The United Arab Emirates has dramatically accelerated its tourist VAT refund process, cutting the wait from roughly nine days to a single business day. The Federal Tax Authority (FTA), in partnership with Planet—the authorised operator of the UAE's VAT Refund Scheme for Tourists—has rolled out an AI-driven digital platform at Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi, Dubai International Airport (DXB), and Sharjah International Airport.
The new system leverages facial recognition, digital verification, and automated data processing through Planet's upgraded mobile app, eliminating paperwork and streamlining the refund journey for international visitors. This move is part of the UAE's broader Digital Zero Bureaucracy Programme and its national AI strategy, which aim to simplify government services through technology and stronger public-private collaboration.
Faster refunds, stronger tourism appeal
The initiative underscores the UAE's ambition to rank among the world's fastest destinations for tourist tax refunds, reinforcing its status as a global shopping and tourism hub. By reducing refund times to one business day, the country hopes to enhance the visitor experience and encourage higher spending among tourists.
Officials launched the platform at events held at Zayed International Airport and Dubai International Airport, attended by senior government and aviation figures, including Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai; Abdulaziz Mohammed Al Mulla, Director General of the FTA; Sultan Al Dhaheri, Senior Vice President – Operations at Abu Dhabi Airports; and Majed Al Joker, Chief Operating Officer of Dubai Airports.
Abdulaziz Mohammed Al Mulla highlighted the significance of the AI-powered platform, stating that it represents a major leap forward in the tourist tax refund experience, particularly at the final stage of a visitor's trip. He emphasised that the initiative reflects the UAE's focus on customer-centric government services, digital integration, and reducing administrative burdens, while bolstering the country's competitiveness as a tourism and shopping destination.
As of October 2026, tourists will receive VAT refunds on purchases within one business day, compared with the previous nine-day wait, positioning the UAE among the fastest countries globally for tourist tax refunds.
The latest development builds on the FTA's earlier digitalisation efforts, including a fully digital tourist VAT refund system and a facility for eligible e-commerce purchases made by tourists during their stay. Together, these initiatives aim to simplify tax-free shopping, enhance visitor convenience, and strengthen the UAE's position as a leading destination for international travellers.
For travel professionals, this move could influence shopping behaviour and itinerary planning. Tour operators and agents may highlight the streamlined refund process as a selling point for UAE packages, while retailers and airports stand to benefit from increased tourist spending. The UAE's commitment to digital innovation in travel services is also evident in other sectors, such as Emirates' accessibility tech showcase and dnata's expanded services at Dubai International.
The AI-powered refund platform is expected to set a new benchmark for tax-free shopping in the region, potentially prompting other Gulf states to follow suit. As the UAE continues to invest in cutting-edge travel technology, it remains a key market for luxury retail and tourism, with attractions like Yas Bay's new bungee jump adding to its appeal.
