Highlights
- Understanding VAT Refund Eligibility: Criteria and Conditions
- Shopping Essentials: Procedures to Follow for Tax-Free Purchases
- Applying for Refund: Collection Points and Airport Procedures
- Refund Amount: Details on the Percentage and Deductions
VAT
Dubai – As a tourist in the UAE, you could be eligible for a VAT refund of five percent, making your shopping experience even more rewarding. To claim this refund, there are essential steps to follow before leaving the country. Let’s explore the key details you need to know:
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Understanding VAT Refund in the UAE
Introduced in January 2018, the UAE’s Federal Tax Authority (FTA) implemented a five percent Value Added Tax (VAT). For eligible tourists, this signifies an opportunity for tax-free shopping by requesting a VAT refund on purchases made in the country.
Who is eligible for VAT return in UAE?
- You’re not a UAE resident or a crew member on a departing flight or aircraft.
- A minimum spend of Dh250 at a registered retailer in the UAE.
- You must be at least 18 years old.
- Goods purchased must not include motor vehicles, boats, or aircraft.
- Your purchased goods should be exported from the UAE within 90 days from the purchase date.
- Goods shouldn’t be consumed either fully or partially.
- You must possess the required documents, including purchase receipts, when claiming the refund.
Shopping Essentials for VAT Refund
During shopping:
- Ensure you carry your passport.
- Request a ‘tax-free purchase’ at the store for expenditures above Dh250.
- Present your passport during payment for a tax-free purchase.
Applying for Refund and Collection Points
The refund can be collected at various locations, including airports, seaports, and land borders. Notably:
Airports Locations:
- Abu Dhabi International Airport
- Dubai International Airport (Terminals 1, 2, and 3)
- Sharjah International Airport
- Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC)
- Al Ain International Airport
- Ras Al Khaimah International Airport
Seaports Locations:
- Port Zayed – Abu Dhabi
- Port Rashid – Dubai
- Port Khalid – Sharjah
land borders:
- Al Ghuwaifat – At the border with Saudi Arabia
- Al Hili, Al Ain – At the border with Oman
- Al Madeef, Al Ain – At the border with Oman
- Hatta – At the border with Oman
- Khatmat Malaha – At the border with Oman
Airport Procedures for VAT Refund
- Locate the Planet kiosk at the airport.
- Have the purchased goods for inspection along with tax invoices, a passport copy, and your credit card details.
- Select your preferred refund method: cash (in UAE dirhams), credit card refund, or digital wallet.
- Allow up to nine days for the refund request processing.
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How much is VAT refund in UAE?
You’ll receive 85 percent of the total VAT amount paid after a deduction of Dh4.80 per tax-free tag.
