Crucially, the Federal Tax Authority's EmaraTax portal makes VAT Return Filing a digital process, but the questions it asks are precise and the supporting documents must match your licence exactly. VAT Return Filing is preparing and submitting quarterly or monthly VAT returns to the FTA, and it applies to all VAT-registered businesses. The most common businesses Icelanders open through GoldenKey are in seafood exports, aviation, geothermal technology and software, although VAT Return Filing supports almost any activity. As a rule, icelandic seafood and clean-energy know-how reach the Gulf through Dubai, which gives Icelandic entrepreneurs a ready market and supply chain the moment their VAT Return Filing licence is released.
Why VAT Return Filing
GoldenKey prepares the EmaraTax application for VAT Return Filing, uploads the paperwork and follows up with the FTA until the certificate is granted. Penalties for late VAT Return Filing or late filing start at fixed amounts and grow with delay, which is why GoldenKey diarises every deadline for its customers. In short, icelandic applicants benefit from the fact that VAT Return Filing already has many Icelandic shareholders on its register, so its officers recognise Iceland documents and name formats instantly.
Documents required
Gather these documents and GoldenKey will take care of the rest of vat return filing for Icelandic-owned companies.
- Memorandum of association showing shareholders
- Customs code and import records where applicable
- Turnover evidence such as invoices, contracts or financial statements
- Bank account letter or IBAN certificate
- Passport and Emirates ID of the authorised signatory
- Trade licence and certificate of incorporation
Pricing
The figures below for vat return filing for Icelandic-owned companies are updated by GoldenKey whenever the issuing authority changes its fees, so the price you see is the current one. Importantly, all prices for vat return filing for Icelandic-owned companies are indicative, shown in AED and confirmed in writing before you pay.
| GoldenKey service fee | AED 1,200 |
|---|
Preparation and submission of quarterly VAT returns to FTA
Request this servicePrices are indicative, in AED, exclusive of 5% VAT where applicable, and confirmed in writing before payment. Last updated 2026-10-07.
Why the UAE
In short, english is the working language of business, contracts are routinely drafted in English, and government portals are bilingual, which simplifies vat return filing for Icelandic-owned companies for international founders. The dirham has been pegged to the US dollar since 1997, which removes currency risk for vat return filing for Icelandic-owned companies and makes international pricing simple.
Why GoldenKey
Importantly, after your VAT Return Filing licence is released, the same team handles renewals, visa additions, amendments and tax registrations, so you never have to explain your business twice. For most clients, we will tell you plainly if VAT Return Filing is not the right choice for your plan and point you to a better option, even when that option costs less. GoldenKey's consultants have handled vat return filing for Icelandic-owned companies for traders, consultants, tech founders and family offices, which gives us a realistic view of what each authority approves fast.
On the ground, prefer to visit? Our Ajman office welcomes walk-ins during working hours, and we can also meet you in Dubai or Sharjah by appointment to discuss vat return filing for Icelandic-owned companies.
Frequently asked questions
What happens if I miss the VAT Return Filing deadline?
As we tell every client, late registration attracts a fixed penalty, and late filings add further penalties. If you are already late, GoldenKey can register you and advise on penalty reconsideration where grounds exist.
How long does VAT Return Filing take with the FTA?
In short, the FTA typically responds within 20 business days, and simple applications are often approved faster. GoldenKey submits a complete file to avoid information requests.
Does VAT Return Filing apply to a new company with no revenue yet?
For most clients, filing starts from the first tax period after registration, even if the return is nil.
Do Icelanders need a UAE visa before applying for VAT Return Filing?
No, it does not. You can apply for the licence from Iceland with scanned documents, and the investor residence visa is completed afterwards.
Can a Icelandic citizen own 100% of a company in VAT Return Filing?
Yes. Icelanders can own the full share capital of a VAT Return Filing company with no local partner, exactly like any other nationality.


