Dubai, known for its luxury shopping malls, boutiques and shopping festivals, attracts millions of tourists every year. What is more, tourists can take advantage of the VAT refund scheme, which makes shopping even more attractive. Find out how easy it is to claim a tax refund and enjoy exceptional offers during your visit to the United Arab Emirates.
What does tax-free shopping involve?
VAT at a rate of 5% has applied in the United Arab Emirates since 2018. However, tourists can take advantage of the VAT refund scheme on goods purchased in the UAE that will be taken out of the country. Here is what you need to know:
- VAT refunds apply only to goods not consumed in the UAE, which will accompany tourists when they leave the country.
- Planet Tax Free is the company that operates the VAT refund scheme. Most popular shops in the UAE take part in it.
- You can claim your tax refund at Planet Tax Free points at airports, land borders and seaports.
Step by step: how to claim a VAT refund
- When shopping - Ask for a tax-free receipt ("Tax Free") in a shop that participates in the scheme. The minimum purchase value is AED 250.
- Show your passport - The shop will scan your document to register the transaction.
- Tax Free validation - Before leaving the UAE, visit a Planet Tax Free point. The "Tax Free" tag must be validated within 90 days of the purchase date.
- Refund - You can receive your refund in cash (up to AED 10,000 per day) or on a credit card.
Who is entitled to a VAT refund?
The refund is available only to tourists:
- People who are not UAE residents.
- Tourists who are aged 18 or over.
- People leaving the country by land, air or sea.
Where can you complete your VAT refund?
If you want a quick process, use the Planet Payment self-service kiosks, available at:
- Dubai International Airport (DXB).
- Dubai World Central Airport (DWC).
- Shopping malls such as Dubai Mall.
At the kiosks, you can quickly scan your passport, credit card and purchase documents and receive your refund.
Limits and conditions:
- Each tourist can receive a refund of up to AED 35,000 per stay.
- The refund applies only to transactions confirmed in the Planet Tax Free system.
- The VAT refund system is fully digital - it is not possible to submit applications on paper or by telephone.
Book a free consultation.
If you have any questions or need support, you can contact Global Tax Partners
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