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

The UAE’s Federal Tax Authority (FTA) has launched a fully digital, 100 percent paperless VAT refund app for tourists, Khaleej Times reported. It is now operational at Zayed International, Dubai International and Sharjah International airports. The authority calls it the world’s fastest tax refund experience.

Can tourists in the UAE get a VAT refund?

Yes. Tourists can claim back the 5 percent VAT on most goods and services before leaving the UAE under the Tourist Refund Scheme. The new Planet app lets them complete all refund procedures within minutes before departure, the FTA said.

The platform was launched on Tuesday in collaboration with Planet Tax Free. Planet Tax Free is the exclusive operator of the scheme.

How does the AI-powered VAT refund app work?

The app uses AI-powered technologies to speed up refund processing. This will cut waiting times at the airport. It also aims to reduce procedures and the need for manual intervention, integrate steps and simplify verification requirements.

The app identifies transactions eligible for automatic tax refunds. These are cases where no purchases require inspection under the applicable legislation. It also directs each tourist to the appropriate process based on the nature of their transactions.

If no inspection is required, tourists only need to complete the first two steps. They can finalize the refund request in the app without any in-person verification. The refund amount is then disbursed through the app.

How can tourists use the VAT refund app?

Step one: Tourists must download the Planet app, which is designed for tourist tax refunds in the UAE. They must register by completing verification details. These include a face scan and an image of their passport and bank card.

Once registered, they are eligible for the digital VAT refund experience.

Step two: At the airport, tourists scan the QR code displayed on screens at tourist tax refund service points. The refund procedures then begin immediately through the app.

Step three: If a transaction requires inspection, the app notifies the tourist. The tourist is then automatically directed to Planet’s smart gates. As they pass through, their faces are scanned.

Their identities and transaction details are recognized automatically. They do not need to repeat conventional identification procedures.

Why is the FTA launching the AI-powered VAT refund app?

The launch is part of the FTA’s wider strategy to expand AI adoption. The strategy aims to continuously improve the efficiency of its operational systems. It also advances the authority’s initiatives under the Digital Zero Bureaucracy Programme.