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Related tool:
VAT Refund Calculator
— calculate the refundable tax on your purchases after the service fee.
As tourism grows in Saudi Arabia, the VAT refund for non-resident visitors has become an important benefit when shopping. This guide explains who is eligible, how the refundable tax is calculated, and why the net is less than the VAT amount.
How much VAT is refundable?
VAT in Saudi Arabia is 15% of the item price. This portion is refundable for eligible tourists, after deducting a service fee charged by the refund operator.
How is it calculated from an inclusive price?
If the displayed price includes VAT, then: VAT amount = price × 15 ÷ 115.
An item priced at SAR 1,150 including VAT, with a 15% service fee:
VAT = 1,150 × 15 ÷ 115 = SAR 150
Service fee = 150 × 15% = SAR 22.5
Net refund = SAR 127.5.
Who is eligible?
- Visitors who are non-residents of the Kingdom.
- Purchases from participating stores in the refund program.
- Invoice value above the set minimum threshold.
- Exporting the purchases upon departure within the legal period.
Frequently Asked Questions
VAT in Saudi Arabia is 15% of the item price, and this is the refundable portion for eligible tourists on eligible purchases, minus a service fee charged by the refund operator.
If the price includes VAT, the VAT amount = price × 15 ÷ 115. For example, an item priced at SAR 1,150 includes SAR 150 of refundable tax before the service fee is deducted.
Non-resident visitors who buy from participating stores above a minimum invoice value and export their purchases when leaving the Kingdom within the set period, under ZATCA rules.
Because the refund operator deducts a service fee from the VAT amount, so the net refund is less than the total VAT. Enter the fee rate in the calculator to see the expected net.
The refund is usually processed at the refund operator points at the exit ports (airports, land, and sea ports) upon departure, after verifying the eligible purchases and invoices.