-invoicing in the UAE and businesses are advised to start planning for e-Invoicing as soon as possible. The MoF appears to be on track to meet the July 2026 deadline for the first phase of implementation. The key takeaways as we move towards a more definitive scenario of e-invoicing implementation are as follows:

  • Submission Process: Service providers must submit their application to the MoF, demonstrating eligibility and readiness. This is followed by rigorous pre-approval testing, a production trial run, and pre-approval certification, ensuring accurate tax data reporting. The whole process timeline is estimated to be 90 working days.
  • UAE Trade License and Corporate Tax Registration: ASPs must be UAE-registered companies and registered for Corporate Tax, though VAT registration is not mandatory.
  • Eligibility Requirements: Applicants must hold Open Peppol membership and certification, have at least two years of experience in managing an Electronic Invoicing System, and meet specific financial and operational criteria.
  • Documentation: Submission of audited financial statements and ISO 22301 certification for business continuity is mandatory.

This accreditation process marks a significant advancement in the UAE's digital infrastructure, reinforcing the nation's commitment to innovation and efficiency in tax administration. Grant Thornton is proud to be part of this transformative journey, contributing to the development of a robust e-invoicing system that benefits businesses and the government alike.

For further details on how we can support you with e-invoicing, please contact Imran Mushtaq, Kabir Dhawan, Harsh Bhatia, and Gouban Gopal.