UAE launches AI-powered VAT refund platform cutting tourist processing to one day

The Federal Tax Authority launched a digital VAT refund platform on 20 October 2026, operational at Zayed International Airport, Dubai International Airport and Sharjah International Airport. The platform reduces tourist tax refund processing time to one business day, compared with nine days previously, according to Abdulaziz Al Mulla, director general of the Federal Tax Authority. The authority deployed the system in collaboration with Planet Tax Free, the authorised operator of the UAE's Tourist Refund Scheme, which allows tourists to recover the 5 per cent VAT on eligible purchases.

Platform uses facial recognition and automated verification#

The platform uses AI-powered facial recognition technology and a mobile application to complete verification and data entry. Tourists register in the Planet app by completing a face scan and uploading images of their passport and bank card. At the airport, tourists scan a QR code displayed at refund service points to begin the refund process through the application. Where transactions require inspection, the app directs tourists to smart gates that scan their faces and automatically recognise their identities and transaction details. The AI identifies transactions eligible for automatic refunds without inspection and directs tourists to the appropriate process based on the nature of their transactions.

Three-step process eliminates manual intervention#

The refund process operates in three steps. First, tourists download the Planet app and complete registration with verification details including face scan, passport image and bank card image. Second, tourists scan the QR code at airport refund service points to initiate the refund procedure. Third, if inspection is required, tourists proceed to Planet's smart gates for automated identity verification. Where no inspection is required, tourists complete the refund request directly through the application without in-person verification, and the refund amount is disbursed through the app. The platform eliminates the need to repeat conventional identification procedures at each stage.

System operational at three airports under Digital Zero Bureaucracy Programme#

The platform is now operational at Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi, Dubai International Airport and Sharjah International Airport. The launch forms part of the Federal Tax Authority's strategy to expand AI adoption and advance initiatives under the Digital Zero Bureaucracy Programme. Planet Tax Free operates as the exclusive operator of the UAE's Tourist Refund Scheme. The authority introduced a system in 2024 enabling tourists to request VAT refunds through registered e-commerce platforms by submitting travel document details at the time of purchase before orders are shipped.