There’s a special feeling that comes with leaving Saudi Arabia after Umrah or a blessed visit, the scent of oud still on your clothes, a few dates tucked into your bag, and a heart that feels somehow lighter. And then, as you stand at the airport, you remember, that beautiful abaya, that prayer rug, those gifts for family, they all came with a 15% VAT tax.

Don’t worry. Even in this, there’s ease.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia offers a VAT refund system for visitors, a small but meaningful gesture of hospitality, a way to ensure that guests of Allah leave with both their faith and finances intact.

Why the VAT Refund Exists

In 2018, Saudi Arabia introduced Value Added Tax (VAT) as part of its national transformation plan, aligning with Vision 2030,  a vision that isn’t just about economy, but also about excellence and service. For non-resident visitors, the government allows you to claim back the 15% VAT you paid on certain goods purchased during your stay.

Who Can Claim the Refund

• If you are a visitor to Saudi Arabia (not a resident or citizen), you’re eligible to reclaim VAT on goods purchased during your trip, as long as:
• You must shop at a store that participates in the “Tax Free Shopping” program and we truly can’t emphasize this enough. The store must be able to issue you an official VAT refund receipt at the time of purchase. Not every shop is registered for this, so always ask before you buy to avoid disappointment later.
• You spent at least SAR 500 in one day per store.
• The items are for personal use and will be taken out of the country within 90 days.
• This applies to visitors from across the world, including those from the GCC countries, when visiting as non-residents.

Step-by-Step: How to Claim Your Refund

1. Shop Intentionally
   Look for the “Tax Free” or “VAT Refund Available” sign when you shop.
   At checkout, present your passport and ask the cashier to issue your VAT refund form or e-ticket.
2. Keep Your Goods and Receipts Safe
   Keep the receipts and refund forms together in a safe place (a small folder in your carry-on works best). As with everything in life, keeping things in order brings ease, whether it’s your prayers, your luggage, or your receipts.
3. Before You Check In — Validate Your Refund
   At the airport (in Riyadh, Jeddah, or Dammam), locate the VAT Refund Counter or Kiosk before you check your bags.📍 In Jeddah, the VAT Refund Counter is located at King Abdulaziz International Airport, Departure Gate E1 — Main Entrance 3.

Bring:

• Your passport
• Boarding pass
• Receipts and refund forms
• Purchased items (you may need to show them)

The staff will scan, verify, and approve your claim.
If your purchases meet all requirements, you’ll receive your refund, either in cash (up to SAR 5,000) or credited to your card.

Pro tips (Dar El Salam Travel)

• Do a “Tax Free” audit of your shopping list: luxury malls and major brands are most consistently enrolled.
• Batch purchases with the same retailer to clear SAR 500 in one day and keep forms tidy.
• Hit the refund counter early, especially during peak Umrah/Hajj dates. Keep goods in your carry-on until you’ve validated.
• If you need cash, confirm your terminal offers cash and remember the SAR 5,000/day cap. Otherwise, choose card for the full amount.

Final word

Saudi Arabia’s Tax Free program is generous if you plan ahead: shop only at approved stores, keep every receipt, validate before departure, and know the limits. It’s a simple system that rewards a little organization and a lot of intention.

Happy shopping and happier traveling.