Saudi Arabia introduced a VAT refund program for tourists and visitors, allowing eligible shoppers to claim back 15% of their purchases when departing the kingdom. This initiative supports the country’s Vision 2030 tourism goals while making shopping more attractive for international visitors.
Who can claim VAT refunds
The VAT refund program is available to specific categories of visitors:
- Non-resident tourists aged 18 and older
- GCC nationals (until electronic services laws are fully implemented)
- Visitors without Saudi national ID or residence permit
- Tourists who are not crew members on flights, ships, or other departing transportation
Visa requirements for VAT refunds
Multiple visa categories qualify for VAT refunds:
- Tourist visas
- Visit visas
- Business visas
- Any non-resident visa category
Important: Holders of Saudi residence permits (Iqama) are not eligible for VAT refunds.
Purchase requirements and eligible items
Minimum spending threshold
You must spend a minimum of SAR 500 (approximately USD 133) per retailer to qualify for VAT refunds. Up to three invoices from the same retailer on the same day can be combined to reach this threshold.
What items qualify for refunds
The following goods are eligible for VAT refunds:
- Clothing and fashion items
- Electronics and gadgets
- Jewelry and accessories
- Perfumes and cosmetics
- Souvenirs and gifts
- Any tangible goods for personal use
Items not eligible for refunds
These items cannot qualify for VAT refunds:
- Hotel accommodation and lodging
- Food and beverages
- Restaurant meals
- Vehicles, boats, and aircraft
- Tobacco products and alternatives
- Petroleum products and fuel
- Medical services consumed in Saudi Arabia
Important shopping conditions
Before making your purchases, ensure you understand these key conditions:
- Goods must remain unused and in original packaging
- Items must be for personal use only, not commercial purposes
- Departure must not exceed 90 days from purchase date
- Items should remain in your personal luggage when departing
How to shop for VAT refunds
Look for participating stores by:
- Checking for “Tax Free Shopping” or “VAT Refund Available” signage
- Using the Global Blue store locator tool on their website or mobile app
- Asking store staff directly about VAT refund program participation
At the point of sale
Follow these essential steps when making purchases:
- Present your passport before completing the purchase
- Request a VAT exemption form from the retailer
- Receive the original tax invoice showing the VAT amount clearly
- Get the completed VAT refund application form
Global Blue serves as the authorized service provider for Saudi Arabia’s VAT refund program, operating in 53 countries worldwide.
Airport refund process
Available locations
VAT refund verification is currently available at three major international airports:
- King Khalid International Airport (Riyadh)
- King Abdulaziz International Airport (Jeddah)
- King Fahd International Airport (Dammam)
Required documents at departure
Bring these essential documents to the airport:
- Original tax invoices from participating retailers
- Completed VAT refund forms
- Valid passport (same person as on invoices)
- Proof of departure (boarding pass or travel itinerary)
- Physical goods for possible inspection
Refund options and processing
Choose from these refund methods:
- Cash refunds: Up to SAR 5,000 per person per day
- Card refunds: No upper limit specified
- Processing time: 3 business days for card refunds
Note: Jeddah’s North Terminal only offers card refunds, not cash refunds.
Step-by-step claiming process
Before shopping
- Download the Global Blue app
- Identify authorized retailers using the store locator
- Have your passport ready
During your shopping
- Shop only at ZATCA-approved retailers
- Present identification before payment
- Request VAT refund forms for each purchase
- Keep all receipts and forms in a safe place
At the airport
- Arrive early to allow sufficient processing time
- Locate Global Blue verification counters
- Present all required documents
- Choose your refund method (cash or card)
- Complete verification process before departure
After departure
- Track refund status using the Global Blue app
- Receive refund within the specified timeframe
- Contact customer service if any issues arise
Remember to plan your shopping carefully and arrive at the airport with sufficient time to complete the VAT refund process before your departure from Saudi Arabia.