Dubai has emerged as one of the world’s most dynamic tourism destinations, welcoming millions of visitors each year for leisure, business, luxury travel, and cultural experiences. With its iconic skyline, world-class infrastructure, diverse attractions, and strong government support, Dubai offers vast opportunities for entrepreneurs looking to enter the tourism sector. To legally operate in this thriving industry, obtaining a tourism license in Dubai is mandatory.
A tourism license allows businesses to provide travel-related services such as tour operations, travel agency services, hotel bookings, destination management, and event-based tourism activities. Issued by the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) in coordination with the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM), this license ensures that businesses meet regulatory, safety, and service-quality standards.
The tourism industry in Dubai is tightly regulated to maintain international credibility and protect tourists. Whether you plan to open a travel agency, operate guided tours, or manage tourism experiences, securing the right license is a critical first step. Understanding the licensing requirements, costs, and the new Dubai Unified License (DUL) framework can help entrepreneurs establish their tourism business smoothly.
Documents Needed to Obtain a Tourism License in Dubai
Obtaining a tourism business license in Dubai requires submitting a set of mandatory documents to the relevant authorities. These documents help verify the identity of business owners, define business activities, and ensure compliance with tourism regulations.
Key documents typically required include:
- Passport copies of all shareholders and partners
- UAE residence visa copies and Emirates ID (if applicable)
- Passport-size photographs of business owners
- Trade name reservation and an initial approval certificate from DET
- Memorandum of Association (MOA)
- Tenancy contract (Ejari): For tourism licenses, a physical office is mandatory. Virtual offices or flexi-desks are generally not permitted for mainland tourism activities.
- Qualified Manager Credentials: You must appoint a manager with a relevant degree (attested) or 3–5 years of verifiable experience in the tourism sector.
- Bank guarantee or insurance policy: As mandated by DTCM (amounts vary by activity).
- Civil Aviation Approval (for Travel Agencies): A No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority is required if you intend to issue airline tickets.
Additional approvals may be required depending on the nature of tourism activities. For example, inbound tour operators must meet specific insurance and guarantee requirements, while outbound travel agencies may need airline or international booking affiliations.
Ensuring accurate documentation significantly reduces processing time and prevents delays during license issuance.
Who Should Apply for a Tourism License?
A tourism license is required by any individual or company intending to offer travel- or tourism-related services in Dubai. This applies to both startups and established businesses expanding into the UAE tourism market.
Entities that should apply include:
- Entrepreneurs starting a travel agency
- Tour operators offering guided tours or excursions
- Destination management companies (DMCs)
- Online travel booking platforms
- Corporate travel management firms
- Cruise and excursion service providers
- Event-based tourism organizers
- Adventure tourism operators
- Holiday Home Operators: A growing sector requiring specific DET permits for short-term rentals.
Both UAE nationals and foreign investors are eligible to apply. Dubai allows 100% foreign ownership for many tourism activities, making it an attractive destination for international entrepreneurs.
Anyone providing tourism services without proper licensing risks heavy fines, business closure, and legal action. Therefore, applying for the correct tourism trade license in Dubai is essential before commencing operations.
Advantages of Having a Tourism License in Dubai
Holding a tourism license in Dubai offers multiple benefits that go beyond legal compliance. Dubai’s strategic position and pro-business environment provide tourism entrepreneurs with a competitive advantage in the global travel industry.
Key advantages include:
Access to a global tourism market
Dubai serves as a hub connecting Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, offering access to international travelers year-round.
High tourist demand
With consistent growth in visitor numbers, tourism businesses enjoy strong demand across leisure, luxury, business, and adventure segments.
Government support
Dubai’s government actively promotes tourism through global campaigns, events, and infrastructure investments. Access to global campaigns and infrastructure investments under the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33).
Business-friendly regulations
Streamlined licensing processes and transparent regulations make business setup relatively straightforward.
Visa eligibility
A licensed tourism business allows owners and employees to apply for UAE residence visas.
Credibility and trust
A licensed entity gains immediate trust with international airlines, hotels, and global suppliers.
Scalability
Tourism businesses can expand services, add activities, and operate regionally once established.
These advantages make investing in tourism one of the most attractive business opportunities in Dubai.
Types of Tourism Licenses in Dubai
Dubai offers several types of tourism licenses depending on the scope and nature of services provided. Choosing the right category is crucial to ensure regulatory compliance and operational flexibility.
Inbound Tourism License
This license allows businesses to organize tours and travel services within the UAE. It includes hotel bookings, local transportation, sightseeing tours, and desert safaris.
Outbound Tourism License
An outbound license permits companies to sell international travel packages, airline tickets, visas, and overseas tour services to UAE residents.
Travel Agency License
This license covers ticketing, hotel reservations, and visa assistance(requires Civil Aviation NOC). It can include inbound, outbound, or combined activities.
Destination Management Company (DMC) License
DMCs handle large-scale tourism services such as corporate events, conferences, incentive travel, and luxury tour planning.
Holiday Home License
For those managing furnished units for vacationers on a daily or monthly basis.
Adventure and Eco-Tourism License
This category is designed for operators offering adventure activities such as desert safaris, trekking, water sports, and eco-tourism experiences.
Each license type has specific compliance requirements, including manager qualifications, insurance coverage, and financial guarantees.
Process for Apply a Tourism License in Dubai, UAE
The process to apply for a tourism license in Dubai follows a structured approach governed by DET and DTCM. While requirements may vary slightly depending on the license type, the general process includes the following steps:
Step 1: Define Business Activities
Clearly identify the tourism activities you plan to offer, such as inbound tours, outbound travel, or ticketing services.
Step 2: Choose Jurisdiction
Decide whether to set up on the Dubai mainland or in a free zone. Mainland licenses offer wider operational flexibility.
Step 3: Trade Name Reservation
Select and reserve a unique business name that complies with UAE naming regulations.
Step 4: Initial Approval
Apply for initial approval from DET, confirming that the government has no objection to your business activity.
Step 5: Secure Office Space
Lease a physical office space and register the tenancy contract through Ejari.
Step 6: Submit Documents to DTCM
Provide all required documents, including insurance policies, bank guarantees, and manager credentials.
Step 7: Pay License Fees
The travel and tourism license cost in Dubai varies based on license type, activities, and approvals.
Step 8: License Issuance
Once approved, the tourism license is issued, allowing you to legally commence operations.
The entire process can take anywhere from one to four weeks, depending on approvals and documentation accuracy.
Tourism Manager Checklist:
One of the most important steps in 2025 is appointing a “Manager in Charge.” The authorities will not issue your final license unless your manager meets these specific criteria. Here they are :
- Option A: The Degree Path
- Requirement: A University Degree (Tourism is best, but others are accepted).
- Experience: At least 3 years of work experience in the tourism industry.
- Option B: The High School Path
- Requirement: A High School/Secondary School Certificate.
- Experience: At least 5 years of work experience in the tourism industry.
- The “Paperwork” Rule (Attestation):
- Degrees must be “attested.” This means they need official stamps from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the UAE Embassy in the country where the degree was issued.
- The “Dubai Way” Training:
- Your manager will likely need to pass a short training course from the Dubai College of Tourism. This ensures they know Dubai’s specific rules and “wow” service standards.
- Proof of Work:
- You’ll need a formal Experience Letter from a previous company to prove the 3 or 5 years of work history.
Travel and Tourism License Cost in Dubai
The travel and tourism license cost in Dubai depends on several factors, including business activity, jurisdiction, office size, and regulatory requirements. Generally, costs include government fees, approvals, office rent, insurance, and bank guarantees.
Typical cost components include:
- Trade name reservation and initial approval fees
- License issuance fees
- DTCM approval charges
- Office rental and Ejari registration
- Insurance and bank guarantee requirements
- Visa and immigration costs
The Dubai tourism license cost can range from moderate to higher investment levels, especially for inbound and outbound tour operators that require financial guarantees. Proper planning and budgeting are essential to avoid unexpected expenses during setup.
Compliance and Renewal Requirements
A tourism business license in Dubai must be renewed annually. Businesses must maintain compliance with regulatory requirements to ensure smooth renewals.
Key renewal obligations include:
- Valid office tenancy contract
- Active insurance and bank guarantees
- Compliance with tourism regulations
- Payment of renewal fees on time
Failure to renew on time can result in penalties, suspension of operations, or license cancellation.
Conclusion – Why Choose TAP Fiscal
Setting up a tourism business in Dubai requires careful planning, regulatory knowledge, and accurate documentation. From selecting the right license type to understanding the tourism business license in Dubai requirements and managing approvals, professional guidance can make the process efficient and stress-free.
TAP Fiscal specializes in assisting entrepreneurs and companies with end-to-end business setup solutions in Dubai. With in-depth expertise in tourism licensing, regulatory compliance, and cost optimization, TAP Fiscal ensures that your tourism venture starts on a strong legal and operational foundation. Whether you are launching a travel agency or expanding into tourism services, TAP Fiscal provides reliable support tailored to your business goals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is a tourism license in Dubai?
A tourism license in Dubai is an official permit that allows businesses to provide travel and tourism-related services such as tour operations, travel agency services, hotel bookings, and destination management. It is mandatory to operate legally within Dubai’s regulated tourism industry.
Who needs a tourism license in Dubai?
Any individual or company planning to offer tourism or travel-related services in Dubai needs a tourism license. This includes travel agencies, tour operators, destination management companies, adventure tourism providers, and online travel platforms serving local or international tourists.
What are the types of tourism licenses available in Dubai?
Dubai offers inbound tourism licenses, outbound tourism licenses, travel agency licenses, destination management company licenses, and adventure or eco-tourism licenses. Each type is designed for specific tourism activities and has distinct regulatory and compliance requirements.
Which authority issues the tourism license in Dubai?
Tourism licenses in Dubai are issued by the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) in coordination with the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM). These authorities regulate tourism activities and ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations.
What documents are required for a tourism license in Dubai?
Required documents typically include passport copies of shareholders, UAE visa and Emirates ID copies (if applicable), trade name reservation, initial approval, Memorandum of Association, office tenancy contract, manager qualifications, and insurance or bank guarantees as required.
How much does a tourism license cost in Dubai?
The cost of a tourism license in Dubai varies based on license type, business activities, and jurisdiction. Generally, it includes government fees, DTCM approvals, office rent, insurance, and guarantees, making costs range from moderate to higher investment levels.
Do I need a physical office for a tourism license in Dubai?
Yes, most tourism licenses in Dubai require a physical office space registered with an Ejari tenancy contract. A physical office is mandatory to meet regulatory requirements and demonstrate operational presence, especially for mainland tourism businesses.
Can a foreign investor own 100% of a tourism business in Dubai?
Yes, foreign investors can own 100% of a tourism business in Dubai for most activities. Recent regulatory reforms allow full foreign ownership on the mainland and in free zones without requiring a local Emirati partner.
How long does it take to get a tourism license in Dubai?
Obtaining a tourism license in Dubai typically takes between one and four weeks. The timeline depends on the license type, completion of documentation, DTCM approvals, and fulfillment of insurance or bank guarantee requirements.
What is the validity period of a tourism license in Dubai?
A tourism license in Dubai is usually valid for one year from the date of issuance. It must be renewed annually by fulfilling compliance requirements, maintaining approvals, and paying renewal fees on time.
Can I operate both inbound and outbound tours under one license?
Yes, you can operate both inbound and outbound tours under one license if the activities are approved and included during licensing. However, additional approvals, insurance coverage, and financial guarantees may be required to cover both tourism activities.
Can a foreign investor own 100% of a tourism business?
Yes, recent reforms allow 100% foreign ownership for many mainland tourism activities without a local partner.
Is a virtual office allowed for a tourism license?
No. To ensure service quality and accountability, DET requires a physical, inspected office for most tourism and travel agency licenses.
What are the manager’s requirements?
The manager must have a university degree and 3 years of experience, or a secondary certificate and 5 years of experience in the tourism field.
How long does the process take?
Typically, 3 to 6 weeks, depending on how quickly the physical office is ready for inspection and how fast the bank guarantee is processed.
What is the Dubai Unified License (DUL)?
It is a unique digital ID for businesses that centralizes your data, making it much easier to open bank accounts and interact with government bodies.
