UAE’s FTA launches VAT refund system for tourists

The UAE’s Federal Tax Authority (FTA) has announced the launch of a new VAT refund system for e-commerce retail purchases for tourists during their stay in the UAE, which is considered the world’s first of its kind.

The FTA said that the launch of this new system, in collaboration with Planet, the authorized operator of the VAT refund system for tourists, aligns with the authority’s plans to adopt proactive solutions within the framework of innovation and digital transformation.

The FTA, in collaboration with Planet, has also developed a plan to include platforms and e-commerce retailers registered with the authority in the ‘VAT Refund for Tourists on E-Commerce Purchases’ system during their stay in the UAE.

This step builds upon achievements made in this field over the past years, as the authority had launched a fully digital VAT refund system for tourists over two years ago.

This system is entirely paperless and continuously updated, offering a digital platform that allows tourists to easily scan their passports, complete purchase transactions, and automatically share them in the form of digital invoices.

Tourists can also verify their invoices via the shoppers’ portal, providing a seamless shopping experience with fast and fully digital VAT refund procedures for eligible purchases.

The VAT refund procedures are processed smoothly, quickly, and efficiently, from the moment of purchase until the refund is completed when the tourist departs the country.

The FTA clarified that the system is designed with simple and clear procedures while ensuring compliance with tax legislation. Tourists in the UAE can apply for VAT refunds directly through e-commerce platforms registered with the authority before their purchases are shipped. They can do so by providing their travel document details and relevant personal information to verify their eligibility at the time of purchase.

The VAT refund registration is completed once the tourist’s identity is verified during delivery or online order fulfilment.