FTA Launches 'Maskan' Smart App for Paperless VAT Recovery on New Homes

The Federal Tax Authority (FTA) has unveiled its innovative 'Maskan' application, a key step in its digital transformation agenda, aimed at providing superior tax services in line with UAE government priorities.

This app is designed to facilitate UAE citizens in reclaiming Value Added Tax (VAT) on the construction of new homes through entirely paperless, digital procedures.

The FTA stated that 'Maskan' is part of a broader initiative to enhance digital services, reduce paperwork, and streamline service execution. This aligns with the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to modernize government services, eliminate bureaucracy, and offer cutting-edge integrated services.

'Maskan' is included in the federal government performance agreements for 2023-2024, positioning the UAE as a future-ready global hub for the new economy. This initiative supports the "We the UAE 2031" vision, promoting the nation as pioneering and advanced.

The app, designed to ensure efficient performance and user-friendly procedures, enables UAE citizens to swiftly recover VAT incurred on new home construction. The development involved consultations with citizens and suppliers, incorporating their feedback to refine the platform.

The application is being launched in two phases. The first phase, now active, allows users to create accounts, upload tax invoices, and submit refund requests digitally. The second phase, set to commence by the end of July 2024, will enable users to upload tax invoices by scanning barcodes from registered outlets, eliminating the need for physical invoices.

Khalid Ali Al Bustani, Director General of the FTA, emphasized that 'Maskan' aligns with the leadership's vision for a modern housing system, providing citizens with transparent, streamlined procedures to expedite VAT refunds. He highlighted the FTA's commitment to the government's digital strategy, ensuring sustainable, proactive, and innovative services.

Abdullah Al Bastaki, Executive Director of the FTA's Information Technology Sector, noted that 'Maskan' aligns with the "Zero-Government Bureaucracy (ZGB)" programme, aimed at enhancing public service efficiency and reducing service time by 50 percent. This initiative is part of the FTA's ongoing efforts to abolish redundant procedures and expedite service delivery.

News Source: Emirates News Agency