How to Shop Tax-Free in Dubai as a Tanzanian Visitor
How to Shop Tax-Free in Dubai as a Tanzanian Visitor. Dubai is not only famous for its skyscrapers and beaches, but it’s also a top destination for tax-free shopping. If you’re visiting from Tanzania and love great deals on electronics, fashion, perfumes, or gold, you’ll be glad to know that you can shop VAT-free in Dubai and claim a refund before flying home.
At Mandari Travel, we help Tanzanian travelers enjoy smooth and stress-free shopping holidays in the UAE. In this blog, we explain how to shop tax-free in Dubai, what you need to know, and how to claim your VAT refund before departure.
What Is VAT in Dubai?
How to Shop Tax-Free in Dubai as a Tanzanian Visitor. Dubai introduced a Value Added Tax (VAT) of 5% in 2018 on most goods and services. While this tax is added to your purchases, tourists from outside the UAE, including Tanzanian visitors are eligible for VAT refunds on eligible purchases.
Who Can Claim a VAT Refund in Dubai?
As a Tanzanian tourist, you can claim VAT refunds if:
- You are not a resident of the UAE or any other GCC country.
- You made purchases from a participating store in the Tax-Free Shopping Scheme.
- You depart from a UAE airport (like Dubai International Airport) within 90 days of your purchase.
- You are carrying the goods with you, not shipping them out.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Shop Tax-Free in Dubai
1. Shop at Stores Displaying “Tax-Free” Sign
Look for shops that are part of the Planet Tax Refund system the official tax refund partner in the UAE. These stores will display a Tax-Free Shopping logo at the entrance or near the cashier.
Ask the cashier to issue a digital tax invoice with your passport details. Keep the invoice and receipts safely.
2. Get Your Digital Refund Form
The store will process your purchase into the Planet system and issue you a QR-coded refund tag. This will be used later at the airport.
Note: No paper forms are needed everything is done electronically.
3. Claim Your Refund at the Airport
Before checking in for your flight back to Tanzania:
- Visit the Planet Tax Refund counter or kiosk (available in Terminals 1, 2, and 3 of Dubai International Airport).
- Present your passport, original receipts, purchase items, and boarding pass.
- Once verified, you can receive your VAT refund via:
- Cash (AED)
- Credit card refund
Note: A small processing fee is deducted from your total refund.
What Items Are Eligible for VAT Refund?
- Electronics (phones, tablets, laptops)
- Clothing and shoes
- Perfume and cosmetics
- Jewelry and gold
- Souvenirs and luxury items
Services, hotel bills, and food purchases are not eligible.
Shopping Tips for Tanzanian Visitors
- Keep all receipts and VAT tags organized for easy processing.
- Do your VAT refund before checking in luggage, as you may need to show the items.
- Ask Mandari Travel to plan your shopping tour with stops at tax-free friendly malls like Dubai Mall, Deira City Centre, or Mall of the Emirates.
Why Travel with Mandari Travel?
We specialize in Dubai holiday packages for Tanzanian tourists, including shopping tours, guided mall visits, and hotel stays near Dubai’s top shopping areas. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or in a group, we ensure you enjoy maximum savings and stress-free travel.
Contact us for:
- Flights and hotel bookings
- Shopping assistance
- VAT refund guidance
- Dubai city tours and more
Email: info@mandaritravel.com
Call/WhatsApp: +255 750 900 811
Fill out the form below to request a quote for your Dubai shopping holiday!
