UAE Federal Tax Authority Launches AI-Powered VAT Refund App for Tourists at Major Airports
The UAE's Federal Tax Authority (FTA), in collaboration with Planet Tax Free, has launched a new AI-powered mobile application to streamline VAT refunds for tourists departing the country.
The UAE has introduced a new artificial intelligence (AI)-powered mobile application, developed by the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) in partnership with Planet Tax Free, to simplify value-added tax (VAT) refunds for tourists. This paperless system is now available at Zayed International Airport, Dubai International Airport, and Sharjah International Airport, forming part of the government's Digital Zero Bureaucracy Programme and wider AI adoption goals.
How the Planet App Works
Tourists can download the Planet app and complete a registration process that involves a face scan and uploading images of their passport and bank card. To initiate a refund, users scan VAT refund QR codes at designated airport service points.
- Verification Process: The app streamlines verification, reducing the need for manual checks. For purchases requiring additional inspection, tourists receive in-app notifications directing them to Planet's smart gates. Facial recognition technology at these gates verifies identity and retrieves transaction details automatically.
- Paperless Refunds: Travellers whose purchases do not require physical inspection can complete their refund requests entirely within the application, receiving approved refunds disbursed directly through the app.
This initiative aims to provide a hassle-free refund experience, allowing eligible international visitors to reclaim the 5 percent VAT paid on qualifying purchases within minutes before their departure, subject to scheme eligibility and applicable fees.
Questions, answered
- Which airports support the new Planet app for VAT refunds?
- The new Planet app for VAT refunds is currently available at Zayed International Airport, Dubai International Airport, and Sharjah International Airport for departing tourists.
- What is the process for tourists to use the Planet app?
- Tourists must download the Planet app, register with a face scan, and upload images of their passport and bank card. They then scan VAT refund QR codes at airport service points to start the refund process, with some transactions requiring a facial recognition scan at smart gates.
- What is the standard VAT rate in the UAE that tourists can reclaim?
- Eligible international visitors can reclaim the standard **5 percent VAT** paid on qualifying purchases under the UAE's Tourist Refund Scheme, though refunds are subject to eligibility and fees.
- Who developed the new VAT refund app?
- The new VAT refund app was launched by the UAE's Federal Tax Authority (FTA) in collaboration with Planet Tax Free as part of the government's Digital Zero Bureaucracy Programme.
This brief was summarised and rewritten by Gaia Living from public reporting. Figures and details reflect the original sources.
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