Tourism License in Dubai
Start your travel business with confidence. We help you get your tourism agency license in Dubai quickly, easily, and hassle-free.
Tourism Agency License in Dubai, UAE
At Gulf Corporate Services, we help entrepreneurs, investors, and established businesses secure their tourism agency license in Dubai quickly and efficiently. With over 14 years of experience in UAE company formation, we specialize in guiding travel startups and established tour operators through the legal framework, documentation, and government approvals required to launch and expand in Dubai’s thriving tourism market.
Dubai is one of the most visited destinations in the world, with tourism contributing billions to the UAE’s GDP every year. A tourism license in Dubai not only allows you to operate legally but also positions your company in a sector projected to grow significantly under Dubai’s 2030 Tourism Vision. From desert safaris and inbound tours to outbound packages and ticketing services, our experts ensure your travel agency is fully compliant and ready for growth.
What Is a Tourism Agency License in Dubai?
A tourism agency license is the official approval issued by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) that allows businesses to sell travel services legally. With this license, your company can:
- Organize inbound tours such as desert safaris, sightseeing excursions, and cultural experiences.
- Offer outbound packages for UAE residents traveling abroad.
- Act as a travel agent selling flight tickets, hotel bookings, and related services.
Holding a tourism license confirms your agency is compliant with local regulations. It allows you to advertise legally, sign supplier contracts, and access corporate banking. Without a license, you risk heavy fines and suspension of services.
In short, a tourism license in Dubai transforms your travel idea into a legitimate business entity backed by DET.
Types of Tourism Licenses in Dubai
Dubai offers three main categories of tourism licenses. Choosing the right one depends on your services and target market:
Inbound Tour Operator License
- Allows you to organize tourism activities within Dubai and the UAE.
- Covers desert safaris, cultural tours, adventure trips, and event arrangements.
- Essential for businesses catering to international tourists visiting the UAE.
Outbound Tour Operator License
- Enables your agency to offer international travel packages to UAE residents.
- You can arrange flights, hotels, and tours for destinations worldwide.
- Popular with companies serving expatriates and residents seeking international holidays.
Travel Agent License (Ticketing and Booking)
- Authorizes you to sell airline tickets, book hotels, and provide travel insurance.
- May require IATA accreditation if you issue tickets directly.
- Ideal for agencies focusing on flight and hotel bookings.
Many agencies combine these categories to create a full-service travel company. Gulf Corporate Services helps you select and structure your license so your business covers all the services you plan to offer.
Mainland vs Free Zone Tourism License: Which Is Best?
When applying for a tourism license in Dubai, you must decide between Mainland (DET-issued) and Free Zone options. Each has its own benefits:
Mainland Tourism License (DET)
- Trade directly with customers anywhere in Dubai and across the UAE.
- Access to government tenders and official contracts.
- Requires Ejari (office lease) in most cases.
- Ideal for agencies targeting tourists within Dubai or UAE residents booking trips.
Free Zone Tourism License
- 100% foreign ownership guaranteed.
- Cost-effective packages and simplified setup.
- Flexible office options such as shared desks or virtual offices.
- Suited for B2B wholesalers, online-only agencies, or startups testing the market.
Still unsure? Gulf Corporate Services provides a detailed comparison of cost, visa quotas, and market access so you can choose the right model confidently.
Tourism License Requirements & Documents in Dubai
Applying for a tourism license in Dubai requires preparing accurate documents. Missing or incorrect submissions can cause delays or rejections. Here’s what is generally required:
- Passport and visa copies of owners and the appointed manager.
- Proposed trade name for your agency.
- A business plan detailing activities and services.
- Ejari (office lease) or approved free zone facility documents.
- Passport-size photos, email, and contact details.
- NOC (No Objection Certificate) if a shareholder is already on a UAE visa.
- For ticketing: additional IATA-related approvals may apply.
We prepare and review all paperwork, ensuring every document meets DET or free zone requirements before submission.
Step-by-Step Process to Get a Tourism Agency License in Dubai
The process of getting your license can seem complex, but with professional guidance, it’s smooth and efficient. Here’s how Gulf Corporate Services manages it:
- Consultation & Activity Fit – We confirm your business scope (inbound, outbound, travel agent, or combined).
- Trade Name Reservation – Apply for a compliant and unique business name.
- Initial Approval – DET or free zone application review and fee submission.
- Office/Ejari Setup – Arrange for a compliant office space or facility.
- External Approvals – Secure DET tourism activity approvals; obtain staff badges where required.
- License Issuance – Collect your official tourism license in Dubai.
- Post-License Services – Apply for establishment card, investor/employee visas, WPS registration, bank account opening, and insurance.
With our step-by-step approach, most setups complete within 2–4 weeks.
Tourism License Cost in Dubai & Setup Timeline
The cost of a tourism license in Dubai varies based on your activity, location, and office setup.
- Mainland tourism license: Approx. AED 18,000–25,000 depending on activities.
- Free Zone license: Starting from AED 12,500 with flexi-desk packages.
- Additional costs: Ejari, visas, external approvals, or IATA accreditations.
Most applications are processed within 2–4 weeks, provided documents are complete. Gulf Corporate Services provides a transparent cost breakdown before you commit, so you know exactly what to expect.
Travel Agent Approvals: IATA, DET Badge & Compliance
If your agency plans to issue airline tickets directly, you’ll likely need IATA accreditation. We help you:
- Choose between full IATA membership or working with consolidators.
- Apply for DET travel agent badges and ensure staff training is completed.
- Arrange tour guide licensing for staff offering guided tours.
- Draft compliant service contracts and customer policies.
This ensures your agency operates smoothly, passes inspections, and avoids penalties.
Tourism License Renewal in Dubai
Tourism licenses in Dubai are valid for one year and must be renewed annually. To renew, you need:
- Updated Ejari (tenancy contract).
- Cleared government fees.
- Updated documents such as manager details or shareholder changes.
Late renewals can lead to penalties or suspension. Gulf Corporate Services manages your renewals on time, ensuring uninterrupted business operations.
Why Choose Gulf Corporate Services for Your Tourism License in Dubai?
Choosing the right consultancy is crucial for a smooth setup. At Gulf Corporate Services, we provide:
- 14+ years of experience in UAE travel and tourism company formation.
- End-to-end support: DET filings, external approvals, visas, and renewals.
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
- Ongoing compliance support for VAT, WPS, and staff visas.
- Local market insights to position your agency for success.
Our mission is to make the licensing process fast, compliant, and hassle-free so you can focus on building your travel business.
Ready to start your journey? Contact Gulf Corporate Services today and get your tourism agency license in Dubai without delays.
Start Your Travel Agency in Dubai Today
Dubai’s tourism industry is a pillar of its economy, attracting millions of visitors every year. Obtaining a tourism agency license in Dubai positions your company to benefit from this growing market while ensuring full compliance with DET regulations.
With Gulf Corporate Services, you don’t just get a license—you gain a long-term partner committed to your success. Whether you’re launching a boutique inbound operator or a global travel agency, our team ensures your setup is smooth, cost-effective, and future-ready.