Saudi Arabia has rapidly become one of the most popular destinations in the Middle East, drawing millions of visitors each year for leisure, shopping, and religious travel. To make the experience more rewarding, the Kingdom has launched a 15 percent Value Added Tax (VAT) refund programme for international tourists.
Introduced by the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA) in partnership with Global Blue, this scheme allows eligible visitors to reclaim VAT paid on qualifying purchases made during their stay. The programme became effective on April 18 and is now available at major airports across the country.
This article explains everything tourists need to know about the Saudi Arabia VAT refund process, including eligibility, documentation, and refund options.
Where Can Tourists Claim VAT Refunds?
The refund service is currently offered at three international airports equipped with Global Blue kiosks:
- King Khalid International Airport (Riyadh)
- King Abdulaziz International Airport (Jeddah)
- King Fahd International Airport (Dammam)
These facilities are designed to handle VAT refunds efficiently, allowing tourists to complete the process before departure.
Who Is Eligible for the VAT Refund?
To qualify for a refund, travelers must meet the following conditions:
- You must be a non-Saudi citizen.
- You must not hold permanent residency in Saudi Arabia.
- You must be 18 years or older.
- Airline, ship, and transport crew members are excluded.
- You must not appear on any prohibited list maintained by ZATCA.
These rules ensure that the refund applies only to genuine tourists visiting the Kingdom.
Which Purchases Are Eligible for Refund?
Refunds apply only to goods purchased from Global Blue-certified stores, which display official signage confirming participation in the scheme.
Eligible items:
- Goods purchased for personal use
- Products unused during your stay in Saudi Arabia
- Items carried in personal luggage when leaving the country
Ineligible items:
- Food, beverages, and restaurant bills
- Hotel stays and hospitality services
- Tobacco and related products
- Fuel, oil, and gas derivatives
- Vehicles, boats, and aircraft
Only tangible goods intended for export are eligible for VAT refunds.
Minimum Purchase Requirement
To claim a refund, your total purchase value must exceed SAR 500 (about AED 489).
You may combine up to three invoices from the same store on the same day to meet this minimum amount.
Always request a Tourist Tax Refund Invoice at the time of purchase.
Step-by-Step Guide to Claim Your VAT Refund
1. Shop at Certified Stores
Look for the Global Blue sign before making a purchase. Present your passport or GCC national ID so that your details are recorded correctly. The store will issue a Tourist Tax Refund Invoice.
Alternatively, you can use the Global Blue app to scan your digital QR code and automatically link your purchases to your travel documents.
2. Customs Verification at the Airport
Before leaving Saudi Arabia, visit the Global Blue self-service kiosk located in the airport’s departure area.
- Submit your tax-refund request with the issued invoice.
- Validate your purchase within 90 days of the transaction.
- Keep your goods in hand luggage for possible inspection.
For high-value items such as jewelry or watches, you may be asked to obtain manual customs approval.
3. Select Your Refund Method
After verification, you can choose how to receive your refund:
- Cash refund: Up to SAR 5,000 per person per day.
- Credit or digital card refund: For higher amounts, funds are transferred to your card within three business days.
Tips for a Smooth Process
- Keep goods in your carry-on baggage for inspection if required.
- Retain all invoices, refund forms, and travel documents.
- Allow extra time at the airport for verification and payment.
- Use the Global Blue app to track refund status for card payments.
Why the VAT Refund Matters for Tourists
The initiative benefits both visitors and the Saudi economy:
- Better value for money: Tourists enjoy tax-free shopping on eligible items.
- Retail growth: Local stores see higher sales from international spending.
- Global alignment: Places Saudi Arabia alongside destinations like the UAE and Europe that offer tax-free shopping.
The 15 percent VAT refund programme reinforces Saudi Arabia’s commitment to creating a world-class, visitor-friendly environment.
Plan Your Saudi Trip with Akbar Travels
Before you start shopping, ensure your travel arrangements are in place. Akbar Travels provides:
- Flight bookings to Saudi Arabia
- Hotel reservations across Riyadh, Jeddah, Makkah, and Madinah
- Tailor-made holiday packages for every traveler
Our team ensures a smooth, compliant, and enjoyable travel experience—from visa assistance to guidance on the VAT refund process.
Conclusion
Saudi Arabia’s 15 percent VAT refund programme adds tremendous value for tourists visiting the Kingdom. Whether you are travelling for pilgrimage, leisure, or business, you can now save on eligible shopping expenses and make your trip more cost-effective.
Shop at certified stores, keep your receipts safe, and complete the refund process before departure. With Akbar Travels by your side, every journey to Saudi Arabia is well-planned, comfortable, and rewarding.