Saudi Arabia tourist VAT refund

Tourists Can Claim 15% VAT

Riyadh: Saudi Arabia has officially launched a VAT refund programme that enables non-resident tourists and GCC nationals aged 18 and above to reclaim 15% of VAT on eligible purchases made during their stay. This initiative is a key part of the country’s Vision 2030 plan to enhance retail and tourism experiences

Scope and Eligibility Criteria

The scheme applies at 1,442 authorised retail outlets across Saudi Arabia and requires a minimum spend of SAR 500 per claim. The purchased items must be unused, intended for personal use only, and must be exported within 90 days of the purchase date

Excluded categories include:

• Accommodation and meals

• Vehicles, boats, and aircraft

• Food and beverages

• Tobacco products

• Petrol and petroleum derivatives

How to Start the Process

When shopping, travellers must present their passport or GCC ID at the checkout to receive a VAT exemption form. They may combine up to three invoices from the same retailer on the same day to meet the minimum spending threshold

Airport Verification and Refund Methods

Before departing Saudi Arabia, tourists must have their forms validated at one of 18 designated kiosks across three international airports:

• 10 points at King Khalid International Airport (Riyadh)

• 4 points at King Abdulaziz International Airport (Jeddah)

• 4 points at King Fahd International Airport (Dammam)

Refunds can be received either by card payment or cash, subject to a cash limit of SAR 5,000 per traveller per day. Note: cash refunds are not available at Jeddah’s North Terminal

Supporting Vision 2030 Goals

The VAT refund initiative supports Saudi Arabia’s broader economic strategy under Vision 2030, which aims to:

• Diversify the economy

• Boost retail spend

• Attract more global visitors

• Encourage longer stays and higher expenditure by tourists

Officials expect that smoother tax-free shopping experiences will strengthen Saudi Arabia’s position as a leading global destination for travellers, especially in the luxury and high-street retail segments.

Practical Tips for Visitors

A recent guide outlines practical steps for claiming refunds:

• Verify store eligibility: Look for “tax‑free” signs or confirm participation at checkout

• Keep receipts organized: Combine invoices if needed

• Ensure export eligibility: Carry the goods unused and ready to show at exit

• Follow airport validation protocols: Don’t skip the kiosk check before departure

The Broader Tourism Landscape

This VAT programme is among several initiatives launched in recent years to elevate Saudi Arabia’s global tourism profile. Other complementary measures include streamlined hotel licensing, cultural events, and relaxed visa policies.

Market observers predict that VAT-free shopping could become a significant draw for international visitors, aligning Saudi Arabia more closely with regional neighbours offering similar benefits.

Summary Table – VAT Refund at a Glance

Why This Matters

This VAT program marks a significant step forward in Saudi Arabia’s efforts to reshape its retail environment and expand global visitation. By removing the burden of VAT for eligible shoppers, the Kingdom is aligning its retail incentives with international competitors and signaling its evolution as a tourism hub.

With over 1,400 participating outlets, visitors across Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam—and eventually other cities—can now shop with added tax benefits. This in turn is expected to stimulate consumer spending, support local retailers, and reinforce Saudi Arabia’s strides toward a more diverse, visitor-centric economy

Disclaimer:

This article is based on official government announcements and recent news coverage. Readers should consult official sources for the latest procedures and eligibility details

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