Saudi Arabia has just launched a value‑added tax (VAT) refund programme for international tourists and GCC nationals, allowing eligible visitors to reclaim the Kingdom’s 15% VAT on qualifying purchases. The scheme, which went live in August 2025, is part of a wider effort to enhance the visitor experience and boost the country’s appeal as a shopping destination.
Step 1 – Check your eligibility
- You must be a non‑resident tourist or a GCC national.
- You must be 18 years or older.
- Your total spend at a participating store must be at least SAR 500.
- Purchases must be unused, for personal use only, and exported within 90 days.
- Certain goods are excluded:
- Accommodation and meals
- Vehicles, boats, aircraft
- Food and beverages
- Tobacco products
- Petroleum derivatives
Step 2 – Shop at participating outlets
- Look for the “Tax‑Free Shopping” sign at one of the 1,442 authorised retailers.
- Present your passport or GCC ID at the time of purchase.
- Request a VAT exemption form.
- You can combine up to three invoices from the same store on the same day to reach the spending threshold.
Step 3 – Validate your VAT form before departure
- Present your VAT form(s), passport or GCC ID, and the unused goods at a verification point.
- Locations currently include:
- King Khalid International Airport, Riyadh – 10 points
- King Abdulaziz International Airport, Jeddah – 4 points (no cash refunds at the North Terminal)
- King Fahd International Airport, Dammam – 4 points
Step 4 – Receive your refund
- Refunds are available to your payment card or in cash.
- Cash refunds have a daily limit of SAR 5,000 per person.
- Allow extra time at the airport for processing.
Why Saudi Arabia introduced the VAT refund scheme
The VAT refund programme is part of Saudi Vision 2030’s tourism strategy, aimed at attracting 70 million international visitors annually by 2030 and diversifying the economy.
By offering tax‑free shopping, Saudi Arabia is aligning with global retail hubs such as Dubai, Singapore, and leading European capitals. The aim is to encourage higher spending, lengthen visitor stays, and make the country a stronger competitor for inbound tourism and retail sales.
The scheme initially covers purchases at over 1,400 outlets and verification points at the three busiest international airports. Future plans include expanding to land border crossings and sea ports, adding more participating retailers, and introducing faster, more integrated digital processing for claims.
For travellers, it means more value from shopping in the Kingdom — and a clear sign that Saudi Arabia is intent on building a world‑class tourism and retail experience.
Discover more: https://my.gov.sa/en/services/20324
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Read also: Saudi Arabia to launch VAT refund system for tourists in 2025
