Starting a tourism business in Dubai was a rewarding entrepreneurial journey. It offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers, from desert safaris to skyscrapers. Discover a step-by-step guide to launch your venture, navigate regulations, and tap into the city’s global appeal. Unleash your passion for hospitality, create unforgettable memories for tourists, and carve a niche in Dubai’s dynamic tourism landscape.
Step to get a tourism License
To obtain a tourism company license on the Dubai mainland, it is necessary to follow the necessary steps and fulfill the requirements set by the relevant authorities. A general overview of this process is as follows.
Consultation:
- Seek professional advice from a business consultant or legal expert who can guide you through the process and ensure compliance with the regulations.
Determining business activity
- Identify the specific tourism-related activities that the company will engage in, such as tour operators, travel agencies, and destination management companies. This determines the type of license that is needed.
Company Formation:
- Choose a suitable legal structure for your company, such as a Limited Liability Company (LLC) or sole proprietorship. LLC is a common choice for foreign investors in Dubai.
- Select a business name that complies with the guidelines provided by the Department of Economic Development (DED).
Location and office spaces
- Identify a suitable office location for a tourism company on the Dubai mainland.
- Ensure that the office space meets the requirements of the DED and other relevant authorities.
Initial Approval:
- Submit the required documents to the DED for initial approval. The documents typically include a completed application form, copies of passports and visas of the company’s owners, the proposed business plan, and a legal agreement with the local partner, among others.
- Pay the necessary fees for the initial approval process.
Trade names and license reservations
- Reserve your company’s trade name through DED.
- Obtain preliminary approval for your trade name and pay the required fees.
Lease Agreement and Ejari Registration
- Signing a lease agreement in your office space.
- Register the lease agreement with Ejari, an online registration system for tenancy contracts in Dubai.
Final approval and license issues
- Fulfill any additional requirements specific to your business activity, such as obtaining special permits or clearances from relevant authorities (e.g., Dubai Tourism for travel agencies).
- Submit the required documents, including the lease agreement, Ejari registration, and any additional permits to the DED for final approval.
- Required pay fees.
- Upon final approval, the DED issues the tourism company’s license.
Post-License Procedures
- Register relevant industry associations and authorities such as the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Dubai Tourism.
- Obtain any additional certifications or permits required for specific activities, such as tour guide licenses.
It is important to note that the process and requirements may vary depending on specific business activities, legal structures, and other factors. Working with a professional consultant or legal expert experienced in the business setup on mainland Dubai will help ensure a smooth and successful process.
Documents Required to Get a Tourism License
- Valid Passport
Commercial activities in Tourism license
The commercial activities included in a tourism license in Dubai can vary based on the specific type of license and scope of services offered. However, some common commercial activities can be included in tourism licenses:
Inbound Tour Operator:
- Organizing and selling tour packages and services to tourists visiting Dubai.
- Provide transportation, accommodation, sightseeing tours, and other tourist activities
Outbound Tour Operator:
- Organize and sell tour packages and services for Dubai residents and tourists traveling to other destinations outside Dubai or the UAE.
- Facilitating flights, accommodations, transfers, and activities for outbound travelers.
Travel Agency:
- Providing travel-related services such as flight bookings, hotel reservations, visa assistance, and travel insurance.
- Acting as an intermediary between customers and travel service providers.
Tour Guide Services:
- Provide professional tour guides who accompany tourists and provide information and insights about Dubai’s attractions, history, culture, and traditions.
Ticketing Services:
- Selling tickets for various tourist attractions, entertainment venues, theme parks, shows, and events in Dubai.
These are examples of commercial activities that can be included in tourism licenses in Dubai. It is important to consult with the relevant authorities and seek professional advice to ensure compliance with specific regulations and requirements for your intended business activities.