The UAE remains one of the world’s most attractive tourism destinations, drawing millions of visitors every year with luxury resorts, cultural attractions, international events, sandy beaches, and futuristic architecture. With the tourism sector continuing to expand, many entrepreneurs are exploring opportunities to launch travel agencies, tour operator services, inbound tourism businesses, and adventure-based experiences.
If you’re planning to tap into this fast-growing industry, obtaining a tourism business license in UAE is the first essential step. Whether you’re looking to operate a tour company, organize desert safaris, offer travel packages, or manage holiday rentals, understanding the licensing structure and compliance requirements will help you launch confidently.
This 2025 guide explains the process, documentation, fees, and legal requirements needed to start a tourism business successfully.
Why Start a Tourism Business in the UAE?
The UAE tourism economy continues to grow year after year, fueled by global visibility, world-class infrastructure, and government support. The sector benefits from:
- 15+ million annual international visitors
- Year-round events and tourism seasons
- A strong aviation network (Dubai and Abu Dhabi hubs)
- Tax-friendly policies and business incentives
- Increased demand for cultural, adventure, and luxury travel
For entrepreneurs, the UAE offers an ideal environment to develop a thriving tourism business with global reach.
Types of UAE Tourism Business Licenses
Before applying, it’s important to choose the correct tourism license category. The UAE offers three main types depending on your business activities:
1. Inbound Tour Operator License
For companies offering travel services to foreign visitors entering the UAE. Activities may include:
- Desert safaris
- City tours
- Event and tour packages
- Hotel booking assistance
2. Outbound Tour Operator License
For companies offering travel packages outside the UAE for UAE residents and visitors.
This includes:
- Ticketing
- International tour packages
- Travel holiday bundles
3. Travel Agency License
For businesses acting as intermediaries to sell airline tickets, hotel bookings, and tourism-related services. Airlines accreditation may be required depending on services.
Some entrepreneurs apply for a combined tourism license to operate inbound, outbound, and ticketing services under one entity.
Step-by-Step Process to Get a Tourism Business License in UAE (2025)
Setting up a tourism business involves approvals from both economic authorities and tourism regulators. Here is a simplified breakdown of the process.
Step 1: Choose Your Jurisdiction
You can set up your business in:
- Mainland (Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, etc.)
- Free zone (such as Dubai Tourism Free Zone or Sharjah Media City)
Mainland licenses allow full operational flexibility within the UAE, while free zones are ideal for digital tourism service providers.
Step 2: Select Your Business Activity
Ensure your chosen activities match the official approved activity list. Tourism activities must be accurate to avoid penalties during inspections or renewals.
Step 3: Choose a Trade Name
Your business name must follow UAE naming rules and avoid restricted terms. Approval typically takes 24–48 hours.
Step 4: Submit Initial Application
Apply through the relevant government body such as:
- Department of Economy & Tourism (DET) – Dubai
- Sharjah DED, Abu Dhabi DED, or respective free zone authorities
Step 5: Get Approval from the Tourism Department
Tourism regulator approval is mandatory before license issuance. Tourism authorities may request:
- Business plan
- Experience proof
- Security deposit
- Insurance documentation
Step 6: Rent an Office Space (If Required)
Some tourism activities require approved commercial office space and Ejari registration. Free zones may allow shared offices or flexi-desk options.
Step 7: Finalize Tourism Insurance & Bank Guarantee
Tourism authorities may require:
- A refundable bank guarantee
- Third-party liability insurance
These protect consumers and ensure compliance.
Step 8: Pay License Fees and Receive Issuance
Once all documentation is verified and fees are paid, the tourism license will be issued. Processing timelines may vary depending on activity complexity and approvals.
Required Documents for Tourism License Application
While requirements vary by emirate, the most common documents include:
- Passport copies of shareholders
- Emirates ID (if applicable)
- Passport-sized photo
- Trade name reservation
- Office lease or Ejari certificate
- Business plan (for certain tourism activities)
- No-objection certificate (if converting from employment visa)
Free zones may request fewer documents.
Expected Costs to Start a Tourism Business in UAE (2025)
Pricing varies by jurisdiction and business structure. On average:
- Free zone tourism license: AED 12,000–30,000
- Mainland tourism license: AED 15,000–50,000 (depending on activity and approvals)
- Bank guarantee: AED 50,000–200,000 (activity-dependent)
- Optional visas: AED 3,500–7,500 per visa
Costs may be lower for new entrepreneurs using flexi-desk models or bundled business setup packages.
Do You Need a Residency Visa to Start a Tourism Business?
A visa is not mandatory to issue a license, but having one provides advantages:
- Bank account access
- Tax residency eligibility
- Business ownership and compliance autonomy
Many business owners obtain an investor visa during or after license issuance.
Scaling Your Tourism Business in the UAE
Once operational, you can expand by adding activities such as:
- Hotel management
- Yacht tourism
- Cruise tourism
- Event hosting and travel coordination
- Travel tech platforms
With the UAE’s stable tourism demand and long-term investment plans, scaling opportunities are strong and diverse.
FAQs
1. Can I get a tourism business license in the UAE without being in the country?
Yes. Many free zones and mainland authorities allow remote setup with digital verification.
2. Does a tourism company need a bank guarantee?
Yes. Tourism regulators often require a refundable bank guarantee for compliance and consumer protection.
3. What’s the difference between inbound and outbound licenses?
Inbound licenses allow tourism activities within the UAE, while outbound licenses authorize international travel packages.
4. How long does approval take?
License processing may take 10–30 working days depending on documentation and tourism activity complexity.
5. Can I sponsor employees and family members?
Yes. After obtaining your trade license and investor visa, you can sponsor staff and eligible family members.