5 percent VAT comes into effect on 1 January 2018 across applicable telecom products and services  

Abu Dhabi, 21 December 2017:  Etisalat announced starting 1 January 2018, it will start collecting VAT with a standard rate of 5 per cent on behalf of the government, which will be added on applicable products and usage of its services 

This complies with the Federal Decree-Law No 8 of 2017 issued by the government on the introduction of Value Added Tax (VAT) in the UAE. 

Etisalat is taking all efforts to be ready and compliant for the new law coming into effect and provide complete information to all customers and its effect in the future. Etisalat has already started contacting all customers to increase awareness and provide clarity on the introduction of VAT. 

The UAE leadership’s vision is to build a diversified and sustainable economy and the new tax system aims to support the economic development in the country enabling it to compete with world’s most advanced economies. With Etisalat taking a major step towards a great future, it is making sure that transparency is maintained by taking all necessary measures in educating customers on the new government directives regarding VAT and its impact on their telecom services.

Etisalat has taken necessary steps in communicating all detailed information on all its platforms and also answer any queries regarding the implementation of VAT on its products and services.

As mandated by the UAE Federal Tax Authority, 5 percent VAT will be added to applicable telecommunications products and services effective from January 1, 2018. For postpaid customers, 5 percent VAT will be added on the monthly bill, while prepaid customers will continue to recharge as usual. The 5 percent VAT will apply on the actual usage of the credit towards Etisalat services and not on the prepaid recharge cards value.