UAE launches paperless, AI-powered VAT refund app for tourists

The UAE’s Federal Tax Authority (FTA) has launched a fully digital and paperless platform at several major airports, aiming to offer tourists a faster and more convenient tax refund experience.

The new platform uses artificial intelligence (AI) to speed up refund processing and reduce airport waiting times. According to the authority, tourists can complete their tax refund procedures within minutes before departure.

Launched on Tuesday in collaboration with Planet Tax Free, the system is now operational at Zayed International Airport, Dubai International Airport and Sharjah International Airport.

Planet Tax Free is the exclusive operator of the UAE’s Tourist Refund Scheme, which allows eligible tourists to claim refunds on the 5% value-added tax (VAT) paid on most goods and services before leaving the country.

How Tourists Can Use the Digital Tax Refund App

The Planet app simplifies the refund process by reducing paperwork, minimising manual intervention and making verification easier. Tourists can follow three steps to complete their refund procedures.

Step 1: Download and Register on the Planet App

Tourists must download the Planet app designed for UAE tourist tax refunds and complete the registration process.

They need to provide the required verification details, including a facial scan and images of their passport and bank card. Once registration is complete, they can access the digital tax refund service.

Step 2: Scan the QR Code at the Airport

After arriving at the airport, tourists must scan the QR code displayed on screens at designated tourist tax refund service points.

Scanning the code immediately starts the refund process through the application.

Step 3: Complete Additional Verification if Required

If a transaction requires inspection, the app will notify the tourist and direct them to Planet’s smart gates.

At the gate, facial recognition technology identifies the tourist and automatically verifies their identity and transaction details. This eliminates the need to repeat conventional identification procedures.

AI Technology Speeds Up VAT Refund Requests

The AI-powered platform identifies transactions eligible for automatic refunds when purchases do not require further inspection under applicable regulations.

It also guides tourists through the appropriate process based on their transaction details.

If no inspection is required, tourists can complete the refund process by following only the first two steps. They can submit their refund requests directly through the app without in-person verification.

The refund amount is then disbursed through the application, making the process faster and more convenient.

UAE Expands AI and Digital Government Services

The launch supports the Federal Tax Authority’s broader strategy to expand AI adoption and improve the efficiency of its operational systems.

The initiative also contributes to the UAE’s Digital Zero Bureaucracy Programme, which aims to simplify government procedures, reduce administrative burdens and improve the experience of people using public services.

With the new platform available at three major international airports, eligible tourists can benefit from a more streamlined VAT refund process before departing the UAE.