Dubai is one of the most visited cities in the world, known for its modern skyline, luxury hotels, and desert adventures. With millions of tourists arriving each year, the travel industry here is full of opportunities. Many entrepreneurs and agencies want to set up their own tourism business in the city. To start, they must first secure a license that allows them to operate legally. Understanding the travel and tourism license cost in Dubai is an important step in planning. Whether you are looking at a Dubai tourism business setup or applying for a Dubai travel agency license, knowing the cost of a tourism license helps you budget and grow with confidence.
What is a Travel and Tourism License in Dubai?
A travel and tourism license in Dubai is a legal permit that allows companies to run tourism-related activities in the city. Dubai is one of the world’s busiest tourist hubs, and the government makes sure that businesses in this sector operate in a professional and trusted way. That’s why getting a license is the first step for anyone planning a Dubai tourism business setup.
This license is required by:
- Travel agents who sell flight tickets, hotel bookings, or holiday packages.
- Tour operators who arrange tours inside Dubai or to other countries.
- Holiday planners who design custom trips for families, groups, or corporate clients.
The license covers a wide range of activities. For example, it allows you to book airline tickets, arrange hotel stays, organize desert safaris, or even manage international tours. Without it, you cannot legally run these services.
If you are thinking about a travel agency setup in Dubai, this license is your key. It also applies to companies that want a tour operator license in Dubai for inbound and outbound trips. While the cost of a tourism license depends on the type of business and location, the benefits of having one are huge. It gives you full legal approval to operate and builds trust with your customers.
Whether you are opening a small Dubai travel agency license for local tours or planning to manage international packages, this license is your foundation to start strong.
Types of Travel and Tourism Licenses in Dubai
When starting a tourism business in Dubai, you first need to decide which license fits your goals. The government offers different options depending on the services you plan to provide.
Inbound Tour Operator License
This license allows you to organize tours for people visiting Dubai. With it, you can arrange desert safaris, city tours, cultural trips, and hotel bookings for international visitors. If your focus is bringing tourists into Dubai and showing them around, this is the right fit.
Outbound Tour Operator License
This license is for companies that send people from Dubai to other countries. It allows you to plan international holiday packages, book tickets, and create group tours abroad. If your clients are Dubai residents or UAE visitors looking to travel outside the country, this license works best.
Travel Agency License
A travel agency license gives you the authority to sell airline tickets, hotel packages, and other travel-related services. Many businesses choose this option because it combines both ticketing and travel packages. It is also one of the most common types of licenses in Dubai.
Actionable Tip: Before applying, think about your business scope. If your main goal is to attract tourists to Dubai, go for the inbound license. If you want to send people abroad, the outbound license is better. For a mix of services, a travel agency license is the most flexible choice.
Travel and Tourism License Cost in Dubai
Setting up a tourism business in Dubai comes with some costs. On average, the travel and tourism license price ranges between 15,000 AED and 30,000 AED . The final amount depends on your business type, location, and requirements.
To give you a clearer picture, here’s a breakdown of the common expenses:
- Trade Name Registration – Every business needs a unique name, and you’ll pay a small fee to reserve it.
- Initial Approval Fees – This is an early approval from Dubai authorities to move forward with your tourism license.
- Tourism License Fee – The main cost that allows you to legally run your travel or tour company.
- Office Rental (if required) – Some setups need a physical office. Rent can add to your total expenses, especially on the mainland.
- Bank Guarantee (if applicable) – Certain tourism activities may require a refundable security deposit with the bank.
Tip: If you choose a free zone, you may save on office rental and other overhead costs. On the other hand, a mainland setup often gives you more flexibility with business activities.
In short, while the cost of Dubai tourism business setup may look high at first, it is a long-term investment. Getting the right license ensures your business runs legally and builds trust with customers.
Factors That Affect the License Cost
The cost of a travel and tourism license in Dubai is not the same for everyone. Several factors can change the final price. Knowing these can help you plan your budget better.
Type of Tourism Business
The kind of service you offer plays a big role.
- A travel agency focused on ticket bookings may have different costs than a tour operator handling large group packages.
- Inbound licenses usually cover tourists visiting Dubai, while outbound licenses allow you to organize trips outside the UAE.
Choosing the right license type is the first step in estimating your total cost.
Business Location: Mainland vs Free Zone
Where you set up your company also affects the price.
- A Dubai mainland license often requires higher fees but gives you more freedom to trade directly in the local market.
- A Dubai free zone tourism license can be more affordable, with added benefits like 100% ownership for expats.
Each option has pros and cons, so the decision depends on your business goals.
Office Space and Ejari Registration
Some licenses require you to rent office space.
- On the mainland, an Ejari (tenancy contract) is often needed, which adds to the cost.
- In some free zones, you can start with a flexi-desk or shared office, which lowers expenses.
If you plan to expand, having a physical office may be a smart investment despite the extra cost.
4. Additional Approvals
Certain tourism businesses need extra approvals from government bodies.
- For example, handling flight bookings or hotel partnerships may require extra permissions.
- Each approval adds to the total fee.
If you want to learn more about setting up a business in Dubai, check out our detailed guide here: Register a Company in Dubai.
A small travel agency set up in the Dubai mainland with a physical office will usually pay more than a free zone business that uses a flexi-desk. The cost difference comes from office rent, Ejari registration, and additional mainland fees.
Steps to Get a Travel and Tourism License in Dubai
Starting a travel and tourism business in Dubai may look complex, but the process is quite straightforward once you know the steps. Here’s a clear breakdown of what you need to do:
Reserve a Trade Name
The first step is to choose a unique trade name for your company. This name should reflect your business and follow Dubai’s naming rules. Once approved, your trade name will be officially reserved.
Apply for Initial Approval
Next, you need to get initial approval from the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). This shows that your business idea is acceptable and you can move ahead with the licensing process.
Submit Required Documents
You will be asked to provide certain documents, such as passport copies, application forms, and proof of office space (if required). Make sure everything is accurate to avoid delays.
Pay Fees and Collect the License
Once your documents are checked and approved, you will need to pay the license fees. After payment, you will receive your official travel and tourism license, allowing you to legally run your business in Dubai.
Actionable Tip: The process can be time-consuming if you are not familiar with the system. Working with a PRO service or a typing center in Dubai can save you time and help you avoid mistakes.
Benefits of Getting a Tourism License in Dubai
Starting a tourism business in Dubai comes with many advantages. With a valid license, you step into one of the fastest-growing industries in the UAE. Here are some key benefits:
Access to a Booming Tourism Market
Dubai welcomes millions of visitors every year. From luxury travelers to budget explorers, the city attracts people from all over the world. Having a tourism license allows you to tap into this huge market and grow your business.
Ability to Partner with Airlines and Hotels
A licensed tourism company can work directly with airlines, hotels, and travel portals. These partnerships make it easier to create attractive packages for customers. It also adds more value to your services, helping you stand out from competitors.
Legal Credibility with Customers
Travelers prefer working with licensed agencies because it builds trust. Your tourism license shows that your business follows UAE laws and offers genuine services. This credibility can help you win long-term clients and referrals.
Opportunities for Inbound and Outbound Packages
With a Dubai tourism license, you can serve both inbound and outbound travelers. This means you can arrange tours within the UAE or organize trips for people traveling abroad. It gives your business flexibility and more earning potential.
In short, the Dubai tourism business benefits are endless. If you are wondering why start a tourism company in Dubai, the answer is clear: the opportunities are huge, the market is strong, and the future is bright for entrepreneurs in this field.
Common Questions About Tourism License Cost in Dubai
Starting a travel business in Dubai often raises many questions. Here are some of the most common ones to help clear your doubts.
How much is a travel agency license in Dubai?
The cost usually ranges between 15,000 AED to 30,000 AED, depending on the type of license and business setup. Mainland licenses may cost more than free zone ones. Always check the latest fees before applying.
Is office space mandatory?
Yes, in most cases you need an office or workspace for your license approval. Free zones may offer flexi-desks, while mainland setups often require a proper office with Ejari registration.
Can foreigners own a tourism company in Dubai?
Yes, foreigners can fully own a travel and tourism company in Dubai free zones. In the mainland, recent rules also allow 100% ownership in many cases, making it easier for investors to start their business.
How long does it take to get a license?
The process is fairly quick. If your documents are complete, it may take two to four weeks to get the license. Working with a PRO service or a typing center can save you time.
Do I need a local sponsor?
In many free zones, you don’t need a local sponsor. For mainland companies, rules have changed, and several activities now allow full foreign ownership. It’s best to confirm with the relevant authority before applying.
Ready to Start Your Tourism Business in Dubai?
Dubai is more than just a travel destination—it’s a global hub for tourism entrepreneurs. With millions of visitors arriving every year, the city offers unmatched opportunities for travel agencies, tour operators, and holiday planners.
The cost of a travel and tourism license in Dubai depends on your setup, business model, and location. Whether you choose a free zone or mainland, getting the right license is the first step to building a trusted and profitable business.
Setting up can feel overwhelming if you’re doing it alone. That’s why working with experts makes the process smoother, faster, and stress-free.
Need help with your travel and tourism license in Dubai? Contact SH Typing Center today and book your 30 minutes free consultation to get started hassle-free!
