The constant growth of the tourism sector in UAE has inspired many entrepreneurs and investors to start a travel and tourism company in Dubai, UAE, and this is playing a significant role in the economy of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
A report from U.S Travel News places Dubai at the 21st spot for the top tourist destinations for 2023 -2024, thanks to the modern infrastructure, luxurious amenities, resorts and impressive skyscrapers, and favorable social-politic environment ensured by the government in the Emirate to make it an attractive destination for travellers around the world.
For entrepreneurs and investors who want to tap into this lucrative opportunity, getting a business license in Dubai is the first step to starting your company. This article will give you the complete process of navigating the legal intricacies of getting a tourism license in Dubai.
Benefits of Starting a Travel and Tourism Company in Dubai
The business environment in Dubai is favorable to foreign entrepreneurs and investors who want to start a company and offers many incentives to SMEs. Setting up a tourism company in Dubai provides you with benefits such as:
- 100% Foreign Ownership of your business.
- Zero percent income tax and corporate tax for annual revenue below AED375,000.
- World-class tourist amenities and attractions with fast and ultra-modern transport networks.
- High-speed and stable internet for online ticketing and bookings.
- Easy connectivity across three continents (Europe, Asia, and Africa).
- Low crime rate and high level of security.
- Fast and streamlined business setup procedures.
How to Get a Tourism License in Dubai
To setup a travel and tourism business in Dubai, you’ll need to acquire a tourism license from the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), permitting you to offer the business activities as specified on your acquired license.
Dubai offers three main types of tourism licenses, as listed below.
- Inbound Tourism License: For companies to offer services to visitors in UAE, such as events, local sightseeing tours, visa issuance to UAE, and hotel bookings.
- Outbound Tourism License: For companies offering visa consulting and processing services to UAE residents to travel abroad for tourism, study, work, etc.
- Travel Agency License: This license allows companies to provide a wider range of travel and tourism activities, covering outbound and inbound operations.
Steps to Get a Tourism License in Dubai
Starting a tourism business in Dubai requires minimal paperwork, but as with any other legal proceeding demands, you’ll have to complete a few steps to get your business license in Dubai.
At this stage, it is advisable to take the support of a business consulting firm in Dubai to guide you in navigating the legal procedures for setting up your company in the Emirate. Corporate Business Services (CBS) is an Emirati-owned business consulting firm in Dubai specializing in assisting entrepreneurs like you.
We can guide you in starting and running a successful business in the UAE. Below is how you can get a tourism license in Dubai.
- Draft a detailed business plan outlining your business activity, ownership structure ( LLC or Sole Establishment), and preferred jurisdiction ( Mainland or Freezone business setup in Dubai).
- Provide a unique and meaningful name for your business and register for a trade name certificate from the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).
- Gather all required documents and submit them to DET or chosen freezone authority for initial approval.
- Apply and obtain a tenancy contract (Ejari) to rent an office in Dubai.
- After initial approvals, apply for your tourism business license in Dubai.
- Pay the license fee and wait to get your business license.
- After obtaining your license, apply for visas and open a bank account in the UAE.
What Documents are Required to Setup a Tourism Company in Dubai?
Starting a travel and tour company in Dubai requires submitting a few official documents to relevant authorities. However, this may defer based on the type of tourism activity you desire to offer.
Below are the basic requirements for setting up a tourism company in Dubai.
- Valid Passport copies of all company shareholders
- A filled business registration form from DET or preferred freezone authority.
- A valid UAE visa (for residents)
- A proof of Address
- A No Objection Certificate ( If employed in UAE).
What is the Cost of Getting a Tourism License in Dubai?
When opening a company in Dubai, there is no one-size-fits-all cost for getting a specific type of trade license. The initial cost of getting a tourism license in Dubai is based on many factors, such as:
- Your preferred business structure and business activities.
- Your preferred jurisdiction.
- The number of visas required.
- Your choice of office.
How Can CBS Assist You?
Corporate Business Services (CBS), is an Emirati-owned business consulting firm in Dubai with over 17+ years of assisting entrepreneurs, investors, and SMEs navigate the legal framework in the UAE and GCC.
We specialize in providing exceptional services ranging from business licensing to compliance services in Dubai. With us by your side, you don’t need to worry about anything related to legal proceedings in the UAE. We handle everything for you, allowing you to focus on your core business operations.
Ready to start your business journey in Dubai? Our experts are here to answer all your questions and address your worries. You can book a free consultation now to get started.
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