On 5 August 2026, the UAE Federal Tax Authority (FTA) confirmed that the number of retail outlets connected to the Digital Tourist VAT Refund System has surpassed 19,300 across the country. The system, operated in partnership with Planet, enables eligible tourists to claim VAT refunds on eligible purchases electronically at participating outlets, streamlining the refund process and enhancing the UAE’s appeal as a shopping destination.
Key Takeaways
- Network Expansion: The rapid growth to over 19,300 connected outlets reflects widespread retailer adoption, driven by the FTA’s awareness campaigns and the system’s user-friendly integration with point-of-sale terminals.
- Tourist Experience Enhancement: Digital validation at the point of sale reduces paperwork, accelerates refund processing at departure ports, and aligns with the UAE’s digital transformation agenda under the EmaraTax platform.
- Compliance Obligations: Retailers must maintain accurate transaction records, issue valid tax invoices, and ensure their POS systems are correctly configured to transmit refund data to the FTA in real time.
Disclaimer: This article is compiled and summarized by the AI based on publicly available information and is for general information purposes only. It does not constitute any form of formal tax advice, legal opinion, or basis for performance. Please consult a qualified professional tax advisor or legal counsel for tax advice.
Source: Read Official Announcement