Do I need to register for VAT to rent out commercial property in the UAE?

Possibly. Leasing commercial property is a taxable activity, so the rental income counts toward the Federal Tax Authority's (FTA) VAT registration thresholds. If your taxable supplies and imports exceed the mandatory threshold you must register and charge 5% VAT on the rent; above the lower voluntary threshold you may choose to register. Once registered you issue tax invoices, file VAT returns and can recover input VAT. Renting existing residential property is generally exempt and does not, by itself, create the same obligation. Thresholds run on rolling turnover, so monitor your taxable income and confirm the current amounts with the FTA. Full guide: UAE commercial property VAT. You can compare verified UAE legal and tax professionals on LEXAI.