VAT Refund Program for Tourists in UAE
The Federal Tax Authority (FTA) made VAT refunds easy for tourists since 2018. The process started as a tax-free shopping scheme for visitors. The system worked electronically with kiosks and refund operators at airports. Tourists bought goods, validated bills at kiosks, and got refunds fast.
Now, in December 2024, FTA launched the world’s first fully digital VAT refund system for e-commerce shopping. Tourists can shop online and get VAT refunds through an entirely paperless system. This program is a milestone for UAE in smart tourism and digital innovation.
What Changed: From In-Store to E-Commerce Refunds
Earlier, tourists bought goods worth AED 250 or more in stores. A tax-free tag was issued, and validation happened at the airport before departure. Refund was around 85% of VAT after deducting service charges. The process was already electronic and simple.
Today, the system also covers e-commerce shopping. When tourists shop online, they scan passports and provide details during checkout. A digital receipt is issued. Refund validation happens at delivery or at exit points. Now, the entire experience is online, paperless, and fast.
Why the New Refund System Matters
UAE positioned itself as a tax-friendly nation by linking VAT refunds with e-commerce. By June 2025, more than 18,410 retail outlets are in the system, up from 17,720 in 2024. Around 96 self-service kiosks are active at airports and malls.
This helps tourists in many ways:
- They shop in stores or online and get refunds.
- They avoid paper receipts and long queues.
- They track refunds through digital portals.
- They get cash or card refunds directly.
Key Features of VAT Refund for Tourists
FTA introduced digital features that simplify every step.
- Fully Digital System – From shopping to refund, every step is electronic.
- Shopper Portal – Tourists access invoices, status, and refunds through links or QR codes.
- Multiple Refund Methods – Refunds are available in cash, credit, or debit cards like Visa, MasterCard, Amex, and UnionPay.
- Quick Processing – Exit time per transaction now takes about two minutes.
Tourist Eligibility for VAT Refund
To qualify for VAT refund in UAE, tourists must meet the criteria:
- Must be non-UAE residents and at least 18 years old.
- GCC residents with foreign residency may qualify.
- Purchases must be from FTA-registered outlets or online partners.
- Goods must be exported within 90 days of purchase.
- Minimum spend must be AED 250 per transaction.
How Tourists Can Claim Refunds
Steps are easy to follow:
Step 1: Shop in FTA-approved stores or e-commerce portals. Provide passport details at checkout.
Step 2: Collect a tax-free tag for in-store shopping or get a digital invoice for e-commerce.
Step 3: At exit, validate purchases at kiosks or counters. For e-commerce, validate at delivery or exit.
Step 4: Choose your refund method – cash or card. Refund is about 85% of VAT, after service fees.
Extra Benefits for Tourists
- Extended Retail Network: Over 18,410 outlets now registered.
- Fast Exit: Two-minute processing at kiosks.
- E-Commerce Inclusion: Online shopping refunds included.
- Full Tracking: Shopper portal provides complete transparency.
Role of Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing in VAT Refunds
Tourists enjoy VAT refunds easily, but businesses often need professional help in VAT compliance. This is where Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing supports them.
We assist companies in VAT registration, refund applications, corporate tax filings, and compliance reviews. Our experts simplify the tax framework, so businesses focus on growth while we handle tax obligations.
If you’re a business planning to serve tourist clients with VAT benefits, Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing is the trusted partner in UAE.
What Can Help You?
Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing can guide your business in VAT and tax compliance. Our services ensure error-free refund applications and smooth processes.
- Tax registration and filing support
- VAT refund application management
- E-commerce VAT compliance advice
- Corporate tax assistance
- Professional audit and consulting services
👉 Remember, success in business is like striking while the iron is hot!
đź“Ť Contact Information
For more information:
- Visit our office: Saraya Avenue Building – Office M-06, Block/A, Al Garhoud – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
- Call/WhatsApp: +971 50 276 2132
