How can I get a Dubai tourism license?

Dubai is widely celebrated for its astounding glamour, luxury, and vibrant culture. This makes it a hotspot for tourists from all over the world. As a result, the tourism industry is also thriving with lucrative opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs and investors who are willing to start their business journey in Dubai. However, one of the major prerequisites to tap into this bustling market is a tourism license in Dubai that allows you to operate any tourism-related business.

In this comprehensive guide, we will learn the major requirements for starting a tourism business in Dubai, the licensing process, documentation, the costs involved, and more.

Tourism license in Dubai: Types

Dubai has different types of tourism licenses that cater to different aspects of the industry:

Inbound tour operator license

Businesses organizing local events or providing transportation services within Dubai need to acquire an Inbound tour operator license or Inbound tourism license. With this license, they can arrange tours and excursions within the emirate, manage travel accommodations and logistics for tourists, and also organize local cultural, recreational, or educational tours.

Outbound tour operator license

On the other hand, businesses selling travel packages to destinations outside the UAE are required to obtain an Outbound tour operator license, also known as an Outbound Tourism License. This license allows them to prepare and sell travel packages for tourists visiting outside the UAE, manage flights, accommodations, and itineraries for destinations globally, and also collaborate with international travel partners to facilitate these services.

Travel agency license

All the entities operating as travel agencies in Dubai are required to obtain this license. With this permit, they can sell airline tickets, arrange hotel reservations, visas, and travel insurance, provide vehicles for rent, and other travel-related services.

Activities covered in a Tourism license

The following establishments are required to acquire a tourism license in Dubai, UAE:-

• Travel Firms: Arranging travel packages, tours, and expeditions.
• Hotels: Accommodation facilities and lodging services for tourists.
• Restaurants: Dining establishments serving tourists and locals alike.
• Car Rental Firms: Providing vehicles for hire to tourists.
• Travel Agents: Booking travel services, such as flights and hotels for clients.

Benefits of getting a tourism license in Dubai

A Tourism license can significantly enhance the success and status of a business within the industry. In addition, there are several other benefits of obtaining this license –

Government Support and Favorable Regulations

Dubai’s government strongly supports the tourism sector. The regulations implemented by them encourage business growth and development. For example,

• Businesses operating in both free zones and the mainland can repatriate their profits and capital, thus gaining substantial financial benefits.
• Businesses have no restrictions on foreign exchange which simplifies international business transactions and capital movement.
• Dubai has a stable political climate and a fixed exchange rate that attracts foreign investment and reduces financial risks.

Ease of Business Setup

The process of licensing in Dubai is streamlined by the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). They have implemented clear and straightforward procedures that reduce administrative burdens and increase efficiency. Furthermore, the supportive infrastructure and plentiful resources assist new companies in navigating setup procedures and operating fruitfully.

Free Zones

The Free Zones in Dubai offer numerous advantages for tourism businesses. Since each zone is designed to cater to specific business activities, their infrastructure and regulations benefit the specific industry. For example, media, finance, technology, etc. Moreover, Free Zones also allow investors to fully own their business without the need for a local partner.

Credibility and Trust

A license is a certification of credibility and trust. It indicates that the company adheres to the high standards of the authorities and dutifully complies with local laws and regulations.

Networking and Collaboration Opportunities

A tourism license in Dubai can open many doors of networking for business owners. For instance, they can participate in local and international tourism-related events, fairs, and exhibitions. This facilitates partnerships and collaborations, thereby expanding the reach and potential of the business.

Quality Assurance and Tourist Safety

Following the licensing criteria ensures quality and safety. When businesses meet specific quality and safety standards, they tend to maintain a high level of service and customer satisfaction. Besides, the regulations and standards are enforced for the safety and security of tourists so that the growth of tourism can be sustained in Dubai.

Procedure to obtain a tourism license in Dubai

The tourism license process involves several key steps –

• Choose a Jurisdiction – Determine the jurisdiction you want to operate in, Mainland or Free Zone. While the Mainland allows direct business dealings within the UAE, free zones offer benefits such as tax exemptions and profit repatriation.
• Define your Activity – Select the specific category of activity that aligns with your business’s operations. For better advice, consult with a Shuraa expert to ensure an accurate selection of business activities.
• Select a company name – While naming your company, make sure to adhere to the strict guidelines of the UAE government. For instance, avoid offensive or blasphemous language, choose a unique name, avoid names that bear a resemblance to famous companies, etc. On the whole, comply with the regulations to avoid any rejections.
• Obtain initial approval – The initial approval is issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED) after the business owner submits the necessary application form, signed by all shareholders, along with all necessary documents.
• Site inspection – After issuing the initial approval certificate, the DED will conduct a detailed inspection of the registered office location of the tourism business.

Finally, complete the process by submitting the remaining documents and paying the license fees, as required by the authorities. Following that, the authorities will issue the tourism license and you can get started with your operations.

Documents required – tourism license in Dubai

Here’s a complete list of documents that you would require for a tourism license:-

• License application form
• Passport and UAE residence visa copies of all shareholders
• Educational and professional qualification certificate of the manager
• Clean criminal record of the company owner and manager
• NOC issued by the Civil Aviation Authority
• A detailed travel agency business plan
• Office lease agreement
• Bank letter proving sufficient funds

Key authorities involved in the process

The main authorities involved in the issuance of tourism licenses in Dubai are:-

• Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) provides tourism-related approvals.
• The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) issues approval to travel agencies involved in booking air tickets.
• The Department of Economic Development (DED) manages the overall business licensing process.

Cost of tourism license in Dubai

The tourism license cost in Dubai varies depending on the type of license and business activities you choose. Here’s a general breakdown of the overall cost –

• Trade Name Reservation
• Preliminary Approval
• License Fee
• Office Lease Agreement

Secure your license with Shuraa

Thus, the process of securing a tourism license in Dubai is quite structured with various approvals and documentation. If you carefully understand the requirements and follow the correct procedures, you can successfully establish your business in the thriving dynamic market of Dubai. Therefore, for the right preparation and guidance, you can consider expert assistance from the consultants of Shuraa Business Setup. They will navigate you through the licensing process efficiently and provide comprehensive support post setup as well.

So, embark on your business journey to Dubai today with Shuraa Business Setup!