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Filing your return is only half the job — the tax still has to reach the FTA on time, because late payment carries its own penalties separate from late filing. So it's worth knowing exactly how the FTA lets you pay, and how long each method takes to clear.
Right now there are two options on EmaraTax: card payment and GIBAN bank transfer. That's it — no "buy now, pay later" services like Tabby, and no instalment plans for routine VAT or Corporate Tax dues.
Option 1
Card payment — instant
You can pay directly on EmaraTax by card. It's the fastest route: the payment is taken immediately, so it's the safest choice when you're close to a deadline. The trade-off is that card limits and processing fees can apply, which makes it less practical for very large amounts.
Option 2
GIBAN bank transfer — allow 2–3 days
Every taxable person is assigned a unique GIBAN — a dedicated IBAN for paying the FTA. You make a normal bank transfer to that GIBAN, quoting the correct reference, and the FTA allocates it to your liability. It's ideal for larger amounts, but it is not instant: a standard transfer can take around 2–3 days to reflect on your FTA account.
✅ Need it same day? Use an exchange house
If a deadline is tight and you're paying by GIBAN, some exchange houses — such as Al Ansari — can process the transfer to the FTA the same day, rather than the 2–3 days a standard bank transfer may take. A useful option when timing is critical and the amount is too large for a card.
Side by side
Card vs GIBAN at a glance
| Card | GIBAN (bank transfer) | |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | Instant | ~2–3 days (same-day via some exchanges) |
| Best for | Smaller amounts, last-minute payments | Larger amounts |
| Watch out for | Card limits / processing fees | Clearing time; quoting the correct reference |
| Used for | VAT & Corporate Tax | VAT & Corporate Tax |
⚠️ Quote the exact GIBAN and reference — and the exact amount
For GIBAN payments, use the correct GIBAN and reference number and pay the exact amount against it. Quoting the wrong details means the FTA can't reliably allocate your payment, which can lead to it being treated as unpaid — and late-payment penalties. If you need to pay a different amount, generate a new reference number for it.
2
Payment methods: card & GIBAN
2–3 days
Typical GIBAN clearing time
Same day
Possible via some exchanges
The takeaway
Don't let the payment miss the deadline
- Paying at the last minute? Use a card for instant settlement, if the amount allows.
- Paying a large amount by GIBAN? Start 2–3 days early so it clears in time — or use a same-day exchange route if you're tight.
- Always double-check the reference Quote the exact GIBAN, reference and amount so the FTA allocates it correctly.
- Remember there's no instalment option The full amount is due — there's no Tabby or pay-later for routine VAT/CT dues.
Late filing and late payment are two different penalties. Filing on time but paying a GIBAN transfer that clears a day late still counts as late payment — plan the payment, not just the return.
We'll keep your filing and payment on track
We prepare and file your VAT and Corporate Tax returns and flag exactly what's payable and by when — so the payment clears on time, whichever method you use.
Related services
Quarterly
VAT Filing
Accurate VAT returns filed on time, with a clear figure to pay and the deadline to pay it by.
Learn more →
Annual
Corporate Tax Filing
Your Corporate Tax return prepared and filed, with your payable amount and due date confirmed.
Learn more →
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
What payment methods does the FTA accept for VAT and Corporate Tax?
Two: card payment on EmaraTax, and GIBAN bank transfer. There is currently no instalment or "buy now, pay later" option (such as Tabby) for routine VAT and Corporate Tax payments.
How long does a GIBAN payment take to reflect?
A standard bank transfer to your GIBAN can take around 2–3 days to show on your FTA account. Some exchange houses, such as Al Ansari, can process it the same day if you're close to a deadline.
Is card payment instant?
Yes — paying by card on EmaraTax settles immediately, which makes it the safer choice for last-minute payments, subject to card limits and any processing fees.
Can I pay my UAE tax in instalments or via Tabby?
No. For routine VAT and Corporate Tax dues there's no instalment plan or pay-later service. The full amount is payable by card or GIBAN.
What happens if I quote the wrong GIBAN reference?
The FTA may not be able to allocate your payment correctly, which can result in it being treated as unpaid and late-payment penalties applying. Always quote the exact GIBAN, reference and amount, and generate a new reference if you're paying a different amount.
This article is for general information only and does not constitute tax advice. FTA payment methods and clearing times can change; always confirm the current options on EmaraTax. For help with filing and payment, contact Fastlane Consultancy.