Question 1

How can I claim a refund on my shopping in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

• While at the store, request a 'Tax Free' purchase, valid on a minimum spend of AED250.

• Present your passport or GCC ID (whichever you used to enter the UAE) to be scanned on the payment system.

• The shop assistant will either give you a printed tax invoice with a Planet sticker attached to the back, or a digital tax invoice, accessible through a link sent to you via SMS.

• A digital 'Tax Free' transaction is created. Make sure you visit a Planet counter to validate your purchases BEFORE checking in your luggage, as you may be required to have your goods inspected.

• 'Tax Free' transactions need to be validated within 90 days of the purchase date.

Question 2

Who is eligible for a VAT Refund?

Accepted Answer

Only overseas tourists aged 18 and above are eligible for a VAT refund on eligible purchases made during their visit to the UAE. “Overseas tourist” means any natural person who is not resident in any of the Implementing States and is neither a crew member on a flight or aircraft leaving an Implementing State, nor a ship crew member.

Question 3

Is there a faster way to claim refunds?

Accepted Answer

If you are short on time, head to one of the Planet self-service kiosks at Dubai International Airport (DXB) or Dubai World Central (DWC). Submit the tax invoices, along with your passport and credit card, and the kiosk will process refunds automatically. Planet's self-service kiosks are also available at Dubai Mall, with more locations popping up across the city.

For a full list of terms and conditions, and to stay updated on the latest information visit Planet's website.

Question 4

Is there a maximum refund amount?

Accepted Answer

If you choose to claim your refund on your card or digital wallet (Alipay or WeChat), then there is no maximum refund amount. If you choose to claim your refund in cash, then the maximum refund amount is AED35,000 per trip.

Question 5

Can I fill out paper forms to complete the process?

Accepted Answer

The system is fully digital, so you cannot claim VAT back via paper forms or over the phone.

Question 6

Who can I contact for more information?

Accepted Answer

You can reach out to Planet Tax Free directly using any of the below methods:

Website: www.planetpayment.ae

Email: tourists@planetpayment.com

Contact centre: +971 4 586 4700 (9am to midnight, Monday to Sunday)

Guide to tax-free shopping in Dubai

Frequently asked questions

Now that you know how to claim your refund, let's shop.

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