VAT Refund for Tourists in UAE
VAT Refund for Tourists in UAE: A Comprehensive Guide
The VAT Refund for Tourists in UAE is a hassle-free system that allows visitors to claim back the Value Added Tax (VAT) paid on purchases made during their stay. Introduced by the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) in 2018, this initiative enhances the shopping experience for tourists by offering a fully digital and integrated tax-free service. Here’s everything you need to know about How to Claim VAT Refund in UAE for Tourist, the process, and key conditions.
What is VAT Refund for Tourists?
The VAT Refund for Tourists in UAE allows eligible visitors to recover the 5% VAT paid on taxable goods purchased in the UAE. The refund facilitated through Planet, the exclusive operator of the tax refund system, and available at all major departure points, including airports, seaports, and land borders.
How to Claim VAT Refund in UAE?
To claim a VAT refund, tourists must follow these steps:
- Shop at Participating Retailers: Ensure purchases made from stores registered under the ‘Tax Refund for Tourists‘ scheme with a minimum spend of AED 250.
- Request a Tax-Free Invoice: Present a valid passport at the store, where the retailer will create a digital tax-free form and attach a ‘tax-free’ tag to the receipt.
- Validate Purchases at Departure: At the airport or port of departure, validate the purchases through a special device by providing:
- Tax invoices with tax-free tags.
- Passport copy.
- Credit card details.
- Collect Your Refund: Receive the refund in cash (AED), your homeland currency, or via credit card after the deduction of applicable fees.
Conditions for VAT Refund for Tourists in UAE
- Tourists must be 18 years or older.
- The goods must be exported within 90 days after purchase.
- Refunds do not apply to items consumed or used within the UAE.
- Only purchases from retailers registered in the scheme are eligible.
Key Benefits of VAT Refund for Tourists
- Enhanced Shopping Experience: Offers a significant saving for tourists shopping in Dubai and other emirates.
- Efficient Process: The digital system ensures quick and seamless refunds.
- Wide Accessibility: Refund facilities are available at all major departure points.
Experience the benefits of VAT Refund Dubai for Tourist with the streamlined tax-free shopping process, making your visit to the UAE more enjoyable and economical.
