Dubai is one of the most popular places in the world for tourism and hospitality. Every year, Thousands of people visit the United Arab Emirates, which creates great opportunities for those who want to start a travel or tourism business. If you want to work legally in this field, you need a Tourism License in Dubai from the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).
In this guide, we’ll explain the requirements, cost, and process of getting a tourism license in Dubai in simple words.
What is a Tourism License in Dubai?
A tourism license is a legal permit and paper that allows you to run services related to travel and tours in United Arab Emirates. With proper paper works and license, you can operate as a travel agency, tour operator, or event organizer. You are not allowed to give comprehensive services such as booking of flights, accommodation facilities, guided tourism or visa support without acquiring tourism license.
For many investors, this is also the first step before moving towards larger Business setup in Dubai opportunities.
Types of Tourism License in Dubai
Depending on your business plan, there are three main categories:
- Inbound Tour Operator – Inbound tour operator organize tours and activities inside the UAE, like desert safaris, cultural trips, and adventure tours.
- Outbound Tour Operator – Plan and sell holiday packages for people in the UAE who want to travel abroad.
- Travel Agency – Offer online flight bookings, hotel reservations, visa support, and full travel packages through portal
Some investors also look at Company formation in Abu-Dhabi Mainland when they want to expand their services outside Dubai.
Requirements for a Tourism License in Dubai
To get the license, you need to submit documents and approvals to DET. The common Tourism license in Dubai requirements are:
- Passport copies of all shareholders
- Passport-size photographs
- Initial approval from DET
- Office tenancy contract (Ejari)
- Business plan with activity details
- Clean criminal record certificate
If you want to reach a wider market in Dubai, you can also consider Company Formation in Dubai Mainland, which gives more flexibility for operations.
Tourism License in Dubai Price and Fees
The Tourism license in Dubai price usually starts at AED 14,999, but the final amount depends on your chosen activities and company setup.
Apart from the license price, there are some extra charges that make up the full Tourism license in Dubai fees, such as:
- Trade name reservation
- Initial approvals
- DTCM approvals
- Office rental cost (if mainland)
Since the process involves several steps, many business owners take help from experts who offer PRO Services in Dubai to make the application smooth and quick.
Steps to Get a Tourism License in Dubai
- Select the type of tourism activity you want to run.
- Decide whether you want a mainland or free zone company.
- Reserve your business trade name.
- Collect and prepare all required documents.
- Apply for approvals from DET.
- Arrange for an office space if needed.
- Pay the fees and receive your license.
With the help of E-Commerce license in Dubai, you can easily manage your digital travel services like online booking system.
Benefits of a Tourism License in Dubai
- Access to Dubai’s fast-growing tourism market.
- Legal permission to run a professional travel business.
- Stronger reputation with customers and partners.
- Option to expand into inbound and outbound tours.
- You can also apply the Trading license in Dubai which support retail activities during tourism services.
Final Thoughts
Dubai is a global hub for travel and tourism, which makes it an excellent place to start a tourism company. By understanding the requirements, price, and fees for a tourism license in Dubai, you can plan your business with ease.
With the right setup and proper guidance, you can establish a successful travel agency or tour operator in the UAE and take full advantage of the booming tourism industry