Dubai has built a name for itself as one of the world’s favourite travel destinations. Every year, millions of tourists visit the city to enjoy its iconic landmarks, luxury hotels, desert safaris, shopping festivals, and global events. Tourism is not just a part of Dubai’s economy; it’s one of its strongest pillars. With the city welcoming over 18 million international visitors in recent years, the demand for travel and tourism services continues to grow steadily.
To legally run any travel-related business in the city, you need a tourism license in Dubai. This license allows entrepreneurs and companies to offer services such as travel agency operations, tour packages, inbound and outbound tourism, holiday planning, and more. It ensures that tourism businesses follow Dubai’s regulations while maintaining service quality and customer trust.
This growing industry is ideal for travel agents, tour operators, startups, and even individuals who want to turn their passion for travel into a business. If you’re planning to serve tourists, organise experiences, or sell travel services in Dubai, understanding how a Dubai tourism license works is the first and most important step toward starting your journey in this thriving market.
What Is a Tourism License in Dubai?
A tourism license in Dubai is a legal permit that allows businesses to offer travel- and tourism-related services in the city. If your business deals with tourists, travel planning, tours, or holiday services, this is the license you need. It is issued by Dubai’s relevant authorities to make sure tourism businesses operate legally, safely, and professionally.
What Activities Are Allowed Under a Dubai Tourism License?
With a tourism license, you can legally carry out several travel-related activities, including:
- Issue Visas: Process tourist visas for international clients.
- Organise Tours: Conduct desert safaris, dhow cruises, and city sightseeing trips.
- Book Accommodations: Act as a middleman for hotels, resorts, and short-term rentals.
- Transport Logistics: Provide airport transfers and car rentals specifically for tourists.
- Ticketing: Sell international and domestic airline tickets.
Tourism License vs General Trade License: What’s the Difference?
Many first-time entrepreneurs get confused between these two, but they serve very different purposes.
- A tourism license is specifically for businesses involved in travel and tourism services. It comes with industry-specific regulations and approvals to ensure quality and tourist safety.
- A general trade license, on the other hand, allows businesses to trade a wide range of goods (import, export, and sale of products) but does not permit tourism or travel-related services.
Types of Tourism Licenses in Dubai
The Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) classifies licenses based on where your clients are coming from and where they are going. While recent regulations have made it easier to combine these activities, they are still categorised by four primary types:
1. Inbound Tourism License
An inbound tourism license is issued to businesses that focus on tourists visiting Dubai and the UAE. Companies with this license can organise local tours and experiences such as city sightseeing, desert safaris, dhow cruises, and leisure activities. This license is ideal for businesses working with hotels, transport providers, and attractions to create travel experiences for international visitors.
2. Outbound Tourism License
An outbound tourism license is suitable for businesses that help UAE residents travel outside the country. It allows companies to sell international holiday packages, plan overseas tours, and manage flight and hotel bookings for global destinations. Travel agencies that specialise in international travel generally require this license.
3. Travel Agent License
A travel agent license allows businesses to provide complete travel booking services. This includes airline ticketing, hotel reservations, visa assistance, and overall travel planning. Many travel agencies in Dubai operate under this license and may also apply for inbound or outbound permissions based on the services they offer.
4. Tour Guide License
This is a professional license specifically for individuals rather than companies. In Dubai, you cannot simply start explaining history to tourists; you must be licensed to ensure the information provided is accurate and high-quality. Applicants must complete a mandatory training program and pass an exam by the DET.
Authorities Involved in Issuing a Tourism License in Dubai
Setting up a tourism business in Dubai involves approvals from more than one authority. Each plays a specific role to ensure tourism companies operate legally, safely, and in line with Dubai’s tourism standards.
1. Department of Economy and Tourism (DET)
The DET is the primary regulatory body for all tourism-related activities in Dubai. They are responsible for:
- Granting the License: They review your business plan and issue the final tourism permit.
- Setting Standards: They define the operational requirements for travel agencies, tour operators, and hotels.
- Inspections: DET officers conduct site visits to ensure your office space meets legal specifications.
2. Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM)
DTCM operates under DET and plays a crucial role in regulating tourism activities. Approval from DTCM is mandatory for tourism-related businesses such as travel agencies and tour operators. It sets guidelines related to service quality, tourist safety, and operational standards, especially for inbound and outbound tourism services.
3. Free Zone Authorities (If Applicable)
If you choose to set up your tourism business in a free zone, the respective free zone authority will handle the licensing process. However, depending on the activities, you may still need additional approvals from DET or DTCM. Free zones manage company registration, office facilities, and visa-related matters within their jurisdiction.
4. Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA)
If your business involves Travel Agency activities (specifically selling air tickets), you must obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the DCAA. They ensure that any entity selling flight services adheres to international and local aviation safety and consumer protection laws.
5. Roads and Transport Authority (RTA)
The RTA becomes a critical partner if your tourism business involves physical transportation, such as desert safaris, bus tours, or luxury car rentals. They manage:
- Vehicle Permits: Specialised registration for Tourist Vehicles.
- Driver Licensing: Professional permits for tour drivers to ensure they are trained to handle visitors safely.
What are the Documents Required for a Tourism License in Dubai?
To apply for a tourism license in Dubai, you need to submit a set of basic documents to the relevant authorities:
- Passport copies of all shareholders and partners
- UAE visa copy (if applicable)
- Emirates ID copy (if applicable)
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from sponsor, if required
- Trade name reservation certificate
- Initial approval certificate from the relevant authority
- Business plan (if requested)
- Tenancy contract/office lease agreement
- Ejari registration
- DTCM approval (mandatory for tourism activities)
- Security clearance or bank guarantee (if applicable)
- Passport-size photographs of shareholders
(Note: The final document list may vary depending on mainland or free zone setup and the type of tourism activity.)
How to Get a Tourism License in Dubai?
Getting a tourism license in Dubai involves multiple approvals, but the process is straightforward when done step by step.
Step 1: Select Your License Category & Activity
Before anything else, define exactly what your business will do. You must choose between the main types (Inbound, Outbound, or Travel Agent) as this determines your external approvals and bank guarantee requirements.
Step 2: Choose Your Jurisdiction (Mainland vs. Free Zone)
- Mainland (Recommended): Best for retail travel agencies and tour operators who want to work directly with local hotels and government entities. It requires a physical office of at least 30 sqm.
- Free Zone: Best for B2B or online-only portals. While setup is faster, you may face restrictions on selling directly to the local Dubai market without a local partner.
Step 3: Register Your Trade Name
Submit your desired business name to the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). The name must not be blasphemous, offensive, or already in use. If using a person’s name, it must be the full name of a shareholder.
Step 4: Apply for Initial Approval
After trade name approval, apply for initial approval from the licensing authority. This step confirms that the authorities have no objection to your proposed business activity and allows you to proceed with further approvals.
Step 5: Obtain DTCM Approval
Approval from the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) is mandatory for tourism businesses. This stage focuses on compliance with tourism regulations, service quality standards, and, in some cases, security or financial requirements.
Step 6: Finalise Office Space and Ejari
Most tourism licenses require a physical office space. You will need to secure an office location and register the tenancy contract through Ejari. Some setups may allow flexi-desk or shared office arrangements, depending on the license type and authority.
Step 7: Submit Final Documents and Pay Fees
Once all approvals and office documents are ready, submit the complete application along with the required government fees. Authorities review the documents before moving to the final approval stage.
Step 8: Tourism License Issuance
After successful review and payment confirmation, the tourism license in Dubai is issued. This officially allows you to start operating your tourism business in Dubai.
Step 9: Post-License Setup and Registrations
After receiving the license, you can proceed with visa applications for staff, open a corporate bank account, and complete any additional registrations required to run your tourism business smoothly.
Important: Getting a tourism license in Dubai involves several steps, but with AE Setup supporting you at every stage, the process stays smooth and stress-free.
Tourism License Cost in Dubai
The cost of getting a tourism license in Dubai generally starts from AED 18,000 and can go up to AED 40,000 or more, depending on the type of tourism activity, business location, and approvals required. This cost usually covers the basic government licensing fees and initial approvals, but the final amount can vary based on whether you choose a mainland or free zone setup.
In addition to the license fee, there are additional costs that entrepreneurs should plan for. These may include trade name reservation fees, DTCM approval charges, office rent and Ejari registration, security deposits or bank guarantees (if required), and visa application costs.
How AE Setup Can Help
Dubai’s tourism sector offers exciting opportunities, but success starts with choosing the right tourism license in Dubai and following the correct process. Taking time to plan your activities, budget, and setup structure can save you from unnecessary delays and extra costs later on. With the right approach, starting a tourism business in Dubai can be simpler than it seems.
All Emirates Setup (AE Setup) provides expert assistance with tourism licensing in Dubai, helping entrepreneurs navigate approvals, documentation, and setup requirements efficiently. With the right support, you can start your tourism business with clarity and confidence.
Commonly Asked Questions – Travel and Tourism License
1. What is a tourism license in Dubai?
A tourism license is a legal permit that allows businesses to offer travel- and tourism-related services such as tours, travel agency services, and holiday planning in Dubai.
2. Do I need a physical office for a Tourism License?
Yes, for a Mainland license, a physical office is mandatory. The DET requires a registered tenancy contract (Ejari) and usually performs a site inspection. However, if you choose a Free Zone setup, you may be able to use a Flexi-desk or Smart Office solution, which is more cost-effective for startups.
3. What are the main benefits of starting a tourism business in Dubai?
Dubai offers a world-class infrastructure, a strategic location connecting East and West, and 100% foreign ownership on the mainland for most tourism activities. Additionally, you benefit from a low-tax environment (0% personal income tax and competitive corporate tax rates).
4. Can I sell airline tickets with any tourism license?
No. To sell airline tickets, you specifically need a Travel Agent License and a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA). You may also eventually need IATA accreditation to issue tickets directly.
5. How long is a tourism license valid?
A tourism license is valid for one year and must be renewed annually. For individual Tour Guides, the license is typically valid for two years, provided you complete the mandatory refresher training.
