VAT Refund for Tourists/Residents: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn how to claim a refund on the 5% VAT paid on specific goods during your stay in the United Arab Emirates.
This scheme allows you to claim back the tax paid on certain goods purchased within the United Arab Emirates. It is designed to provide a refund of the 5% VAT on specific items bought by eligible shoppers.
Who it's for
To qualify for this program, you must make eligible purchases from retailers that are officially registered for the tax refund system. It is important to verify that the shop you are visiting is a registered retailer before you complete your transaction to ensure your purchase is eligible for a refund.
What you get
The primary benefit of this scheme is the refund of the 5% VAT you paid on specific goods. This allows you to recover a portion of the tax included in the price of your items, depending on the specific goods purchased and the retailer's status.
What it costs you
The process is not entirely free. While you are receiving money back, a processing fee is deducted from your total refund amount. You should account for this deduction when calculating exactly how much money you will receive in your pocket.
The catch to know
The most important thing to remember is the timing of your request. You cannot simply ask for the refund after you have left the shopping area; you must request the tax-free tag at the exact time of purchase while you are still inside the store. If you do not secure this tag during the transaction, you may miss your chance to claim the tax back.
How to apply
- Identify a registered retailer and ensure you request the tax-free tag at the time of your purchase.
- Collect and hold onto all original receipts and documentation related to your eligible purchases.
- Visit the official portal to follow the specific steps required to process your claim.
Check the official portal for more details: https://tax.gov.ae/