The UAE tax refund program has approved refunds worth $871 million for Emiratis building new homes and tourists shopping in the country. The Federal Tax Authority (FTA) confirmed these figures, showcasing the success of its advanced digital systems in delivering efficient services.
Since its launch, the UAE tax refund program has processed nearly 38,000 applications for Emiratis constructing new homes. The total refund value reached AED3.2 billion, showing strong growth compared to the previous year. This reflects a 22.7 percent increase in applications and a 25.7 percent rise in refund values.
Over the past year, 7,000 new applications for Emiratis building homes were approved, totaling AED653 million. In the first six months alone, 3,097 applications resulted in AED284.7 million in refunds. The consistent growth underscores the efficiency of the FTA’s digital platform.
The UAE tax refund program has also expanded its services for tourists. The number of retail outlets connected to the system reached 18,410 across all emirates, growing from 17,720 outlets last year. During the first six months, 697 outlets joined the system, reflecting a 29 percent rise compared to the same period previously.
To further improve tourist experiences, the FTA increased the number of self-service machines for VAT refunds to 96. These machines, located at malls, hotels, and airports, complete transactions in less than two minutes. This step supports the UAE’s goal of offering seamless digital services for visitors.
Khalid Ali Al Bustani, FTA Director General, highlighted that the UAE tax refund program aligns with the nation’s digital transformation strategy. He emphasized the “Maskan” app, which simplifies VAT refund processes for Emiratis through fully paperless procedures.
Al Bustani also noted the success of the world’s first e-commerce VAT refund system for tourists. This innovation allows tourists to scan passports, track invoices, and receive refunds digitally. The system ensures an efficient and convenient shopping experience, strengthening the UAE’s reputation as a leading tourism hub.
The FTA plans additional upgrades to its digital platforms to enhance speed, accuracy, and customer satisfaction. These initiatives reflect the government’s commitment to reducing bureaucracy and creating proactive digital infrastructure.
By continuously improving its systems, the UAE tax refund program supports economic growth, empowers Emiratis, and boosts the tourism sector. Businesses benefit from smoother operations, while tourists and citizens enjoy faster services and greater convenience.
This achievement highlights the UAE’s leadership in adopting advanced technologies to improve public services and drive sustainable development.
