We have some great news for you. Tourists visiting the UAE are now able to claim back Value Added Tax (VAT) at designated refund points in Terminal 3, Dubai International airport, 24 hours a day.

What is Tax Free Shopping?

The UAE Federal Tax Authority introduced a VAT of 5% in January 2018, and Tax Free Shopping was launched in November 2018.

Tax Free Shopping allows tourists to obtain a VAT refund on items purchased for export (subject to terms and conditions), providing they validate their purchases according to local rules.

Locations in Terminal 3

First & Business Class check-in – Next to the baggage wrapping counter at the entrance

Economy Class check-in – Between areas 3 and 4
T3 airside – After the security checkpoint, next to the APM platform.

Eligibility

1. The customer must not be a resident of the UAE and be over 18 years of age.
2. The customer must be exporting the goods from the UAE in an unused state (either in full or in part).
3. Certain goods must be checked, either landside or airside, as defined by the FTA (Federal Tax Authority).
4. The goods must leave the UAE accompanied by the customer. Cabin crew members on flights leaving the UAE are not eligible.

How to claim the refund

1. The customer must bring the goods and Tax Free tagged receipt(s) to the airport and present them at one of the Planet Validation points, either landside or airside.
2. Once validated, the customer can select a refund by cash or card. Card refunds will be processed there and then, cash refunds will be processed through one of the approved Foreign Exchange operators at the airport.