Since 2018, the UAE charges 5% VAT on most purchases. As a tourist, you can claim this back at the airport when you leave. On a shopping trip of AED 5,000, that's AED 250 back in your pocket. Here's the step-by-step process.
The UAE uses the Planet Tax Free system (similar to Global Blue in Europe). The process: 1. Shop at participating stores — look for the "Tax Free Shopping" sign 2. Spend AED 250+ per receipt at a single shop 3. Show your passport at checkout to get a tax-free form 4. Scan your forms at the airport before departure 5. Receive your refund via credit card or cash Refund amount: You get 85% of the 5% VAT back (the 15% is Planet's processing fee). So on AED 1,000 spent, you get approximately AED 42.50 back. Important: You must have entered the UAE as a tourist and be departing within 90 days of purchase.
Before check-in: 1. Go to the Planet Tax Free validation kiosks in the departure hall 2. Scan your passport 3. Scan each tax-free receipt/tag 4. The system validates your purchases Customs verification: For purchases over AED 7,000, you may need to show the items to customs officers. Keep purchased items accessible (not in checked luggage) until after validation. Refund options: Credit card — refund processed in 5-10 business days Cash — available at Planet counters (small processing fee) Kiosk locations: Dubai Airport Terminal 1: Departures, before immigration Dubai Airport Terminal 3: Departures, before immigration Abu Dhabi Airport: Departures hall Pro tip: Arrive 30-45 minutes earlier than normal to allow time for the refund process, especially during peak travel periods.
Get your 5% VAT back when shopping in Dubai. Step-by-step guide to tax-free shopping: eligible purchases, minimum spend, airport refund process, and Planet kiosks.