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The Federal Tax Authority (FTA) has brought several important tax-related matters into focus during its second Emirates Majalis community session in Dubai, providing UAE Nationals with an opportunity to raise questions, share concerns and receive direct clarification from the Authority.
Held at Al Barsha Majlis on 22 October 2026, the meeting addressed three key areas: the role of Emirati Tax Agents in the UAE tax system, VAT refunds for residential construction by UAE Nationals, and support for Emirati entrepreneurs operating small and medium-sized businesses.
The discussions reflect the importance of direct engagement between the FTA and the community, particularly in helping individuals and business owners better understand tax procedures and the support available to them.
Published: 11 November 2026 | Category: Tax Updates & Compliance
Key Tax Topics Discussed During The FTA Meeting
The session, attended by His Excellency Abdulaziz Al Mulla, Director General of the Federal Tax Authority, provided a platform to discuss tax matters affecting UAE Nationals.
The following topics were highlighted during the meeting:
1. The Role of Emirati Tax Agents
One of the subjects discussed was the role of Emirati Tax Agents and their contribution to the development of the UAE tax system.
The discussion highlighted the importance of Emirati professionals within the tax sector and their role in supporting the country’s tax administration.
2. VAT Refunds for Residential Construction
Another key topic concerned VAT refunds for UAE Nationals who incur Value Added Tax (VAT) expenses when constructing their residences.
The meeting addressed the procedures for recovering VAT related to residential construction, an important matter for eligible UAE Nationals seeking to understand the applicable refund process.
Understanding the relevant procedures and requirements can help applicants navigate their refund requests more effectively.
3. Support for Emirati Entrepreneurs
The session also covered support for UAE National entrepreneurs who own small and medium-sized businesses.
This discussion focused on the needs of Emirati business owners and the importance of providing guidance to help them understand their tax-related responsibilities and navigate the UAE tax system.
Direct Responses To Community Enquiries
Beyond the main discussion topics, attendees raised questions and highlighted challenges they had encountered when completing tax transactions and dealing with related procedures.
The FTA’s specialised teams responded directly to these enquiries, providing explanations and support.
This direct interaction allowed participants to discuss practical concerns with the Authority and seek clarification on matters affecting them.
Why These Discussions Matter
The topics raised during the meeting are relevant to different segments of the UAE community.
For UAE Nationals constructing their homes, understanding VAT refund procedures can help them navigate the applicable requirements. For Emirati professionals, discussions about Tax Agents highlight their place within the country’s tax sector. Meanwhile, guidance for Emirati entrepreneurs can support greater awareness of tax responsibilities when operating a business.
These discussions also give the FTA an opportunity to understand the challenges faced by individuals and businesses, helping identify areas where procedures and services can be improved.
Continuing The Emirates Majlis Initiative
The meeting formed part of the FTA’s Emirates Majalis initiative, launched under the slogan “Closer to Each Other” to strengthen communication between the Authority and the community.
The FTA confirmed that further sessions would take place across the UAE during October and November 2026.
The announced schedule included:
- 24 October 2026: Salem bin Loutia Al Ameri Majlis in Al Ain.
- 27 October 2026: Al Rahmaniya Suburb Council in Sharjah.
- 3 November 2026: Hilal Zayed Al Shehhi Majlis in Abu Dhabi.
Through these sessions, the Authority aims to maintain an open channel for feedback, enquiries and constructive discussions on tax-related matters.
Conclusion
The FTA’s second Emirates Majalis session highlighted several important matters affecting UAE Nationals, particularly VAT refunds for residential construction, the role of Emirati Tax Agents and support for local entrepreneurs.
By addressing these subjects directly with the community, the Authority continues to encourage greater tax awareness and identify opportunities to improve its services and procedures.
For individuals and business owners, staying informed about relevant tax requirements remains essential to understanding their responsibilities and making use of applicable services.
This article is intended for general informational purposes only. The matters discussed are based on the Federal Tax Authority’s announcement. Applicable tax treatment, eligibility and procedures remain subject to the relevant UAE tax legislation and FTA requirements.
