The UAE continues to shine as a top global tourist destination, welcoming millions of visitors each year. In the first half of 2024 alone, Dubai attracted over 10 million tourists, with the tourism market forecasted to grow by 3.93% annually from 2024 to 2029. Ranked among the top 10 destinations in the 2023 World Tourism Rankings and generating over $24 billion in tour sales last year, Dubai’s thriving tourism sector presents a golden opportunity for entrepreneurs. By securing a travel and tourism license, you can tap into this flourishing market and build a highly profitable business.
The UAE government actively supports the tourism industry through initiatives such as streamlined licensing processes, tax incentives for foreign investors, and continuous improvements to infrastructure and hospitality services. With a Dubai tourism license, you can establish a legitimate, thriving business while leveraging the sector’s tremendous growth potential.
A Dubai tourism license enables you to offer a wide range of services. Whether you wish to operate tours, manage a travel agency, or provide leisure experiences, the opportunities are vast.
1. Inbound Tour Operator License
Organize tours within the UAE, including city tours, desert safaris, cultural excursions, and conferences. You can also offer transportation services for tourists.
2. Outbound Tour Operator License
Create and sell international travel packages, book flights, hotels, and overseas excursions, helping UAE residents and visitors plan trips abroad.
3. Travel Agent License
Offer a comprehensive range of travel services, including flight bookings, hotel reservations, travel insurance, tourism visa assistance, and packaged tours.
Tourism licenses are issued either through a mainland registration (via the Department of Economic Development – DED) or a free zone authority, with final approval from Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM).
Define your business activity (inbound tours, outbound tours, travel agency, etc.).
Choose your jurisdiction: Mainland or Free Zone.
Select a business name.
Decide on a legal structure (sole proprietorship, LLC, etc.).
Prepare and submit required documents.
Obtain initial approvals from the registering authority and DTCM.
Secure an office space if required.
Receive your tourism license.
Open a corporate bank account.
Completed application form
Passports and visas of shareholders
Shareholders’ details
Clean criminal record certificate
Business plan
Additional documents may be needed, such as proof of professional qualifications or No Objection Certificates.
Recent Updates:
The UAE government has canceled the previous bank guarantee requirement of AED 100,000–200,000 and removed the minimum office space requirement, significantly simplifying the setup process.
1. Flourishing Tourism Sector
Dubai offers year-round demand for tours and leisure activities, with significant peak seasons like New Year’s Eve. The city’s luxurious experiences, stunning beaches, and business hubs attract millions of visitors.
2. Enhanced Credibility
Holding a valid tourism license increases your trustworthiness among clients, assuring them of your compliance with industry regulations and protecting them from potential fraud.
3. Legal Compliance
Running a licensed business ensures full legal protection and allows you to operate confidently under Dubai’s regulatory framework.
4. Favorable Business Environment
Dubai offers one of the world’s most business-friendly environments, featuring a 0% tax rate for small businesses (with turnover under AED 3 million) and a low 9% corporate tax rate above that threshold. Business owners also enjoy 100% ownership, full profit repatriation, and multi-currency bank account options.
The cost of obtaining a tourism license varies based on the type of activity and the registering authority.
| License Type | Starting Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Inbound Tour Operator | 14,999 |
| Outbound Tour Operator | 20,000 |
| Travel Agency | 35,000+ |
Additional Fees:
Initial Approval: AED 120
Trade Name Reservation: AED 620
Dubai Tourism Authority Approval: AED 10,000
Note: Costs for office rental, employee visas, and consulting services may also apply.
At visakingsdubai, we bring over a decade of experience helping businesses thrive across the UAE. Our team understands the regulatory landscape and offers end-to-end support tailored to your needs.
Our services include:
Licensing assistance
Visa processing for employees and investors
Corporate bank account setup
Securing necessary approvals
Accounting and financial reporting
We don’t just help you set up your company — we stay by your side as your trusted partner for long-term success.
The brand name Visa Kings Global is used under licence by Visa Success Limited. Visa Success Limited is not a firm of solicitors and is not regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. Visa Success Limited does not give financial, legal or tax advice.
Information affecting all users of this website can be found on our Legal Notices page which you are deemed to have read and accepted.
