Tourism License in Dubai, UAE | Start Your Travel, Tour, or Hospitality Business with HT360
Introduction
Dubai is a global tourism powerhouse — attracting over 17 million visitors annually and ranking among the world’s top travel destinations. For entrepreneurs in the travel, tour, and hospitality industry, obtaining a Tourism License in Dubai, UAE | Start Your Travel, Tour, or Hospitality Business with HT360 is the first step to operating legally and tapping into this booming market. A Tourism License allows businesses to organize tours, book travel services, operate hotels, manage holiday homes, or conduct destination management. With HT360 Business Setup, you can secure your Tourism License quickly and easily, ensuring full compliance with Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) regulations.
What Is a Tourism License in Dubai?
A Tourism License is an official authorization issued by the DTCM (Dubai Tourism) that allows companies to conduct travel and tourism-related activities in Dubai and across the UAE. It’s mandatory for businesses that manage or sell tour packages, hotel stays, transportation, travel services, or recreational activities. Depending on your services, you can choose from three main types of tourism licenses in Dubai.
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Types of Tourism Licenses in Dubai
Inbound Tour Operator License
This license allows you to organize and sell tours within Dubai and the UAE for visitors coming from abroad.
Permitted Activities:
- Organizing local sightseeing tours
- Managing cultural and heritage excursions
- Providing travel packages for international tourists
- Coordinating desert safaris, cruises, and theme park visits
- Handling hotel reservations and local transport services
Ideal For:
Destination Management Companies (DMCs), inbound travel agents, and adventure tour operators.
Outbound Tour Operator License
This license is for companies that arrange outbound tours — sending UAE residents and expats to international destinations.
Permitted Activities:
- Selling outbound tour packages
- Airline and hotel booking for overseas trips
- Visa assistance and travel insurance
- Partnering with international tour operators
Ideal For:
Travel agencies and international holiday planners.
Travel Agency License (Ticketing License)
This license authorizes businesses to act as travel agents or ticketing agencies.
Permitted Activities:
- Booking and issuing flight tickets
- Managing hotel and car rental reservations
- Offering tourism consultancy services
- Providing group travel arrangements
Ideal For:
Airline representatives, online travel agencies (OTAs), and booking platforms.
Additional Tourism Activities Allowed
Depending on your license type and DTCM approval, you can also engage in:
- Hotel and resort management
- Cruise and yacht operations
- Holiday home management
- Event and conference tourism
- Corporate travel management
- Adventure and eco-tourism
Benefits of a Tourism License in Dubai
✅ Operate legally in the UAE’s tourism sector
✅ 100% foreign ownership (for most activities)
✅ Access to Dubai’s global tourist network
✅ Ability to issue tourist visas through DTCM
✅ Tax-free profits and full capital repatriation
✅ Partner with international travel companies
✅ Opportunity to open branches across the UAE
Documents Required for a Tourism License
To apply for a Tourism License, you’ll need:
- Passport copies of shareholders and manager
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) if applicable
- Trade name reservation certificate
- Initial approval from the DTCM and DED
- Memorandum of Association (MOA)
- Office lease contract (Ejari)
- Bank guarantee (if required by activity type)
How to Get a Tourism License in Dubai with HT360
The process may seem complex, but with HT360 Business Setup, it’s seamless:
Step 1: Define your tourism activities (inbound, outbound, ticketing).
Step 2: Reserve your business trade name.
Step 3: Obtain initial approval from DTCM and DED.
Step 4: Prepare and notarize your MOA.
Step 5: Secure an office lease or shared workspace (Ejari).
Step 6: Submit your final application with HT360.
Step 7: Receive your Tourism License and start operations!
Tourism License Cost in Dubai
The cost of obtaining a Tourism License in Dubai depends on your business model and activities.
- Inbound or Outbound Tour License: AED 15,000 – 20,000
- Travel Agency / Ticketing License: AED 20,000 – 25,000
- Comprehensive Tourism License (all services): AED 30,000 – 35,000
Tourism License Renewal in Dubai
Your Tourism License must be renewed annually.
You’ll need:- Valid Ejari (office lease)
- Updated trade license documents
- DTCM renewal fee payment
Why Choose HT360 for Your Tourism Business Setup
HT360 provides complete end-to-end support for tourism and hospitality entrepreneurs:
DTCM & DED approval coordination
Visa quota and investor visa services
Banking and accounting setup assistance
FAQ’s
1. What is a Tourism License in Dubai?
A Tourism License is a permit that allows companies to operate legally in the UAE’s travel, hospitality, and tourism industries.
2. Who issues Tourism Licenses in Dubai?
The Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) and the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).
3. What are the types of Tourism Licenses?
Three types — Inbound Tour Operator, Outbound Tour Operator, and Travel Agency (Ticketing).
4. Can foreigners own a tourism business in Dubai?
Yes, 100% foreign ownership is allowed in most tourism activities.
5. What documents are required for a Tourism License?
Passport copies, NOC (if applicable), MOA, Ejari, and initial approval from DTCM/DED.
6. What is the cost of a Tourism License in Dubai?
Around AED 15,000 to AED 35,000, depending on your activity and business model.
7. How long does it take to get a Tourism License?
Usually 5–10 business days, with HT360 handling all approvals.
8. Do I need an office for a Tourism License?
Yes, a physical or shared office space (Ejari) is required.
9. Can I apply for a Tourism License online?
Yes, HT360 can handle your entire Tourism License application online.
10. Why choose HT360 for tourism business setup?
HT360 offers expert support, fast approvals, and transparent pricing — making your business setup simple and compliant.