How to Claim VAT Refund in UAE for Tourists?
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a popular travel destination known for its luxury shopping, modern attractions, and tax-free reputation. However, a Value Added Tax (VAT) of 5% was introduced in 2018, affecting most purchases made in the country. The good news for tourists is that they can claim a VAT refund on eligible purchases before leaving the UAE. This guide will explain the process of claiming a VAT refund and address key questions like, Can I get a VAT refund in Dubai Mall? Can I get a VAT refund on Noon purchases in the UAE? What items qualify for a VAT refund?
Basics of VAT Refund for Tourists in UAE:
Eligibility for VAT Refunds
In case, any tourist fulfills the following conditions they will be able to claim a VAT refund in UAE:
- Purchases are required to be made from a Tax-Free Shopping scheme retailer.
- The tourist has to exit the UAE within 90 days from the date of purchase.
- The purchased items should be taken out of the UAE in personal luggage.
- The tourist must not be a resident of any GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) country.
- Must file the claim within 90 days of the purchase date.
- The tourist must be a minimum of 18 years old.
How to Claim a VAT Refund Explained, A Step-by-Step Process:?
Step 1: Shop at Tax-Free Retailers.
When you are shopping, make sure the retailer is part of the UAE’s Tax-Free Shopping program. Search for shops with a Tax-free logo and ask the cashier if VAT refunds are applicable.
Step 2: Ask for a Tax-Free Invoice.
Request a tax-free invoice at the time of purchase. The retailer will create an electronic Tax-Free Tag associated with your passport.
Step 3: Is your VAT Refund Valid?
To recover this, before departing the UAE, you must visit a VAT refund validation counter at the airport, seaport, or border exit. “Planet” the one who manages tax refunds for tourists, operates the UAE’s VAT refund system.
Step 4: Submit Required Documents.
To claim a refund, present the following.
- Your passport or GCC tourist card.
- Original purchase receipts and tax-free invoices.
- The purchased goods are for verification.
- A valid boarding pass or travel details.
Step 5: Select Your Refund Method.
After your request has been verified, you may select how you’ll obtain your refund:
- Cash (Subject to certain limits, available at select locations).
- Credit Card Transfer (A highly secure payment method, arrives within a couple of days)
Can I get a VAT refund in Dubai Mall?
Yes, Dubai Mall does allow tourists to claim VAT refunds for purchases made at the participating store. Some of the mall’s retailers are covered under the UAE’s Tax-Free Shopping program, allowing tourists to get refunds on qualifying purchases.
How To Claim VAT Refund At Dubai Mall?
Dubai Mall has Planet VAT refund kiosks to validate the requests and even send tourists on their way to the airport.
These kiosks allow shoppers to:
- Use receipts to ensure eligibility.
- Confirm tax-free purchases using their passport.
- Get a notification that their refund is approved.
However, while tourists can validate their refund at Dubai Mall, they still need to collect their refund at the airport before flying out.
Where to Find VAT Refund Kiosks in Dubai Mall?
There are many Planet VAT refund kiosks at the Dubai Mall. The largest sites include:
- Customer service areas on the ground floor.
- Next to luxury brand boutiques.
- Main atrium and departure hall spaces.
Can I Get a VAT Refund on Noon Purchases in the UAE?
Any purchase made on Noon is not eligible for VAT refunds in the UAE. It only applies to purchases made at physical stores from retailers that join the Tax-Free Shopping network.
Why Doesn’t Noon Qualify for VAT Refunds?
- Not Applicable to Online Purchases: The UAE’s VAT refund system mandates that to be eligible for a refund, tourists must take the goods physically out of the country, which means that online deliveries are not covered.
- No Tax-Free Invoice: Noon doesn’t issue the electronic Tax-Free Tag ( Transit Import ) for VAT refund claims.
- System Limitation: The UAE tax refund system caters to brick-and-mortar retail stores rather than e-commerce platforms.
Tourists wishing to claim VAT refunds must buy from physical establishments in the UAE that have the Tax-Free shopping logo displayed.
What Items Qualify for a VAT Refund?
Not all products are eligible for VAT refunds. Although. Here is a breakdown:
Eligible Items For VAT Refund
- Fashion & Accessories: Clothing, footwear, and designer goods.
- Electronics: Mobiles, laptops, cameras, and gadgets.
- Jewelry & Luxury Items: Watches, gold, and luxury accessories.
- Perfumes & Cosmetics: Fragrances, skincare, beauty products.
- Souvenirs & Gifts: Handicrafts, artwork,s, and cultural artifacts.
- Home Decor & Furnishings: Carpets, decorative items, and antiques.
Items Not Eligible For VAT Refund
- Services: Hotels, restaurants, entertainment, and tours.
- Automobiles: Vehicles, motorbikes, and boats.
- Consumables: Food, beverage, and perishables.
- Pharmaceuticals: Prescription medications, and health supplements.
- Online Purchases: Purchases on Noon and other e-commerce platforms.
Additional Tips for Claiming a VAT Refund in UAE
- Arrive Early at the Airport: There can be crowds at VAT refund counters, so give yourself extra time before your flight.
- Keep Purchases Accessible: Some items may require verification before they can be approved.
- Be Aware of Refund Limits: Cash refunds have limits, so your best bet is for a credit card refund.
- Know the Refund Limits: Certain refund methods may be subject to minor administrative charges.
- Always Check Store Participation: Before you shop, make sure the store participates in the tax-free shopping scheme.
If tourists follow the proper procedures, claiming a VAT refund in the UAE is an easy process. The purchases should be made from tax-free retailers and the refund claim should be verified at dedicated kiosks or refund points before exiting the country. If you are completing a VAT refund within Dubai Mall, you’ll find VAT refund validation kiosks in the mall, but you’ll collect your refund at the airport. VAT refunds do not apply to online purchases including Noon. These rules are important for tourists as they can help them make use of the tax exemption while shopping in the UAE. Organizing receipts and making plans in advance will enable tourists to shop tax-free in the UAE and maximize their trip.
