Am I eligible to VAT refund if I buy electronics at duty free stores (specifically Dubai)?

I'm a citizen of European country.

I'm going to visit Dubai.

I plan to buy some electronics at Dubai duty free stores.

Am I eligible to VAT return?

I know I can request VAT returns if I buy goods up-country. But is it the case if things are bought in duty free stores?

duty-free tax-refunds

Best Answer

The United Arab Emirates has not yet instituted a GST refund system for tourists, although one was approved about a month ago and is expected to go into place sometime in the future.

Once this occurs it is likely that GST refunds will be available for purchases made at duty free stores on arrival into the UAE, which do currently include GST.

Purchases made at Duty Free stores on departure (or transit) do NOT currently include GST, and thus obviously no GST refund would be available.

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Can you claim VAT on duty free?

Since 1 January 2021, visitors are no longer be able to purchase items in store in Great Britain under the VAT Retail Export Scheme. For goods purchased before this date, you can still make a claim under the scheme on departure from the UK or EU.

Who is eligible for VAT refund in UAE?

Tourists and visitors can claim refund on VAT paid on purchases they made during their stay in the UAE. Recovery of payment will be done through a fully integrated electronic system which connects retailers registered in the 'Tax Refund for Tourists Scheme' with all ports of entry and exit from the UAE.

Is there VAT in Dubai Duty Free?

The UAE introduced a Value-Added Tax (VAT) of 5% in 2018, but tourists can still enjoy tax-free shopping. Refunds for VAT are only available on goods purchased during your stay in the UAE that will be exported.

Can I claim VAT back on international purchases?

You must claim your VAT refund online, via the authorities in the country where your business is based. If you are eligible for a refund, the authorities will pass on your claim to the authorities in the other country.

DUBAI VAT REFUND | How to shop Tax Free in the UAE | UAE VAT REFUND/FREE SHOPPING

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