Tourist VAT Refund on Gold in the UAE
Non-resident visitors can reclaim most of the 5% VAT paid on gold and jewellery bought in the UAE, through the Tax Refund for Tourists Scheme operated with Planet.
Who and what qualifies
- Non-resident tourists only, UAE residents and operating flight crew cannot claim.
- Each tax-free transaction must be at least AED 250.
- Buy from shops enrolled with Planet, look for the “Tax Free” signage and ask for a tax-free tag at purchase.
- Goods must be exported within 90 days of purchase.
How to claim at the airport
Validate your tax-free purchases at the point of exit before check-in. Refunds go to a card or digital wallet within about 9 days, or in cash immediately (subject to limits). Travellers typically recoup up to around 85% of the VAT after processing fees.
Worth doing?
On a large gold purchase the refund is meaningful, 5% VAT on a five-figure buy is a real sum. Keep the piece, tag and receipt together and allow time at the airport.
FAQ
How much VAT can a tourist get back on gold in Dubai?
Up to roughly 85% of the 5% VAT paid, after Planet’s processing fee.
Is there a minimum spend?
Yes, at least AED 250 per tax-free transaction.
Confirm current thresholds and fees with the UAE Federal Tax Authority (tax.gov.ae) and Planet before you travel.
Estimate your refund
Enter your receipt total below to see the VAT inside it. The tool then subtracts the operator cut and per-tag fee. What remains is a realistic payout.
| Price before VAT | — |
| VAT inside the price (5%) | — |
| Operator cut and fee | — |
| Estimated refund | — |
An estimate only. The refund operator sets its own service cut and per-tag fee, and both can change. You must be an eligible visitor, request a tax-free tag in store, and validate it before leaving the country.
Common reasons a claim fails
- No tax free tag was requested at the time of purchase.
- The claim was not validated before leaving the country.
- The goods were already worn or the packaging was opened.
- The shop was not registered in the refund scheme.
Plan the airport step
Validate before check in if the gold travels in hold luggage. Carry the invoice and the items together. Allow extra time during busy travel periods.
For the tax rules themselves, see our gold VAT guide. To compare total cost against home, read is gold cheaper in Dubai.