VAT Refund for Tourists Calculator
Estimate what you'll get back on UAE shopping under the current 87% refund rate, before you head to the airport.
Based on the UAE Tourist Refund Scheme operated by Planet on behalf of the Federal Tax Authority: an 87% VAT refund (13% administrative fee, set by FTA Decision No. 9 of 2023) less a fixed AED 3.60 fee per validated tax-free tag (reduced from AED 4.80 under FTA Decision No. 11 of 2026, effective 12 July 2026). Minimum eligible spend is AED 250 per transaction. This is an estimate — your exact refund is confirmed by Planet at validation.
How the UAE tourist VAT refund works
| Rule | Current figure |
|---|---|
| UAE VAT rate | 5% |
| Refund share of VAT paid | 87% (13% admin fee) |
| Fixed fee per tax-free tag | AED 3.60 (from 12 July 2026) |
| Minimum spend per transaction | AED 250, VAT-inclusive |
| Cash refund cap | AED 35,000 per tourist / 24 hours |
| Export deadline | 90 days from purchase date |
Ask for a tax-free tag at the till when you pay, keep the original invoice, and validate everything at a Planet desk or self-service kiosk before you check in your luggage — goods must still be with you at that point, unvalidated or already-checked-in items can't be claimed.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much VAT can tourists claim back in the UAE?
Tourists recover 87% of the 5% VAT paid on eligible purchases, after a 13% administrative fee. A further fixed fee of AED 3.60 is deducted for each validated tax-free tag. The remaining 13%/AED 3.60 combination is retained by Planet Tax Free, the scheme's operator.
Why do some websites say the refund is 85%, not 87%?
The scheme launched in 2018 with an 85% refund (a 15% administrative fee). FTA Decision No. 9 of 2023 lowered the fee to 13%, raising the refund to 87% from July 2023 onward. Many older guides still quote the outdated 85% figure.
What is the minimum purchase amount to qualify?
AED 250 (VAT-inclusive), spent with the same retailer in a single transaction. You can't combine receipts from different stores to reach the minimum.
How do I actually get the refund?
Ask for a tax-free tag at the till when you pay. Before departure, validate your tagged invoices and goods at a Planet desk or self-service kiosk (available at airports, seaports and land borders), then choose a cash or card refund.
Is there a limit on how much I can get back in cash?
Yes — cash refunds are capped at AED 35,000 per tourist within a 24-hour period. There's no cap on refunds paid to a credit or debit card.
How long do I have to export the goods and claim?
Goods must be exported within 90 days of the purchase date shown on the tax invoice. Once your transaction is validated on exit, you have up to one year to actually claim the refund.