Shopping in the UAE isn’t just a leisure activity – it’s an experience that blends luxury, convenience, and value. Since the introduction of the value-added tax (VAT) in 2018, the country has ensured that visitors can still enjoy tax-free shopping benefits through a dedicated Tourist Refund Scheme. This system enables travellers to reclaim most of the VAT they pay on eligible retail purchases through a VAT refund in Dubai.
The refund programme is managed by the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) and operated exclusively by Planet Tax Free, ensuring a seamless and secure process at all UAE exit points, from airports to land borders.
Whether you’re leaving from Dubai International Airport, Abu Dhabi International, or any other terminal, this detailed guide clearly explains how to claim your VAT refund in Dubai step by step – including eligibility criteria, required documents, and refund methods.
- What is VAT in the UAE
- Who can claim a VAT refund in the UAE
- Eligible purchases and participating retailers
- Step-by-step VAT refund process
- Key fees and refund amount
- Time limits and additional considerations
- Common issues and practical solutions
- Contact details and official resources
- Practical travel and refund tips
- Key takeaways
- FAQs
What is VAT in the UAE
The Value Added Tax (VAT) was implemented across the UAE in January 2018 at a standard rate of 5 % on most goods and services. It represents a milestone in the country’s economic diversification strategy and helps strengthen government revenues while aligning with international tax practices.
To support tourism – a key economic pillar – the government introduced the Tourist Refund Scheme, allowing non-residents to recover VAT paid on certain retail purchases.
Planet Tax Free manages the refund process exclusively under FTA authorisation. Using electronic tags, kiosks, and validation counters, Planet ensures the process is efficient, transparent, and accessible at airports, seaports, and land borders.
This initiative makes the UAE one of the most tourist-friendly shopping destinations in the region, allowing travellers to enjoy premium brands and local products without losing value to taxation.
Who can claim a VAT refund in the UAE
Refunds are available to non-resident tourists aged 18 years and above who make personal retail purchases during their visit. To qualify, visitors must meet all conditions outlined by the FTA and Planet Tax Free.
Eligibility criteria
- The claimant must be a non-resident visitor in the UAE.
- Purchases must be made from retailers registered under the Tourist Refund Scheme.
- The tourist must present a valid passport or GCC ID at the time of purchase.
- Departure from the UAE must occur within 90 days of the purchase date.
- The tourist must not be a flight crew member departing on duty.
Airline crew are excluded from the refund programme. The goods must also be intended for personal use and exported physically from the UAE upon departure.
Eligible purchases and participating retailers
Only purchases made at outlets officially registered in the Tourist Refund Scheme are eligible. Such stores display the “Tax Free” sticker or signage near the entrance or checkout counter.
Minimum spend requirement
Each tax invoice must total at least AED 250; separate receipts cannot be combined.
Excluded items
Some purchases do not qualify for a VAT refund, including:
- Goods consumed within the UAE, such as food, beverages, and personal care products.
- Perishable goods, including groceries and flowers.
- Vehicles, motorcycles, and similar items.
- Services, such as hotel stays, tours, or entertainment tickets.
Physical export requirement
To receive a refund, goods must be taken out of the UAE. Items left behind, consumed, or shipped through cargo are excluded. The physical export of goods is confirmed at the validation stage by Planet staff or electronic systems.
Participating retailers
Major shopping malls, luxury boutiques, and department stores across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah are part of the scheme. Tourists can confirm eligibility by looking for Planet’s “Tax Free” logo or asking staff at checkout.
Step-by-step VAT refund process
The refund process is designed for convenience, but it must be followed carefully to ensure approval. The procedure consists of three key stages.
Step 1 – Shopping and documentation
Always double-check that each invoice carries a valid Planet tag — this is essential for validation later.
- Shop only at outlets displaying the “Tax Free” logo.
- Present your passport or GCC ID at checkout to link the purchase.
- Collect your official tax invoice and Planet Tax Free tag.
- Keep goods unopened and receipts safe until departure.
Step 2 – Validation at departure
Validation must take place before checking in luggage. Visit the VAT validation counters or self-service kiosks at your airport, seaport, or land border.
Present the following:
- Passport or GCC ID
- Boarding pass or ticket
- Tax-free receipts and Planet tags
- Purchased goods (if requested for inspection)
Planet staff or automated kiosks will electronically confirm your refund eligibility. In some cases, random inspections may occur for high-value or luxury items.
Step 3 – Refund collection
Once validated, proceed to the VAT Refund counter or kiosk. Choose your preferred refund method
- Cash refund (up to AED 35,000 per trip)
- Credit card refund (Visa, Mastercard, or others)
Cash refunds are instant, while card refunds take up to 10 business days, depending on the issuing bank.
Key fees and refund amount
Tourists do not receive the entire VAT amount, as a small administrative fee applies to each claim.
- Refundable amount: 85 % of VAT paid
- Processing fee: AED 4.80 per tax-free tag
- Example: On AED 100 VAT, the refund totals AED 85.20 after the fee deduction.
This percentage (85%) reflects the current structure, as confirmed by the FTA and Planet Tax Free, replacing earlier references to 87%.
This deduction covers operational costs for verification, refund disbursement, and kiosk maintenance, keeping the system efficient for millions of visitors.
Time limits and additional considerations
Timing plays a key role in the VAT refund process. To ensure eligibility, travellers must validate their purchases and complete all procedures within the required deadlines before leaving the UAE.
Validation deadline
Purchases must be validated within 90 days of the transaction date. Expired invoices cannot be processed, and no exceptions are allowed.
Departure timeframe
Once validated, the traveller must leave the UAE within six hours. This ensures that goods are physically exported and prevents post-departure refund claims.
Refund locations
VAT refund services are available at:
- Dubai International Airport (DXB)
- Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH)
- Sharjah International Airport (SHJ)
- Land borders with Oman and Saudi Arabia
- Seaports such as Port Rashid and Khalifa Port
Unclaimed refunds
Uncollected refunds are automatically cancelled after departure. Remote or post-departure refunds are not possible, as verification must occur within UAE territory.
Common issues and practical solutions
Even with a well-regulated system, tourists occasionally face small issues. Here’s how to handle them.
| Issue | Reason | Solution |
| Missing receipts or an unregistered retailer | The store isn’t part of Planet’s system | Refund not possible — check for the “Tax Free” logo before purchasing |
| Goods opened or used before travel | Goods must be unused and exported | Keep items sealed until validation |
| Long queues at airport counters | Peak travel hours | Arrive at least 3–4 hours before departure |
| Card refund delay | Bank processing times | Allow up to 10 business days for credit to appear |
If any issues persist, contact Planet Tax Free support or track your claim through the Planet Shopper Portal or mobile app.
Contact details and official resources
For accurate information or assistance with VAT refund claims, tourists can rely on verified official sources. The following contacts provide direct access to refund operators and government authorities overseeing the scheme.
Planet Tax Free (UAE operator)
- Customer service: +971 4 586 4700
- Refund counters: Available at all airports, seaports, and land borders
- Tracking tools: Planet Shopper Portal and mobile app
Federal Tax Authority (FTA)
Official guidelines, news, and retailer registration database
UAE Government Portal
Includes step-by-step explanations and updated conditions.
Practical travel and refund tips
A few simple precautions can make the VAT refund process faster and stress-free. Keep these travel and documentation tips in mind before heading to the airport.
- Arrive early: Allow extra time for validation and refund collection.
- Organise receipts: Keep them flat, legible, and stored with your passport.
- Avoid last-minute shopping: Items purchased on the day of departure may not qualify.
- Check refund counters’ hours: Some locations have specific operating hours.
- Use self-service kiosks: They are often faster and less crowded than staffed counters.
- Monitor your card: Bank transfers can take several working days.
- Download the Planet app, which lets you track claims in real-time.
Key takeaways
The VAT refund in Dubai offers tourists a convenient way to reclaim up to 85% of the VAT paid on eligible goods. Purchases must total AED 250 or more, be made from registered retailers, and be validated within 90 days of the purchase date.
Refunds can be collected in cash (up to AED 35,000) or credited to a card, with a deduction of AED 4.80 per invoice. Keep unused items, save your receipts, and allow sufficient time at the airport to complete the process.
By following the Planet Tax Free system, travellers can enjoy shopping across the UAE with confidence, knowing that the process is regulated, transparent, and supported by official authorities.
FAQs
Only non-residents aged 18 and above can claim VAT refunds. UAE residents and airline crew members are excluded.
A minimum of AED 250 per invoice from a registered “Tax Free” retailer.
Receipts must be validated within 90 days of purchase, and departure must occur within six hours of validation.
No. Original Planet-issued invoices and tags are required for processing.
Visit the UAE Government Portal, FTA website, or Planet Tax Free for official details, updates, and kiosk locations.
