Tourism Business
Setup In UAE
Dubai, known for its breathtaking skyline sculpture and luxurious lifestyle that attract every individual, is one of the world’s premier tourist destinations. The city of luxury solely attracted over 16 million tourists in 2023, contributing significantly to its booming tourism sector, which is projected to grow by 4.2% annually over the next decade.
With state-of-the-art infrastructure, a strategic location linking East and West, and a validating business environment, Dubai offers distinctive opportunities for entrepreneurs looking to venture into the tourism industry.
How to open a travel agency business in UAE can be daunting for many reasons.
Numerous legal requirements can make managing everything at once frustrating for the investor. With ExpressPRO by your side, you can focus on creating unforgettable experiences for your clients while we handle the intricacies of setting up your travel agency business in Dubai.
Activities Can be Done
with a Tourism License
The moment you become a legal entity of the travel agency in UAE,
you can take advantage of the facilities, including;
Sell tourism packages
offline & online
Issue travel
insurance
Sell flight, railway
& bus tickets
Provide car
rental services
Provide accommodation
and stay options
Sell adventure
tour packages
Provide supporting
services related to visa
How to Start a Travel Agency in UAE?
Setting up a travel agency in the UAE involves a step-by-step process to continue your business activities in Dubai.
The selection of a location for the regulatory process involves the various methods to follow; this step includes;
Select Business Location
First, you must decide whether to establish your tourism business on the Mainland or in a Free Zone. Each jurisdiction has its benefits to offer:
Mainland:
This allows you to operate throughout Dubai and the UAE without limitations, but you may instruct a local sponsor to continue your business.
Free Zones:
Offer benefits like 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, and streamlined setup processes. Popular free zones for tourism businesses include Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) and Dubai Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM).
Company Registration and License
Decide on the Business Activities
Pick the specific niche for your tourism activities your business will engage in, such as:
- Travel agency operations
- Tour operator services
- Destination management
- Hotel reservations
Choose a Trade Name
Choose a unique trade name for your business that concedes with Dubai’s naming conventions. Ensure the name reflects your business activities and is not already in use. You can check the availability and reserve the name through the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) or the relevant Free Zone Authority.
Submit Initial Approval Application
Apply for initial approval to the DTCM or the relevant Free Zone Authority. This typically includes:
- A completed application form
- Passport copies and photos of the owner(s)
- A business plan outlining your tourism activities
Draft and Notarize the Memorandum of Association (MOA)
You’ll need to draft the MOA and get it notarized for specific business structures like an LLC. The MOA details your company’s shareholding structure and operational guidelines.
Lease Office Space
Secure a physical office or commercial space. Ensure the location meets the requirements set by DTCM or the relevant Free Zone Authority. You must present a tenancy contract or Ejari certificate (for the Mainland).
Final License Application
Submit the final license application and all required documents to the DTCM or the Free Zone Authority. Required documents typically include:
- Initial approval certificate
- Notarized MOA (if applicable)
- Tenancy contract or Ejari certificate
- Passport copies and photos of the owner(s)
- Business plan
Pay the Fees
You must pay the necessary licensing fees to proceed with the activity. The cost varies depending on the business activities and the chosen jurisdiction.
Obtain the Tourism License
Once your application is approved and fees are paid, you’ll receive your travel agency business setup license in Dubai, which allows you to legally conduct your tourism business in Dubai.
Open a Corporate Bank Account
Open a corporate bank account with your tourism license to manage your business finances. Choose a bank that meets your business needs and provides favorable terms for transactions and services.
Visa and Immigration
Apply for Employee Visas
Apply for visas for your employees depending on your business needs. The number of visas you can use depends on the size of your office space and the license type.
Obtain Residency Visas
As an owner, you’ll also need to obtain a residency visa. This involves a medical test, Emirates ID application, and visa stamping on your passport.
Regulatory Compliance
Follow Industry Regulations
Ensure your business complies with all industry-specific regulations and guidelines set by the DTCM or the relevant Free Zone Authority. This may include adhering to safety standards, maintaining insurance, and regularly updating licenses and permits.
Register for VAT(If Applicable)
If your business meets the VAT registration threshold, register with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) to obtain a VAT number and comply with tax regulations.
Required Documents for
Tourism License in Dubai
To proceed with the travel business license in Dubai, you must submit the required documents to the regulatory including;
- Company Registration Fees
- Trade License Fees
- Tourism License Fees
- Visa Fees for Employees
- Office Rental
- No Object Certificate from Dubai Civil Aviation Authority
- Marketing and Advertising Costs
Pricing Plans to Open
a Travel Agency Business in UAE
With years of experience assisting businesses with business licenses, ExpressPRO
provides consulting services that clear down the lane on how to open travel agency
business in Dubai smoothly.
Fill in your details below to receive a free, no-commitment call from one of our experts.