This Public Clarification clarifies the UAE VAT treatment of passively earned bank interest and dividend income. It establishes that since this income is generated without an active supply—from merely depositing money or holding shares—it does not constitute consideration for a supply. Consequently, both bank interest and dividend income are considered outside the scope of VAT and should not be reported on VAT returns. The clarification distinguishes this treatment from interest earned on loans or credit, which are exempt financial services under Article 42 of the Executive Regulations. It also notes that management fees remain taxable.
VATP010
VAT Public Clarification
Bank Interest and Dividends
Issue
A VAT registered person may earn interest income by depositing money in a bank account or by holding fixed deposits, recurring deposits, or any other similar bank deposit. In addition, a VAT registered person may earn dividend income by holding shares in a company.
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