The UAE gives tourists a way to claim VAT refunds on their shopping. The Federal Tax Authority (FTA) makes this possible by using an advanced electronic system. Tourists can now enjoy shopping in the UAE and get part of their VAT back before leaving the country. This makes the UAE a better place for tourists who love to shop.
How Does the Tax Refund Scheme for Tourists Work in UAE?
Tourists can claim a tax refund when they buy things from stores in the UAE that are part of the tourist tax refund scheme. The FTA approved a company called Planet to run this system. Registered stores connect their sales to Planet’s electronic system.
When a tourist wants a refund, the shop assistant enters the tourist’s details, like a passport or GCC ID, into the system and adds a tax-free tag to the invoice. The tourist must keep this invoice. When leaving the UAE, the tourist will show it at the airport, seaport, or border for the refund process.
Steps to claim tax refund as a tourist:
- Buy from a store registered in the scheme.
- Show your passport or GCC ID at purchase.
- Ask for the tax-free tag on your invoice.
- Keep your invoice safe until you leave the UAE.
- Present the invoice and documents at a validation counter when departing.
Who Is Eligible to Get a Tax Refund in the UAE?
The FTA sets rules for tourist tax refunds. Only non-resident travelers aged 18 or above can claim the tax refund. Tourists must not work as crew on the flight leaving the UAE. GCC nationals can also claim the refund on their shopping.
A tourist must meet these conditions:
- Not live in the UAE.
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Show valid travel documents.
- Not be a member of the departing flight crew.
Which Goods Are Not Eligible for Tax Refunds?
Not all goods can get a VAT refund. Some things don’t qualify under the scheme.
Tourists can’t claim VAT refunds for:
- Vehicles, airplanes, or boats (any mode of transport)
- Goods that they eat, drink, or use in the UAE
- Items not with the tourist when leaving the UAE
Tourists must make sure their purchases are eligible before planning to claim a refund.
How Can a Tourist Claim a Tax Refund Before Leaving UAE?
The UAE provides tax refund counters at airports, seaports, and land borders. Tourists should go to these counters before departure. They must show the purchased products, tax-free invoices, passport, and sometimes a credit card.
A tourist can choose to get the refund in cash or on their card. Once the validation is done, the system processes the refund.
Required documents:
- Original invoice with a tax-free tag
- Passport or GCC ID
- Credit card (if needed)
- Purchased goods (to show at the counter)
Other Important Points for Tourist Tax Refunds
- Tourists can get 85% of the VAT they paid.
- The system operator (Planet) keeps 15% as an administration fee.
- There is a cash refund limit of AED 7,000 per day.
- No limit applies if the refund is credited to a card.
- Tourists must claim the refund before they leave the UAE.
Quick tips:
- Plan your shopping if you want the VAT refund.
- Keep all your tax-free invoices organized.
- Double-check which goods qualify for the refund.
How Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing Can Help Tourists and Businesses
Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing helps tourists and shops with all VAT and tax refund matters. Our team explains every tax rule. We prepare documents, talk to tax authorities, and help tourists claim their refunds without stress. We also guide shops to join the tourist refund scheme and follow FTA rules.
We know that “the early bird catches the worm,” so we help you solve tax problems before they grow.
- For more information, visit our office:
Saraya Avenue Building – Office M-06, Block/A, Al Garhoud – Dubai – United Arab Emirates - Or contact/WhatsApp: +971 50 276 2132
