How do I integrate my ERP with e-invoicing requirements in the UAE?

Integrating an ERP with UAE e-invoicing means connecting the existing accounting or enterprise system to a UAE Accredited Service Provider (ASP) that can process and exchange invoices according to the UAE framework.

The ERP does not necessarily need to be replaced. Instead, businesses generally need to map the data already held in their ERP to the UAE's required electronic invoice structure. This includes supplier and buyer information, invoice details, transaction values, VAT information, tax categories, and other required data.

The UAE uses a five-corner DCTCE model. The five corners are the supplier, the supplier's ASP, the buyer's ASP, the buyer, and the FTA.

The supplier submits its e-invoice data to its ASP in an agreed format. The supplier's ASP validates the data and converts it into the UAE standard XML format if required. It then transmits the e-invoice to the buyer's ASP. In parallel, the supplier's ASP reports the relevant Tax Data Document (TDD) to the FTA.

The buyer's ASP validates the received e-invoice and, once successfully processed, delivers it to the buyer in an agreed format. The buyer's ASP also reports the relevant TDD to the FTA. The system then returns the relevant message-level status information through the network.

Complyance can provide the e-invoicing layer between an existing ERP or accounting system and the UAE network, helping with data mapping, validation, exchange, and compliance processing.

Key points

• The UAE uses a 5-corner DCTCE model.
• Existing ERP systems can generally be retained.
• ERP invoice data must be mapped to the UAE requirements.
• The supplier's ASP exchanges the invoice with the buyer's ASP.
• Tax Data Documents are reported to the FTA.
• Complyance can provide the integration layer between ERP and e-invoicing.