Introduction
Saudi Arabia has officially started a VAT refund program for non-resident tourists and GCC nationals, allowing eligible visitors to reclaim 15% VAT on qualifying purchases via 1,442 approved retail outlets across the Kingdom.
How the VAT Refund Works
Eligibility Requirements
- Must be 18 years or older and non-resident (including GCC nationals).
- Total purchases must exceed SR 500 and be unused goods for personal export within 90 days.
- Excluded items: accommodation, meals, vehicles, boats, aircraft, food & beverages, tobacco, and petroleum products.
How to Claim
Shoppers must request a VAT refund form at the point of sale by presenting a passport or GCC ID. They may combine up to three invoices from the same retailer on the same day to meet the SR 500 threshold.
Validation & Refund Process
Before exiting, travelers must validate their tax‑free form at one of 18 verification points located at:
- King Khalid International Airport, Riyadh – 10 counters
- King Abdulaziz International Airport, Jeddah – 4 counters
- King Fahd International Airport, Dammam – 4 counters
Refunds can be issued by card or in cash (up to SR 5,000 daily), except cash refund is not available at Jeddah’s North Terminal.
Why the Initiative Matters
This VAT refund scheme aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy to enhance tourism and retail appeal. It aims to make shopping in Saudi Arabia more attractive—encouraging longer stays and greater expenditure in the Kingdom’s retail sector.
Related Initiatives
This scheme is part of a broader push under Vision 2030 to boost tourism revenue, following efforts such as streamlined hotel licensing fees to attract more visitors and position Saudi Arabia as a global tourism destination.
Summary at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Effective Date | April 18, 2025 |
| VAT Rebate Rate | 15% |
| Eligible Minimum Spend | SR 500 (unused personal goods) |
| Verification Points | 18 counters at Riyadh, Jeddah & Dammam airports |
| Refund Options | By card or cash (cash cap SR 5,000/day) |
This VAT refund initiative seeks to elevate the visitor experience while reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s emerging role as a top-tier global tourism destination.
