Understanding the Maskan App: How UAE Nationals Can Claim VAT Refunds on New Homes
Since the implementation of Value Added Tax (VAT) in the UAE in 2018, many citizens have sought clarity on whether VAT applies when constructing a personal residence. The encouraging news is that UAE nationals who build their own homes may be entitled to claim back the VAT paid on certain construction-related expenses.
This refund typically covers costs such as building materials, contractor fees, and approved professional services used during the construction process.
To make the refund process more convenient and accessible, the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) introduced the Maskan App a secure and intuitive digital platform designed specifically for UAE nationals. Through the Maskan App, users can easily submit refund claims, upload supporting invoices, and track their application status in real time.
What was once a paperwork-heavy and time-consuming procedure has now become streamlined, transparent, and efficient. The app eliminates unnecessary delays and ensures that eligible UAE nationals can reclaim their VAT refunds swiftly and conveniently.
Why UAE Nationals Need the Maskan App?
Before the introduction of the Maskan App, claiming a VAT refund for newly constructed homes in the UAE was often a complex and time-consuming process. Previously, homeowners had to navigate a manual, paperwork-intensive system, which often confused the required documents, submission procedures, and follow-up processes. Consequently, delays were common, and refund claims were frequently rejected due to missing information, errors, or non-compliance with technical requirements.
The Maskan App has completely transformed this experience. With just a few taps on a smartphone, UAE nationals can now easily track construction-related expenses, upload VAT invoices, and submit refund claims through a guided, step-by-step process. The app not only simplifies the entire journey but also brings greater transparency and efficiency to it. Most importantly, it empowers citizens by putting them in direct control of their tax entitlements, ensuring they can reclaim the VAT they’re rightfully owed without unnecessary stress or delays.
Who Can Use the Maskan App?
The Maskan App is designed exclusively for UAE nationals who have personally funded the construction of their own residential properties. It’s not intended for developers, investors, or those building homes for commercial use, rental income, or resale. To be eligible, the property must be used strictly as a private residence for the applicant or their immediate family. The app ensures that only those who meet these specific conditions can access the VAT refund benefits.
To use the Maskan App, you’ll need a few key documents and credentials, including:
For many homeowners, this initiative goes beyond simplification — it’s a meaningful financial relief, allowing them to recover substantial amounts spent on their dream homes.
At CLA Emirates, we assist clients in reviewing eligibility, preparing documentation, and submitting refund claims under the FTA’s guidelines to ensure a smooth process from start to finish.
If you’re planning to build your home or have recently completed construction, our VAT specialists can help you navigate the refund process effectively and maximize your eligible recovery.
- A valid UAE Pass for secure and authenticated login
- Proof of property ownership, such as a title deed or land registration
- Original construction-related invoices showing clearly itemized VAT amounts
- A valid Emirates ID to verify your national identity
Meeting these criteria ensures a smooth application process and increases the chances of a successful VAT refund claim.
VAT Refund for New Homes: What’s Covered?
When applying for a VAT refund through the Maskan App, it's important to understand which expenses are eligible for reimbursement. The refund primarily covers costs directly related to the construction of a new residential home. These include construction materials such as cement, bricks, and steel; contractor fees for labour and construction services; consulting services like engineering, architectural design, and supervision; equipment hire used during the building process; and finishing work, including tiling, painting, and plumbing. These are all considered essential components of building a habitable residence.
However, not all expenses are eligible. Items like furniture, home electronics, appliances, and landscaping, such as garden design or outdoor lighting, typically fall outside the scope of the VAT refund. These are seen as personal or decorative additions, rather than necessary construction elements. Being aware of what qualifies and what doesn’t helps ensure your application is accurate and increases the likelihood of a successful refund.
How the Maskan App Works: A Step-by-Step Breakdown?
The Maskan App is designed to make the VAT refund process for newly built homes as simple and efficient as possible. Here’s how it works, step by step:
- Log in using UAE Pass
Start by securely logging into the app using your UAE Pass, ensuring both fast access and protection of your personal data.
- Create Your Refund Claim File
Once logged in, you’ll need to set up your project by entering key details such as your plot number, property location, and uploading your completion certificate to verify that construction is finished.
- Add Invoices from Suppliers
You can upload VAT invoices manually by scanning or photographing them or use the barcode system if your supplier is integrated with Maskan. This links the invoice directly to your refund claim.
- Link Suppliers
For added convenience, suppliers can scan your unique project barcode within the app, which automatically attaches their invoice to your file—reducing errors and paperwork.
- Track Cumulative Expenses
As you add more invoices, the app will automatically calculate your total eligible expenses and give you an estimate of how much VAT you can expect to be refunded.
- Submit for Review
Once all relevant documents and invoices are uploaded and verified, simply submit your claim through the app. It will then be forwarded to the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) for review and approval.
This digital process saves time, reduces mistakes, and gives you full visibility over your refund status—all from the convenience of your smartphone.
Using UAE Pass with Maskan
The Maskan App is fully integrated with UAE Pass, the UAE’s official national digital identity system. This integration allows users to securely access the app without the hassle of creating separate usernames or remembering multiple passwords. With just a few taps, UAE nationals can log in using their verified UAE Pass credentials, ensuring a seamless and efficient experience. Beyond convenience, UAE Pass also provides top-level security, protecting sensitive personal data and ensuring that only eligible users can access and manage their VAT refund claims. This integration reinforces the government's commitment to smart, secure, and user-friendly digital services.
Documents Needed for Maskan VAT Refund Claims
To successfully apply for a VAT refund through the Maskan App, UAE nationals must gather and submit a specific set of documents that verify both their identity and the details of their construction project. These documents are essential for the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) to review and approve the refund. Here's what you need to prepare:
- Emirates ID – A valid Emirates ID is required to confirm your identity and UAE nationality.
- Building Permit – Issued by your local municipality, this proves that you were authorized to begin construction.
- Completion Certificate – This document confirms that construction is finished and the home is ready for use.
- All Tax Invoices Related to Construction – These must clearly show the supplier’s TRN (Tax Registration Number), itemized costs, and VAT amount.
- IBAN Certificate – A stamped certificate from your bank showing your account number, used for transferring the approved refund.
- Title Deed or Proof of Ownership – Demonstrates that you legally own the property or land where the home was built.
Having these documents ready in advance will streamline your application and reduce the chances of delays or rejections during the refund process.
Timeline for Refund Approvals
The processing time for VAT refund claims through the Maskan App is significantly faster than traditional, manual methods. If all required documents are correctly submitted and no additional information is needed, most applications are reviewed and processed within 20 business days. This streamlined timeline is made possible by the app’s digital workflow, which reduces paperwork, minimizes errors, and allows for quicker verification by the Federal Tax Authority (FTA). However, delays may occur if documents are missing, incomplete, or require further clarification, so ensuring accuracy from the start is key to a smooth and timely refund.
Benefits of Using the Maskan App
The Maskan App offers a range of advantages that make the VAT refund process for UAE nationals faster, easier, and more secure than ever before. One of the most notable benefits is its significantly faster processing time compared to traditional manual submissions, helping users receive their refunds more quickly. The app also features real-time invoice tracking, allowing homeowners to monitor their submitted expenses and stay updated on their claim status. Its intelligent design reduces documentation errors by guiding users through each step of the process and ensuring that all required fields are properly completed. With a user-friendly interface, even first-time users can navigate the app with ease. Finally, secure login through UAE Pass ensures that all personal and financial information is protected, offering peace of mind alongside convenience.
How Maskan Fits into the UAE’s Future Vision?
The Maskan App is more than just a tool for claiming VAT refunds; it represents a key step in the UAE’s broader push toward a smart, digitally empowered future. Developed by the Federal Tax Authority (FTA), the app is part of a wider series of smart government initiatives aimed at enhancing service delivery, reducing paperwork, and improving the overall citizen experience. Maskan aligns closely with Dubai’s Digital Strategy and the Federal Government’s e-Transformation goals, both of which emphasize the use of advanced technology to streamline public services and promote sustainable innovation. By making critical services like VAT refunds more accessible and efficient, the app demonstrates the UAE’s ongoing commitment to citizen well-being, transparency, and digital excellence, cornerstones of the nation’s vision for the future.
At CLA Emirates, we understand the importance of accuracy and compliance when submitting VAT refund claims through the Maskan App. Our dedicated VAT specialists are here to guide you through every step from assessing eligibility and preparing documentation to submitting the refund claim and ensuring timely approval.
CLA Emirates will assist you in facilitating a smooth and successful Maskan VAT refund process, ensuring you receive the refund you are entitled to.
