Dubai has become a global tourism hub due to its world-class infrastructure, luxurious lifestyle, and vibrant culture, attracting millions of visitors annually. Therefore, you have an excellent opportunity to grow and succeed. However, a tourism license is required to start a tourism business in Dubai in compliance with government regulations.
The tourism business license in Dubai allows businesses to organize tours, manage travel packages, and offer hospitality services. This article covers everything you need to know about getting a tourism license in Dubai, the types of licenses available, the benefits, and an estimate of the costs involved.
If you are thinking about setting up a tourism business in Dubai, the business setup experts at Now Consultant help you at every step in compliance with government regulations.
What Is a Tourism License In Dubai?
A tourism license is a legal document issued by Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). It allows businesses to legally operate within the tourism sector, providing services like tour operations, travel arrangements, and hospitality management.
Types of Tourism Licenses In Dubai:
The tourism sector in Dubai is diverse, and so are the types of licenses available. The following are the types of tourism licenses in Dubai:
Inbound Tour Operator License
This license allows you to organize tours within Dubai for international travelers. The following activities are included in this license: sightseeing tours, safari trips, and cultural excursions.
Outbound Tour Operator License
This license allows companies to plan and manage international tours for UAE residents.
Travel Agency License
This license permits businesses to offer services like ticket booking, visa assistance, and travel insurance.
Activities Covered Under Tourism License:
With a tourism license, you can offer a wide range of services, such as:
- Guided city tours
- Adventure expeditions like desert safaris and mountain excursions
- Hotel and accommodation bookings
- Cruise and yacht tours
- Travel insurance services
- Visa applications and processing
Benefits Of Obtaining a Tourism Business License In Dubai:
The following are the benefits of obtaining a tourism license in Dubai:
- Operational Legitimacy: A license ensures that your business complies with Dubai’s regulations, giving travelers and partners confidence in your services.
- Access to a Huge Market: Dubai receives over 16 million tourists annually, providing a steady influx of potential customers.
- Tax Advantages: With 0% corporate tax for small businesses in the Free Zone, Dubai is one of the most entrepreneur-friendly cities in the world.
- Global Recognition: Operating under a regulated setup builds trust and improves brand credibility, giving you an edge over unlicensed competitors.
- Networking Opportunities: Dubai’s interconnected business ecosystem allows you to easily partner with airlines, hotels, and tour companies.
Cost of a Tourism License:
The cost of a tourism license in Dubai starts from 15000 AED but it varies depending on the type of license and the scope of your business activities. You can get an exact idea of the cost of in consultation with our business setup experts. The following are the approximate estimates of average cost:
- Government Fees: Approximately AED 15,000–20,000
- Initial Approval & Registration: AED 1,000–2,000
- Office Rent & Setup Cost: Starts from AED 12,000 (depending on location)
- Visa Cost: AED 5,000–6,000 per visa
In addition to other operational expenses, you should budget around AED 35,000–50,000 to set up a medium-sized tourism business.
Requirements to Obtain a Tourism Trade License:
The following are the requirements to be fulfilled in order to obtain a tourism business license:
- A detailed business plan outlining your services
- A trade name approved by Dubai’s Department of Economic Development (DED)
- Approved office space compliant with DET norms
- Professional liability insurance coverage
- A minimum of AED 100,000 in a security deposit (for certain types of tourism businesses)
Process of Getting a Tourism License In UAE
Here is the step-by-step process of getting a tourism license with the help of our business setup experts:
Step 1: Initial Consultation
The first step is an initial consultation for a detailed discussion about your business idea and specific requirements. In this step, we provide personalized guidance on the licensing process, helping you understand every aspect of starting your tourism business.
Step 2: Choose Your Jurisdiction
The second step is selecting the right jurisdiction for your tourism business based on your goals and market reach. You can choose between a Mainland License or a Free Zone License. Our experts guide you in selecting the most suitable jurisdiction, considering your business needs, budget, and long-term goals.
Step 3: Trade Name Registration
The next step is choosing and registering an appropriate trade name that aligns with your business activity. This ensures your business identity complies with the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) guidelines. Our experts handle the trade name registration process, ensuring compliance and preventing delays.
Step 4: Document Preparation
The fourth step involves preparing and gathering all the required documents for submission to the DET. These documents include:
- Completed application form
- Passport copies of shareholders/owners
- Manager’s qualifications and work experience certificates
- Clean criminal record certificates for owner and manager
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Civil Aviation Authority (in certain cases)
- Business plan (if needed)
Our team ensures your documents are complete, accurate, and submitted without any errors, saving you time and effort.
Step 5: Office Setup
The fifth step is setting up a suitable office space that meets DET regulations and supports your tourism business operations. We assist in finding, leasing, and setting up office space that meets all legal and operational requirements.
Step 6: License Application
The sixth step is submitting your tourism license application to the DET and coordinating with government authorities for timely approval. We handle the application and follow up with the DET to ensure your license is approved quickly and efficiently.
Step 7: Visa Processing
The final step is processing visas for you and your employees, if needed, to operate your tourism business in Dubai legally.
From start to finish, we manage every step of the process on your behalf, making it simple for you to set up your tourism business in Dubai.
How Can We Help You?
If you are interested in setting up a tourism business in Dubai, you can start the business with the expert guidance of business setup experts at Now Consultant. Our experts provide end-to-end support, ensuring your business meets all government regulations and operates without any risk of fines or penalties.
From choosing the right tourism license and managing trade name registration to preparing accurate documentation and setting up compliant office spaces, we provide all kind of tourism license services. At Now Consultant, we also simplify visa processing and ensure timely approvals, allowing you to focus on growing your tourism business.
FAQs:
Can I Apply For A Tourism License Under A Free Zone?
Yes, you can apply for a tourism license under a Dubai Free Zone, such as the Dubai Tourism Authority or Dubai Airport Free Zone, which offers various benefits like tax exemptions and full foreign ownership.
Is A Physical Office Mandatory For A Tourism Business In Dubai?
Yes, a physical office is mandatory for tourism business in Dubai as per the Department of Economy and Tourism regulations to ensure compliance and operational legitimacy. However, in some cases, you can use a Flexi desk permit or a virtual office as a replacement for the physical office.
How Long Does It Take To Get A Tourism License In Dubai?
It takes approximately 1 to 4 weeks to get a tourism license in Dubai, depending on the completion of required documents and approvals from relevant authorities.
