Who is eligible for VAT refunds in UAE?

Tourists and visitors who purchase goods from registered retailers and leave within 90 days.

How do I claim VAT refund?

Use kiosks at airports or ports, submit required documents, and choose cash or card refund.

Is there a time limit for exporting goods?

Yes, goods must be exported within 3 months from purchase.

Can I claim refund on all purchases?

Only purchases from FTA-approved retailers and eligible goods qualify for refund.

Is there a refund limit?

No limit for card refunds, but cash refunds are capped at AED 10,000 per day.

VAT Refund Scheme for Tourists in UAE 🥇

VAT Refund Scheme for Tourist Visa Holders in UAE

Good news for visitors! Tourists in the UAE can now claim VAT refunds for purchases they make during their stay. This benefit is part of the government’s “Tax Refund for Tourists Scheme.” Upon departure, tourists can reclaim VAT easily through fully automated kiosks installed at airports, seaports, and border ports across the country.

How the System Works

The new electronic system connects registered retailers directly with all entry and exit points. Tourists simply need to use the kiosk, scan their documents, and get refunds either in cash or credited to their card. Planet, the global operator, manages the refund system.

Key Dates and Applicability

Only tax invoices issued on or after 18 November 2018 qualify for VAT refunds.
Goods must be purchased from retailers registered under the scheme.

Conditions to Claim VAT Refund

Tourists must meet the following requirements:

Leave the country within 90 days of purchase.
Purchase from FTA-approved retailers.
Ensure goods are not excluded from the refund scheme.
Export goods within 3 months of purchase as per FTA procedures.

Where and How to Claim Refund

Tourists can claim refunds at:

Dubai International Airport
Al Maktoum International Airport
Abu Dhabi International Airport
Ras Al Khaimah, Sharjah, and other UAE airports
UAE seaports and border ports

Process:

Submit tax invoices, passport, and card details at the kiosk.
Kiosk verifies eligible purchases automatically.
Receive refund in AED cash or transfer it to credit card.

Refund Amount Limits

AED 10,000 per day maximum for cash refunds.

No limit on refunds credited to card.

Benefits of Tourist VAT Refund

Enhances UAE tourism experience.
Makes shopping more attractive for visitors.
Encourages spending at approved retailers.
Improves UAE’s image as a global shopping hub.

What Can Help – Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing

Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing helps tourists and retailers understand FTA requirements for VAT refunds. Our experts guide you through the process, help register retailers, and ensure smooth compliance. After all, a stitch in time saves nine!

For more information visit our office: Saraya Avenue Building – Office M-06, Block/A, Al Garhoud – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Or contact/WhatsApp us: +971 50 276 2132