Dubai sits right in the middle of international travel, drawing huge numbers of tourists each year, so for business-minded people, it offers real opportunities in a fast-growing sector. If your goal is to start a trip-planning service, sell guided tours, or launch a whole tourism operation, obtaining a Tourism Licence in Dubai is essential.
Holding a Dubai Travel Agency License allows legal operations and access to the city’s active travel network. Thanks to clear procedures around setting up a tourism company there, entrepreneurs can build solid ventures supported by top-tier facilities and helpful regulations while unlocking broad opportunities.
What is a Tourism Licence in Dubai?
A Tourism Licence in Dubai is a legal approval from the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) that enables individuals or firms to operate tourism ventures legally across the emirate. If your goal is to launch a travel agency, arrange guided trips, handle domestic or international tour plans, or provide visa assistance, securing this licence is essential before commencing work.
This licence is essential for launching a tourism business in Dubai, helping companies build trust while reaching global customers through partnerships with transport and accommodation providers, rather than relying solely on local outreach. Since Dubai ranks among the most visited destinations globally, obtaining this permit offers significant potential in the expanding UAE travel industry.
Who Should Apply for a Tourism License in Dubai?
A Tourism Licence in Dubai is essential for anyone planning to offer professional travel and tourism services within the emirate. You should apply for this license if you are involved in activities such as organising tours, selling travel packages, booking tickets, or offering related hospitality services.
Here’s a clear list of who needs a Dubai Travel Agency License:
Inbound and outbound tour operators
Businesses organising travel experiences for tourists coming into Dubai or arranging international travel packages.
Travel agents and ticketing companies
Agencies booking flights, hotels, holiday packages, cruises, and other travel arrangements.
Online travel platforms and booking websites
Digital companies offering tourism or travel booking services through websites or apps.
Tour guides and tourism coordinators
Individuals or businesses offering guided tours, desert safaris, city tours, adventure tourism, or heritage excursions.
Corporate travel management companies
Organisations make travel arrangements for businesses, events, and conferences.
Destination management companies (DMCs)
Firms handle end-to-end travel services, including itinerary planning, accommodation, transfers, and events.
Businesses operating cruise, yacht, and marine tourism services
Companies involved in boat rentals, yacht charters, fishing tours, or private cruise experiences.
Obtaining the proper tourism license is crucial for a successful Tourism Company Setup in Dubai, enabling companies to operate legally, build partnerships, and earn customer trust in the competitive UAE travel market.
Types of Tourism Licences in Dubai
When planning a Tourism Company Setup in Dubai, it’s essential to understand the different categories of tourism licences available. Each licence type authorises specific tourism-related activities and helps businesses legally operate within Dubai’s thriving travel sector.
Obtaining the right Tourism Licence Dubai ensures compliance with the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and enhances credibility in the global market.
Here are the main types of Dubai Travel Agency License options:
1. Inbound Tour Operator License
This licence allows businesses to organise and promote travel services for tourists visiting Dubai from other countries. Companies can arrange local tours, airport transfers, hotel bookings, desert safaris, sightseeing trips, and tourism experiences within the UAE.
2. Outbound Tour Operator License
This licence is required for agencies offering travel packages outside the UAE. Businesses can take UAE residents or travellers to international destinations and arrange visas, flights, accommodations, and global travel itineraries.
3. Travel Agent / Travel Agency License
Ideal for businesses providing ticketing and booking services. Agencies can act as intermediaries between travellers and airlines, hotels, transportation companies, cruises, and global tour operators. It covers services like flight bookings, hotel reservations, and holiday packages.
4. Tourism Activity License
For specialised tourism services such as:
- Adventure tourism (skydiving, ziplining, desert sports)
- Yacht and cruise tourism
- Cultural, heritage, and eco-tourism service providers
Choosing the correct licence type is a crucial first step toward a profitable tourism business ecosystem. For a smooth Tourism Company Setup in Dubai, many investors partner with business setup consultants to handle documentation, approvals, and compliance, all of which are necessary to launch confidently in the competitive tourism marketplace.
Benefits of Obtaining a Tourism License in Dubai
Obtaining a Tourism License in Dubai opens a gateway to endless opportunities in one of the world’s most dynamic travel and hospitality destinations.
As a global hub for tourism, business, and luxury experiences, Dubai attracts millions of visitors each year, creating a strong, profitable environment for entrepreneurs seeking to enter the travel industry.
Here are the key benefits of obtaining a Tourism License in Dubai:
1. Access to a Thriving Tourism Market
Dubai welcomes millions of international visitors annually, offering tourism businesses a vast customer base and high business growth potential.
2. Multiple Activity Options Under One License
A Dubai travel agency License allows you to provide various travel-related services, including tour operations, inbound and outbound travel arrangements, ticketing, visa assistance, and more.
3. High Revenue Potential
With consistently growing tourism numbers, travel companies enjoy strong revenue opportunities across sectors such as luxury travel, adventure tourism, corporate travel, and destination management.
4. Flexible Business Setup Options
Entrepreneurs can establish a tourism company in Dubai Mainland or in a Free Zone, depending on their business goals, budget, and operational needs.
5. 100% Foreign Ownership
Foreign investors can own their tourism company entirely, ensuring complete control and profit retention.
6. Visa Eligibility for Investors and Employees
A tourism license enables entrepreneurs to apply for investor visas and staff visas, helping them build and scale their business team.
7. Strong Global Connectivity
Dubai International Airport and Al Maktoum Airport connect to hundreds of destinations, making it an ideal base for travel and tourism companies.
8. Government Support and Business-Friendly Policies
Dubai’s tourism sector receives continuous support through strategic initiatives and events like Expo, Dubai Shopping Festival, and global travel exhibitions.
9. Enhanced Brand Credibility
Licensed travel agencies gain customer trust and industry recognition, enhancing market presence and attracting partnerships.
10. Opportunity to Innovate and Expand
Dubai encourages innovation in digital tourism, smart tours, and AI-based travel solutions, giving companies opportunities to scale globally.
Documents Required for Obtaining a Tourism License in Dubai
If you plan to apply for a tourism licence in Dubai, you will need a set of standard documents. Requirements may vary slightly depending on the exact type of licence and whether you set up on the mainland or in a free zone.
Here is a consolidated list of the typical documents/paperwork you will need when applying for a tourism license in Dubai:
- Completed tourism licence application form
- Passport copies of all shareholders/owners + visa copy (if applicable)
- Passport-size photos and entry/visa stamp copies
- Qualification proof of the manager
- Good Conduct / Police Clearance Certificate
- NOC from relevant authorities (e.g., GCAA for air-ticketing services)
- MOA & AOA / company incorporation papers
- Business plan for tourism activities
- Trade name reservation certificate
- Office lease/tenancy contract
- Feasibility report (if required)
How to Get a Tourism Licence in Dubai?
Obtaining a Tourism Licence in Dubai is an essential step if you want to start a travel-related business in the UAE. Whether you’re planning to launch a tour operator company, inbound or outbound travel services, or a Dubai Travel Agency License, the process is straightforward when you follow the proper steps.
This licence enables you to legally carry out tourism-related activities and grow your Tourism Company in Dubai smoothly.
Step 1: Define Your Tourism Business Activity
Choose the type of tourism service you will offer inbound tourism, outbound tourism, or travel agency operations. This helps determine the specific approvals needed for your Tourism Licence Dubai.
Step 2: Choose Your Business Structure & Jurisdiction
Select whether your Tourism Company Setup in Dubai will be in the Mainland or a Free Zone, and decide your company ownership structure (e.g., LLC or sole proprietorship).
Step 3: Reserve Your Trade Name
Submit 3–4 name options to the Dubai Department of Economy & Tourism (DET). After approval, your business name will be registered.
Step 4: Apply for Initial Approval
Request initial approval from the DET to ensure your tourism business activities are permissible before proceeding to licensing.
Step 5: Prepare the Required Documents
Arrange the necessary documents, including passport copies, owner/partner details, business plan, office tenancy contract (Ejari), and financial guarantee, depending on the license type.
Step 6: Obtain Approvals & Submit the Final Application
Receive special certifications and approvals required for a Dubai Travel Agency License, such as tourism manager qualifications or No-Objection Certificates. Submit all documents to the DET.
Step 7: Pay License Fees
Once documents are verified, pay the government fees for the Tourism Licence Dubai.
Step 8: Receive Your Tourism License
After payment and verification, the DET will issue your official Tourism Licence, allowing you to operate your travel and tourism company in Dubai legally.
Cost of a Tourism License in Dubai
The Dubai Tourism License Cost typically ranges from AED 20,000* to AED 50,000*, depending on factors such as the business size, selected tourism activity, office space requirements, and additional government approvals. When applying for a Tourism Licence Dubai, the final pricing may vary based on the type of permit you choose, whether it’s an inbound, outbound, or Dubai Travel Agency License.
For the most accurate and customised quotation, connect with Shuraa UK to receive a detailed breakdown customised to your business model.
Secure Your Tourism Licence in Dubai with Shuraa UK
Dubai is one of the world’s fastest-growing travel hubs, where opportunity meets innovation. With millions of tourists arriving every year, exceptional global connectivity, advanced infrastructure, and a booming hospitality sector, establishing a tourism business here is a decisive step toward long-term success.
At Shuraa UK, we make obtaining a Tourism Licence in Dubai seamless and stress-free. Our team handles everything, from selecting the right tourism activity to managing approvals, documentation, and compliance, so you can focus on growing your business without operational hurdles.
Ready to get started?
Drop us an email at info.london@shuraa.com or call +44 7538 205604. Share your ideas, and we’ll build your tourism venture from the ground up, fast, efficient, and fully compliant.
FAQs
Q1. What is a Tour Guide in Dubai?
A Tour Guide in Dubai is a licensed professional responsible for guiding tourists through popular attractions and offering insights into the UAE’s culture, history, and heritage.
Q2. Do I need a license to work as a Tour Guide in Dubai?
Yes, individuals must obtain a Tour Guide License Badge from the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) to legally work as tour guides in Dubai.
Q3. What is the Tour Guide Award Program?
The Tour Guide Award Program is a mandatory training program that covers Dubai’s history and culture, attractions, and customer service standards. Completion of this program is required before applying for a tour guide license.
Q4. What is the Tour Guide License Badge?
The Tour Guide License Badge is an official credential issued by the DET that confirms an individual’s eligibility and qualification to operate as a tour guide in Dubai.
Q5. How long is a Tourism License valid in Dubai?
A tourism license in Dubai is typically valid for one year, requiring annual renewal to ensure compliance with current regulations.
Q6. What happens if I don’t renew my Tour Guide License?
Failure to renew a license for two consecutive years can result in penalties imposed by the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).
Q7. Why does Dubai issue tourism licenses for only one year?
The one-year validity ensures businesses and professionals stay updated with the latest rules, operational standards, and regulatory guidelines.
