How to Set Up a Tourism or Travel Agency in the UAE

With over 20 million visitors to Dubai alone in 2024, the UAE’s tourism sector is one of the most dynamic in the world. From inbound tour operators and destination management companies to outbound travel agents and holiday home managers, the opportunities are vast.

What Licence Do You Need?

Tourism businesses require a tourism licence, which is a specialised category within the commercial licence framework. In Dubai, tourism licences are issued under the oversight of the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and DTCM. Common activities include inbound tour operator, outbound tour operator, travel agent, tourism transport, and holiday home management.

Where to Set Up

Tourism is primarily a mainland activity. Mainland licences allow you to operate tours, manage bookings, and serve customers directly across the UAE. Some free zones may offer tourism-related activities, but the scope is typically more limited than mainland. For holiday home management specifically, Dubai requires DTCM registration and compliance with specific property management regulations.

Regulatory Requirements

Tourism licences require DTCM approval in Dubai, or the equivalent tourism authority in other emirates. You will need to demonstrate financial capability (some categories require a bank guarantee or insurance bond), and your staff may need tourism-related training or certification.

Travel agents handling airline ticketing typically need IATA accreditation or a partnership with an IATA-accredited agency.

The Setup Process

Expect two to four weeks for the trade licence, followed by one to four weeks for DTCM registration and additional approvals. Banking takes three to six weeks.

Total: approximately six to ten weeks.

What It Costs

A mainland tourism licence in Dubai costs approximately AED 25,000 to AED 45,000 for the first year, including the licence, premises, DTCM registration, and one visa. Bank guarantees or insurance bonds add to the initial capital requirement.