Tourists visiting Abu Dhabi can recover up to 85% of the vat paid on their purchases through the UAE’s comprehensive digital tax refund system. Since the United Arab Emirates introduced value added tax in January 2018, the government has created an efficient vat refund scheme specifically designed to benefit overseas tourists and encourage retail spending. Only purchases that are eligible for tax free status qualify for the refund, and travelers must make a tax free transaction at participating retailers to take advantage of this benefit.
Tourists visiting Abu Dhabi can recover up to 85% of the vat paid on their purchases through the UAE’s comprehensive digital tax refund system. Since the United Arab Emirates introduced value added tax in January 2018, the government has created an efficient vat refund scheme specifically designed to benefit overseas tourists and encourage retail spending. Only purchases that are eligible for tax free status qualify for the refund, and travelers must make a tax free transaction at participating retailers to take advantage of this benefit.
The planet system, operated as the exclusive operator for the federal tax authority, processes vat refunds at Zayed International Airport and other departure points throughout the UAE. Overseas tourists can claim refund on VAT paid by following the required steps. This guide provides everything you need to know about how to claim vat refund in Abu Dhabi, from eligibility requirements to the complete validation process. After successful validation, the VAT amount will be refunded to the tourist.
Introduction to Tax Free Shopping
Tax free shopping in the United Arab Emirates offers overseas tourists a unique opportunity to enjoy significant savings on their purchases. Since the UAE government introduced a 5% Value Added Tax (VAT) in 2018, the Federal Tax Authority has implemented a dedicated tax refund system to make shopping more attractive for visitors. Through the VAT refund scheme, tourists can shop tax free at participating retailers and claim a VAT refund on eligible purchases, provided the goods are exported from the country within the required timeframe.
This initiative is designed to enhance the shopping experience for overseas tourists, making Abu Dhabi and the wider UAE a premier destination for retail therapy. To be eligible for a VAT refund, shoppers must ensure their purchases are made from retailers registered with the tax refund system and that all requirements for export and documentation are met. The process is streamlined and efficient, allowing tourists to claim a VAT refund on the added tax paid, making their trip more affordable and enjoyable. The VAT refund scheme not only supports tourism but also reinforces the UAE’s reputation as a shopper’s paradise, with the Federal Tax Authority ensuring a smooth and transparent refund process for all eligible purchases.
Quick Guide to VAT Refund Claims in Abu Dhabi
The vat refund for tourists follows a streamlined digital process that can save you significant money on your Abu dhabi shopping. Here’s the essential overview:
Shop at participating retailers: Purchase goods from merchants displaying tax free shopping signage and registered with the tourists scheme, and be sure to request a tax free transaction at the point of sale to ensure eligibility for a VAT refund.
Request documentation: Ask the shop assistant for a digital tax free form and ensure your tax free tag is properly processed with your passport details
Validate at departure: Complete the validation process at planet validation point locations at abu dhabi airport before checking in
Receive your refund: Get 85% of the total vat amount paid (minus AED 4.80 processing fee per tag) through cash refund or card refund options
Meet timing requirements: Complete validation within 90 days of purchase and exit the UAE within 6 hours of successful validation
Understanding VAT Refund System in Abu Dhabi
The UAE government introduced a 5% value added tax rate in January 2018 as part of broader fiscal reforms. The federal tax authority partnered with planet payment to create a fully digital tax free shopping experience that launched in late 2018.
This vat refund system operates across all UAE departure points, including land, sea, and air borders. At abu dhabi airport specifically, the system integrates seamlessly with Terminal A operations near the Etihad Airways customer service area.
The digital approach eliminates traditional paperwork through a paperless method that connects directly with participating retailers’ point-of-sale systems. Over 18,000 merchants across the UAE now participate in the tax refund for tourists scheme, making it one of the world’s most comprehensive tourist refund systems.
The primary goal is encouraging tourism and retail spending while positioning Abu Dhabi as a premier shopping destination for overseas tourists. VAT paid on eligible purchases is refunded to overseas tourists once the validation process is completed.
Eligibility Requirements for VAT Refund
To qualify for VAT refunds in Abu Dhabi, you must meet specific criteria established by the federal tax authority. Only purchases and tourists who meet these outlined criteria are eligible for tax free shopping and VAT refunds:
Tourist Status Requirements:
Must be a non-resident of the UAE aged 18 and above
Valid passport or GCC national ID required for verification
Temporary visitors only - UAE residents are not eligible for the tourists VAT refund
Purchase Requirements:
Goods must be for personal use and intended for export from the UAE
Purchases must be made from a seller registered under the refund for tourists scheme
Items must comply with UAE VAT regulations and export requirements
Minimum purchase thresholds may apply depending on individual retailers
Documentation Standards:
Valid travel document showing non-resident status
Original tax invoice or digital tax invoice with proper planet system registration
Goods must be unused and in original packaging for inspection
The system specifically excludes motor vehicles, services, and goods intended for commercial use from the VAT refund scheme.
Step-by-Step VAT Refund Process
Step 1: Shopping at Registered Retailers
Begin your tax free shopping by identifying participating merchants throughout Abu Dhabi’s shopping malls and retail districts. Look for stores displaying “Tax Free” signage or planet system branding.
When ready to make eligible purchases:
Inform the store staff at checkout that you want to shop tax free
Present your passport for the merchant to enter your details into the digital system
Ensure the retailer processes your tax invoice with the appropriate tax free tags
Verify that your sales receipt includes the digital tax free form or QR code
Keep your original tax invoices organized for airport validation
Many retailers now offer e-receipts through the digital tax free system, reducing paper documentation while maintaining full compliance with vat incurred tracking.
Step 2: Validation at Zayed International Airport
Navigate to the planet validation points located in Terminal A near the Etihad Airways customer service area. The validation process must be completed before check-in and security screening.
At the Validation Counter:
Present your passport and travel document to planet staff
Show all tax invoices and purchased goods for inspection
Use either self service kiosks or assisted service counters based on queue availability
Allow additional time for potential inspection of high-value items
Confirm your preferred refund method during the validation process
The system may require you to be physically present with your relevant goods, particularly for luxury items or purchases exceeding certain value thresholds. Store staff recommendations suggest arriving at the airport early to accommodate potential delays.
Step 3: Receiving Your Refund
After completing the validation process successfully, choose your preferred refund method:
Cash Refunds:
Available up to AED 35,000 per tourist per trip
Daily cash refund limits of AED 10,000 apply
Immediate processing at the validation counter
Best for smaller purchase amounts
Credit or Debit Card Refunds:
No maximum refund amount limitations
Processed within 9 days after UAE exit
Refunds typically go to the original payment card when possible
Required for amounts exceeding cash limits
Digital Wallet Options:
Available through the shopper portal system
Integrates with various international payment platforms
Processing times vary by the bank determines policies
Remember that you must exit the UAE within 6 hours of validation to avoid automatic refund cancellation by the planet system.
Required Documents and Information
Successful vat refund claims require specific documentation and information:
Document Type | Requirements | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
Travel Document | Valid passport or GCC ID | Identity verification and tourist status |
Tax Invoices | Original tax invoices with tax free tags | Proof of eligible purchases |
Payment Cards | Credit or debit card used for purchase | Card refund processing |
Contact Information | Phone number for system registration | Digital system communication |
Departure Documents | Flight boarding pass or travel tickets | Verification of UAE exit |
Since 2022, many retailers issue e-receipts instead of physical receipts, streamlining the documentation process. The tourist refund mobile app can store these digital documents for easy airport access.
Ensure all tax free transactions are properly documented with complete purchase details and vat amount calculations.
Digital VAT Refund Options
Tourist Refund Mobile App
The federal tax authority’s official tourist refund app enhances the claim vat refund experience through digital convenience:
Direct Invoice Scanning: Scan tax invoices immediately after tax free purchases at UAE stores
Centralized Storage: App maintains all purchase details and tax free tags in one location
Queue Reduction: Pre-processed information reduces waiting times at abu dhabi airport validation points
Real-Time Tracking: Monitor refund status and processing updates
Multi-Language Support: Interface available in multiple languages for international tourists
Download the app before traveling to maximize efficiency during your validation process.
WeChat Integration for Chinese Tourists
Chinese visitors benefit from specialized WeChat-based vat refund processing:
Native Language Interface: Complete Chinese language support for easier navigation
Payment Integration: Links with Chinese payment systems for streamlined refunds
Cultural Customization: Interface designed specifically for Chinese tourist preferences
Reduced Processing Time: Dedicated system helps avoid standard validation queues
Technical Support: Chinese-speaking customer support available
This integration demonstrates the UAE’s commitment to accommodating diverse international tourist populations through the digital tax invoice system.
Important Time Limits and Restrictions
The vat refund system enforces strict timing requirements that tourists must understand:
Purchase to Validation Timeline:
Tax free tags must be validated within 90 days from the original purchase date
Expired tags after the 90-day period cannot be processed for any refunds
Track purchase dates carefully across multiple shopping trips
Consider validation timing when planning extended UAE visits
Validation to Exit Requirements:
Must exit the UAE within 6 hours of completing the validation process
Refunds are automatically cancelled if exit requirements aren’t met
Plan airport arrival times to accommodate both validation and departure schedules
Allow buffer time for potential delays in the export validate process
Federal Tax Authority Enforcement: The federal tax authority strictly monitors compliance with all time limits. Extensions or exceptions are generally not available, making proper planning essential for successful refund claim processing.
Refund Amounts and Fees
Understanding the financial aspects of vat refunds helps tourists plan their shopping and budgeting:
Refund Calculations:
Receive 85% of the total vat amount paid on eligible purchases
Processing fee of AED 4.80 deducted per tax free tag validated
Refund amount calculations exclude the original purchase price, only covering tax paid
Cash Refund Limitations:
Maximum cash refund of AED 35,000 per tourist per trip
Daily cash refund limit of AED 10,000 per tourist
Amounts exceeding these limits automatically processed as card refunds
Foreign exchange rate applied for non-AED cash transactions
Card Refund Processing:
No maximum refund amount for credit or debit card refunds
Processing timeframe typically 9 days after UAE exit
Bank determines final processing speed based on international transfer requirements
Original payment method preferred when technically feasible
The 85% refund rate represents one of the most generous tourist vat refund percentages globally, making Abu Dhabi shopping particularly attractive for international visitors.
Excluded Items and Special Considerations
Not all purchases qualify for vat refunds under UAE regulations:
Excluded Categories:
Services such as hotels, restaurants, and entertainment
Motor vehicles and automotive equipment
Goods purchased for commercial or business purposes
Items consumed or used before departure from the UAE
Certain regulated products as determined by UAE customs
Special Inspection Requirements:
Luxury goods may require additional documentation and inspection
High-value electronics often need demonstration of export intent
Jewelry and precious metals subject to enhanced verification procedures
Original packaging requirements apply to most eligible goods
Verification Standards: Goods must remain unused and in original condition for successful validation. The planet system may reject claims for items showing signs of use or consumption before the export validation process.
Consult with retailer staff about specific product eligibility before making large purchases intended for vat refund claims.
Finalizing the Refund Claim
Finalizing your VAT refund claim in Abu Dhabi is the last crucial step to enjoying the benefits of tax free shopping. After making eligible purchases and receiving your digital tax free form and tax free tag, you must complete the validation process at the airport or designated exit point. During validation, the total VAT amount paid on your qualifying purchases will be calculated, and a processing fee of AED 4.80 will be deducted for each tax free tag.
Tourists can select their preferred refund method—whether it’s a cash refund, credit or debit card refund, or a digital wallet transfer. Keep in mind that the VAT refund scheme sets a maximum refund amount for cash payouts, and any refund exceeding this limit will be processed directly to your credit or debit card. It’s also important to be aware of the foreign exchange rate and any associated currency conversion fees, as these can affect the final refund amount you receive.
To ensure your refund is not cancelled, you must leave the UAE within 6 hours of completing the validation process. The Federal Tax Authority and Planet, the exclusive operator of the tax refund system, are available to provide guidance and support throughout your refund claim, making the process straightforward and efficient. By following these steps and understanding the rules of the VAT refund scheme, you can successfully claim your refund and make the most of your tax free shopping experience in the United Arab Emirates.
Tips for Smooth VAT Refund Process
Maximize your success with these practical recommendations from experienced tourists and planet system operators:
Pre-Travel Preparation:
Download the tourist refund app before arriving in Abu Dhabi
Research participating retailers in your planned shopping areas
Understand minimum spend requirements at different stores
Plan shopping timing to allow adequate validation processing
During Shopping:
Always inform store staff about tax free shopping intentions at checkout
Verify that your passport details are correctly entered into the digital system
Keep all original tax invoices and tax free tags organized and accessible
Take photos of important documentation as backup
Airport Validation Strategy:
Arrive at abu dhabi airport early to allow sufficient validation time
Complete refund validation before checking luggage, as items may need inspection
Bring purchased goods in carry-on when possible for easier access
Have contact information ready for the shopper portal registration
Common Problem Prevention:
Double-check that retailers are participating in the tourists scheme before large purchases
Ensure tax free tags are properly activated at point of sale
Maintain awareness of the 90-day validation deadline throughout your visit
Contact planet customer support for pre-travel questions or concerns
Contact Information and Support
Access support and additional information through these official channels:
Planet Payment Support:
Visit the official Planet Payment website for comprehensive vat refund information
Customer support available for refund inquiries and technical issues
Multi-language support for international tourists
Online chat and email support options
Federal Tax Authority Resources:
FTA eService portal provides additional VAT-related information
Official policy updates and regulatory changes
Comprehensive FAQ sections for common tourist questions
Direct contact for complex refund situations
Airport Assistance:
Information desks at abu dhabi airport can provide directions to validation counters
Terminal maps showing planet validation point locations
Airport staff trained to assist with basic tourist refund questions
Emergency contact information for urgent validation issues
Digital Resources:
Tourist refund mobile app includes built-in support features
Online tutorials demonstrating the complete refund process
Video guides available in multiple languages
Social media channels for updates and announcements
The combination of digital tools and human support ensures that tourists can successfully navigate the vat refund system regardless of their technical comfort level or language preferences.
Abu Dhabi’s vat refund system represents a significant benefit for international tourists, offering substantial savings through an efficient digital platform. By understanding the eligibility requirements, following the step-by-step process, and utilizing available digital tools, visitors can successfully claim vat refunds and enhance their overall shopping experience in the UAE capital.
The planet system’s integration with abu dhabi airport and thousands of participating retailers creates a seamless experience that positions Abu Dhabi as a premier destination for tax free shopping. Whether you’re purchasing luxury goods, electronics, or traditional souvenirs, the refund for tourists scheme ensures that you can recover the majority of vat incurred on your purchases.
Plan ahead, shop smart, and take advantage of this valuable program to maximize your travel budget during your visit to Abu Dhabi.