How Tourists Can Easily Get VAT Refunds in Dubai 2025

human inrest2 days ago

Dubai is famous for luxury shopping, world-class malls, and high-end brands. But did you know tourists can actually get a part of their shopping money back? Thanks to Dubai’s VAT refund system for tourists, visitors can claim a refund on the Value Added Tax (VAT) they pay on their purchases during their stay in the city.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) introduced a 5% VAT on goods and services in January 2018. While this tax helps boost the economy, the government made sure to offer some relief to international visitors through a tax refund system. The goal? Encourage tourism and support Dubai’s image as a global shopping paradise.

Here’s everything tourists need to know about how to get a VAT refund in Dubai — in simple, easy-to-understand language.

What is VAT in Dubai?

VAT, or Value Added Tax, is a 5% tax added to most goods and services in the UAE. It applies to items like clothes, electronics, jewelry, luxury items, and more. However, the UAE government allows foreign tourists to claim refunds on VAT paid for eligible purchases made during their trip.

This means, if you’re a tourist who has shopped in Dubai, you can get a portion of your money back at the airport before leaving the country.

Who Can Claim VAT Refund in Dubai?

To be eligible for a VAT refund in Dubai:

You must not be a resident of the UAE.
You must be 18 years or older.
You must leave the UAE within 90 days of your purchase.
You must take the items with you, meaning the goods must leave the country in your luggage.
You must make your purchases at stores that are part of the Tourist Refund Scheme.

It’s also important that your passport or travel documents are valid and stamped properly at entry and exit points.

How Does the Dubai VAT Refund System Work?

The VAT refund system for tourists in the UAE is operated by Planet, a global payment and technology company. Here’s a step-by-step guide to how it works:

Shop at Participating Retailers
Look for shops with a “Tax-Free Shopping” sign or ask the store staff if they are part of the Tourist Refund Scheme. When you make a purchase, request a Tax Invoice linked to the refund system.
Get a Digital Tax-Free Tag
The retailer will scan your passport and issue you a digital tax invoice with a QR code. No paper receipts are needed anymore — everything is done electronically.
Validate Your Purchases at the Airport
Before leaving Dubai, go to one of the Planet validation kiosks at the airport (available at Dubai International Airport terminals). You’ll scan your passport and receipts using the self-service kiosk. Customs officers may ask to inspect your purchases.
Choose Your Refund Method
After validation, you can get your VAT refund in cash (AED) or have it transferred to your credit card. There’s a limit to the cash refund (usually AED 7,000 per day), so higher amounts are refunded via card.

Important Things to Remember

You must validate your purchases within 90 days of the purchase date.
VAT refunds apply only to goods, not to services like hotel stays, food, entertainment, or transport.
A minimum purchase of AED 250 is required per invoice to qualify for the refund.
You’ll receive about 85% of the VAT amount — 15% is charged as an admin fee by the refund operator.

Where Are the VAT Refund Kiosks in Dubai?

Dubai makes it easy for tourists to access the refund system. Kiosks are located at:

Dubai International Airport (DXB) — Terminals 1, 2, and 3
Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC)
Abu Dhabi International Airport
Sharjah International Airport
And several land and seaport borders

These kiosks operate 24/7, so you can process your refund at any time before boarding your flight.

Why This Matters for Tourists

Getting a VAT refund in Dubai is like getting a surprise discount after your trip. For high-spending tourists — especially those buying electronics, gold, designer items, or souvenirs — the amount refunded can be significant. For example, if you spend AED 10,000 on eligible goods, the VAT is AED 500. After deductions, you could get back around AED 425 — enough for a nice meal or even an airport duty-free purchase.

Digital, Fast, and Tourist-Friendly

Dubai’s system is one of the most advanced VAT refund setups in the world. The switch to digital e-invoicing and kiosks has made the entire process smoother and faster. Tourists don’t need to stand in long queues or worry about losing paper receipts.

It’s part of Dubai’s broader push to improve its tourism experience and position itself as a smart city with seamless services.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Leave Money Behind

Dubai’s VAT refund system is an excellent way for tourists to save money. Whether you’re here for luxury shopping, gifts, or just a vacation, make sure to shop smart and claim your VAT refund before leaving.

With a few easy steps and some planning at the airport, you can walk away with a bit more cash in your pocket — and one more reason to come back to Dubai.