- Tourists in Saudi Arabia can get a full refund on the 15% VAT for eligible purchases over SAR 500 (~USD 133).
- Refunds apply only to goods, not services, and must be made at ZATCA-approved retailers.
- Receipts, passport, and refund forms must be presented at the airport within 90 days of purchase.
- Use Global Blue’s app or site to find participating stores and claim refunds via cash or card at authorised airport counters/kiosks.
Visitors to Saudi Arabia are now entitled to reclaim the full 15% Value Added Tax (VAT) on eligible retail purchases made during their stay. This newly implemented VAT refund program, effective from April 18, aims to enhance Saudi Arabia’s appeal as a tourist and shopping destination. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help travelers understand the eligibility, process, rules, and important details, so they can easily claim their VAT refund before leaving the Kingdom.
Understanding the VAT refund policy
Saudi Arabia’s Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA) has officially introduced a VAT refund system for international tourists and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nationals. This move allows visitors to reclaim the 15% VAT paid on qualifying purchases, helping to support the Kingdom’s larger strategy of attracting global tourism and stimulating spending in its retail sector.
- Effective Date: The VAT refund policy has been in effect since April 18.
- Applicable VAT Rate: Eligible purchases are effectively charged 0% VAT at the point of sale from approved retailers. The 15% VAT paid is refunded later via authorized providers.
Scope of Eligibility:
- Non-residents aged 18 and above are eligible.
- GCC nationals are included until new electronic services laws are implemented.
- Shoppers who are not a member of cabin or crew on a flight, aircraft, ship, or any other means of transportation departing from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
- A minimum spend of SAR 500 (approx.$133) per retailer (can be combined from up to three invoices on the same day) is required.
This VAT exemption only applies to goods and excludes services, meaning that accommodation, food, beverages, tobacco, vehicles, boats, aircraft, and petroleum products are not eligible.
Where and how to shop
To benefit from the refund, shopping must be done only at ZATCA-authorized retail outlets that are part of the tax refund system. As of now, there are:
- 1,442 authorized retailers across the Kingdom.
- These include major outlets in tourism-heavy cities such as Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam.
At the point of sale, tourists must:
- Inform the retailer that they intend to claim a VAT refund.
- Present a valid passport or GCC ID.
- Request the VAT exemption form.
- Receive the original invoice, which must clearly show the VAT amount.
- Receive the VAT refund application form.
Important:
- The goods must be unused, strictly for personal use, and exported within 90 days of the purchase date.
How to spot ZATCA-approved retailers for VAT refunds
If you’re planning to claim back the 15% VAT on your shopping in Saudi Arabia, one of the most important steps is to make sure you’re buying from the right stores, those officially partnered with the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA). Only these approved retailers are authorized to issue the documents needed for your VAT refund.Here’s how to make sure you’re shopping at an eligible store:
1. Look for “tax free” or “VAT refund” signs
Most ZATCA-approved retailers will clearly display signage that says “Tax Free Shopping” or “VAT Refund Available,” usually at the entrance, checkout counter, or both. This is your visual cue that the store is part of the VAT refund system and can provide the proper tax-free form for your purchases.
2. Ask the store staff before you buy
If you’re unsure, just ask. Most staff in major malls, international fashion boutiques, electronics stores, and tourist-friendly shops will know whether their store participates in the refund program. It only takes a moment to confirm and could save you from missing out on your refund later
3. Use the Global Blue store locator
Saudi Arabia’s VAT refund process is powered by Global Blue, a well-known tax refund operator. To plan your shopping more efficiently:
- Visit the Global Blue website or download the Global Blue mobile app.
- Use the store locator tool to search for participating retailers by city, mall, or category.
- This tool is updated regularly and is the most practical way to find approved stores across Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, and other cities.
4. Stay updated with ZATCA notices
From time to time, ZATCA publishes official announcements or lists highlighting new or major retailers added to the VAT refund program. While this isn’t always the most current source, it’s still worth checking their official website for any updates.
The airport process – claiming the refund
Tourists must complete their VAT refund at the airport upon departure. Currently, 18 VAT verification points are set up across three international airports, and their locations, along with refund offices, can also be found using the Global Blue locator tool.
- Riyadh – King Khalid International Airport: 10 counters
- Jeddah – King Abdulaziz International Airport: 4 counters
- Dammam – King Fahd International Airport: 4 counters
Note: The North Terminal at Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz Airport currently does not offer cash refunds. Travelers departing from this terminal must opt for card refunds only.Required Documents for Refund:
- Original tax invoices from participating retailers
- Completed VAT refund form
- Valid passport
- Proof of departure (boarding pass or travel itinerary)
Refund modes:
- Cash refunds: Capped at SAR 5,000 per person per day
- Card refunds: No stated limit
Refunds are processed after ZATCA verifies the validity of documents and purchases. Tourists and service providers are jointly responsible for the correctness of the refund claim. Any improper claims may be subject to review or denial.
Key tips and final reminders
Before heading to the airport, ensure the following:
- All documents are in order: Original receipts, forms, passport, proof of travel.
- All purchases are made within 90 days of departure.
- All goods are eligible and unused.
- Check the availability of cash vs card refund options based on your airport terminal.
Summary of eligibility and rules:
| Criteria | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Age | 18 years or older |
| Residency | Non-residents only (no Saudi ID or residence permit) |
| Minimum purchase | SAR 500 (can combine 3 invoices from same retailer on same day) |
| Goods only | Services, food, and other specified items excluded |
| Export deadline | Within 90 days of purchase |
| Refund limit (cash) | SAR 5,000 per person per day |
| Refund locations | 18 verification points at Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam airports |
| Required docs | Passport, proof of departure, original receipts, completed refund form |
Saudi Arabia’s VAT refund system is a tourist-friendly reform aimed at creating a seamless shopping and travel experience. By following the steps outlined, retaining all documentation, and shopping at participating outlets, visitors can ensure a hassle-free refund of the 15% VAT paid, maximizing value while exploring the Kingdom.1. How do I know if a store is part of the VAT refund program? Look for “Tax Free” or “VAT Refund” signage at the store, ask the staff directly, or use the Global Blue app or website to find approved retailers.Q. What purchases are actually eligible for a VAT refund? Only tangible goods bought for personal use, such as clothing or electronics, are eligible. Food, hotel stays, tobacco, and vehicles are excluded.Q. What documents do I need to claim my VAT refund at the airport? You must show your original tax invoices, completed refund form, passport, and proof of departure (like a boarding pass or travel itinerary).Q. Can I get my refund in cash?Yes, but cash refunds are limited to SAR 5,000 per person per day. If your refund is higher, the amount will be split between cash (up to SAR 5,000) and the rest credited to your payment card, with no upper limit on card refunds.Note: At Jeddah Airport’s North Terminal, only card refunds are available, no cash is issued there.Q. What happens if I lose my receipts or forget to get the refund form? Unfortunately, you won’t be able to claim the refund. Only receipts from ZATCA-approved retailers with the proper forms are accepted at the refund counters.
