What is the minimum purchase for tax free shopping in the UAE?

You must spend at least AED 250 (including VAT) at a single participating retailer. Look for the 'Tax Free Shopping' sign in stores.

What is the VAT rate in the UAE?

The UAE has a flat 5% VAT rate on most goods and services. There are no reduced rates; some essential items like certain food and healthcare may be zero-rated or exempt.

How do I claim my VAT refund in Dubai or Abu Dhabi?

Ask the retailer to tag your purchase with a tax-free tag. At the airport, validate your tags at the Planet self-service kiosks before check-in. Your refund is processed to your credit card or can be received in cash.

Can I claim a refund when shopping in Dubai Mall or Mall of the Emirates?

Yes; most major retailers in Dubai's shopping malls participate in the tax-free scheme. Look for the Planet Tax Free logo or ask the store if they offer tax-free shopping.

Is the refund amount worth it with only 5% VAT?

While the 5% VAT rate is low, it can still add up on luxury purchases. On a AED 10,000 shopping trip, you could get back around AED 400 after fees; enough to cover a nice dinner.

Last updated: 28.03.2026

UAE Tax Free Shopping Calculator 2026

Calculate your VAT refund on purchases in the United Arab Emirates. Tourists can reclaim the 5% VAT on qualifying purchases over AED 250 through the Planet Tax Free system.

This calculator provides estimates based on the UAE's 5% VAT rate. Actual refund amounts depend on processing fees. The UAE's tax-free scheme operates through Planet Tax Free at participating retailers.

Calculate Your United Arab Emirates Tax RefundUpdates instantly

Enter your purchase amount in United Arab Emirates. Standard VAT rate: 5%. Minimum spend: AED 250.00.

Example: AED 750.00 purchase in United Arab Emirates

AED 30.35estimated refund (4.05% back)

VAT included: AED 35.71After processing fee: −AED 5.36

Enter your actual purchase amount above for a precise calculation.

Not eligible for tax refund

×Services (hotels, restaurants, transport, tours)
×Digital goods and downloads
×Goods consumed in-country (food eaten on-site)
×Motor vehicles and boats
×Goods for commercial or business use
×Goods shipped directly by the retailer (already VAT-free)

Compare tax free refunds across 46 countries→

Frequently asked questions

Compare with other countries

Singapore

Turkey

Thailand

Source: https://tax.gov.ae/en/taxes/vat.tax.free.for.tourists.aspx

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