UAE Tourist VAT Refund Network Expands to Over 19,300 Retail Outlets

UAE, 19 August, 2026: The Federal Tax Authority (FTA) has reported continued growth in the UAE’s Digital Tourist VAT Refund System, with the number of connected retail outlets reaching approximately 19,340 by June 2026—a 5.9% increase compared with the same period in 2025.

During the first half of 2026, 449 new outlets joined the system, bringing the total number added over the past two and a half years to 2,983.

The number of self-service VAT refund kiosks also increased to 100, up 7.5% year-on-year. The kiosks are available at selected shopping centres, hotels and departure points across the UAE.

The FTA highlighted several recent digital enhancements, including the integration of Noon for eligible online purchases, allowing tourists to claim VAT refunds digitally. Planet, the approved system operator, continues to support the expansion of the service.

The upgraded Planet smart application now supports 12 languages, improving accessibility for international visitors.

The FTA noted that tourists from India, Russia, Türkiye, China and the United States were among the largest groups benefiting from the Tourist VAT Refund Service during the first half of 2026.