23 October 2026 · Tax · Rasif Accountants FZ-LLC
Quick answer: UAE retailers serving overseas visitors should review their tourist-refund registration, checkout procedures and accounting records following the FTA’s latest digital platform launch. A faster refund journey still depends on eligible purchases and correct transaction information.
What did the FTA announce in October 2026?
On 20 October 2026, the Federal Tax Authority announced an AI-powered tourist VAT refund platform developed with Planet. The launch announcement identifies Zayed International Airport, Dubai International Airport and Sharjah International Airport as operational locations.
The process uses Planet’s app, digital verification and airport QR codes. Some transactions can proceed without in-person checks; others still require inspection. The FTA reported a reduction in refund time to one business day. This is an announced service improvement, not a promise that every customer’s payment will arrive within that time. Read the FTA announcement.
What should Ras Al Khaimah retailers check?
A shop’s location and a traveller’s departure airport are separate considerations. Retailers in Ras Al Khaimah should check their own scheme participation and direct customers to the operator’s current instructions for their departure point.
The FTA’s retailer registration service is for VAT-registered businesses supplying goods in the UAE. Joining the tourist refund scheme involves a separate registration process with Planet. Retailers submit documents and collateral, sign the required agreements and complete training after approval.
The stated documentation includes the tax registration certificate, trade licence, authorised-signatory evidence, Emirates ID and signed service and credit-check documents. Planet determines the collateral, provided through a security cheque or bank guarantee. Confirm the current requirements before submitting an application.
A practical checklist for your shop
- Confirm readiness: Check the registered outlets, responsible staff and access to the operator’s current guidance.
- Review checkout quality: Test whether staff can issue the correct transaction and explain the next step clearly without promising automatic approval.
- Reconcile the records: Compare sales invoices, tax-free transactions, cancellations, credit notes and operator statements. Investigate differences before preparing your VAT return.
- Keep an exception log: Record failed transactions, customer queries and corrective action so unresolved items are visible to your accounts team.
- Refresh customer information: Check that signs, website wording and staff scripts reflect the current process and do not guarantee timing or eligibility.
This checklist is Rasif’s practical preparation guidance. It helps organise the work between the sales counter and accounts team; it does not replace the operator’s registration, validation or inspection decisions.
What should customers bring and verify?
The FTA’s tourist refund service information calls for original travel identification and the purchased goods where inspection is required. Customers should follow the current app and departure-point instructions and allow time to resolve errors before leaving.
The service card dated 25 August 2026 still describes an older bank-card processing timeframe. For the October platform development, refer to the newer 20 October announcement and confirm the customer’s actual status with Planet.
Frequently asked questions
Does VAT registration automatically enrol my shop?
No. The tourist refund scheme has its own retailer registration and approval process. Check your outlet’s approved status before advertising participation.
Does every tourist transaction avoid inspection?
No. The new platform can process some transactions automatically, while directing others through verification. Customers must follow the instructions for their own claim.
Can Rasif process or guarantee the tourist’s refund?
The refund is handled through the official scheme and its operator. Rasif can help your business review records, prepare supporting information and organise VAT compliance work; approval and payment remain with the scheme.
How Rasif Accountants can help
Rasif Accountants FZ-LLC supports businesses in Ras Al Khaimah and across the UAE with VAT registration and return preparation, transaction reviews, bookkeeping and reconciliations. Bring your registration details, sample invoices and operator statements so we can identify the work your business needs.
Book a free initial consultation or contact +971 55 770 9776 / +971 7 204 1565. Email: info@rasifaccountants.com.
Office 10, Floor 10, Tower 2, RAKEZ Explorer Business Hub, Al Hamra Industrial, Ras Al Khaimah, UAE.
Official sources
- FTA tourist VAT refund platform announcement — 20 October 2026.
- FTA retailer registration service — updated 6 April 2026.
- FTA tourist refund service — updated 25 August 2026.
Sources checked on 23 October 2026. This article provides general business information; individual transactions and applications require review of their facts.
