What is VAT ? VAT (Value Added Tax) is one of the most common types of consumption tax found around the world. Over 150 countries have implemented VAT. VAT is a tax which is applicable at each point of sale where value has been added, from beginning to the end user. So it is levied at each stage in the chain of production with the provision of a set-off for the tax paid at earlier stages in the chain. VAT, as a general consumption tax, will apply to the majority of transactions in goods and services. A limited number of reliefs may be granted. However, it is expected that only utilities like healthcare and education may be exempted from the tax. The VAT rate is expected to be low at around 5%. In particular, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) plans, on 1 January 2018, to implement VAT. What will be exempt from the tax? The UAE government has already announced that 100 food items, health, education, bicycles, and social services would be ex...