The UAE’s Federal Tax Authority (FTA) confiscated around 8.45 million non-compliant excise products during the first six months of 2026 as part of a nationwide campaign targeting tax violations, illicit trade and consumer protection.
Authorities conducted approximately 103,680 inspection visits across the Emirates between January and June, marking a 21% increase compared with about 86,000 inspections during the same period in 2025.
The FTA said the seized goods were linked to more than Dh174 million in outstanding tax liabilities and administrative penalties.
Tobacco products represented the largest share of confiscated goods, with around 6.58 million packages seized. Inspectors also removed approximately 1.87 million packages of other excise products, including carbonated drinks, energy beverages and sweetened drinks.
Although the overall number of seized products was lower than the 17.6 million recorded during the first half of 2025, authorities significantly increased inspection activity across local markets.
The enforcement campaign also identified businesses that had failed to meet Value Added Tax registration requirements. The FTA issued 3,343 VAT registration notices during the period, compared with 2,845 notices a year earlier.
Inspection teams assess whether businesses issue compliant tax invoices, display tax-inclusive prices and correctly account for taxes on goods sold in the market.
Federal Tax Authority officials said the campaigns are also aimed at reducing the circulation of counterfeit, smuggled and poor-quality products while strengthening compliance with the UAE's tax framework.
The authority continues to coordinate with federal and local government entities through information-sharing systems, monitoring technology and logistical support to improve enforcement across the country.
The FTA said inspections will remain focused on improving tax compliance, protecting consumers and preventing illegal or non-compliant products from reaching UAE markets.
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