Hotel and Tourism Licences in Dubai

Dubai is one of the world’s leading tourism destinations, and the sector is carefully regulated. Hotels, hotel apartments, holiday homes, tour operators and travel agencies need specific approvals from Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), in addition to a trade licence.

Dawn Consultancy guides investors and operators through tourism licensing: selecting the right activity, preparing applications, coordinating approvals and setting up accounting, VAT and tourism fee compliance once you are trading.

Tourism activities we support

Hotels and hotel apartments
Holiday home operators and property management
Tour operators and inbound tourism companies
Travel agencies
Desert safari and excursion operators
Event and destination management companies
Restaurants and hospitality businesses linked to tourism

The licensing process

Activity selection. We identify the correct tourism and commercial activities and any classification requirements.
Structure. We advise on mainland or free zone set-up and ownership.
Initial approval. Applications and supporting documents are submitted to the licensing authority.
Premises and approvals. Premises, fit-out and any required inspections or third-party approvals are coordinated.
Licence issuance. The trade and tourism licences are issued.
Operational set-up. Visas, bank account, VAT registration and systems.

Financial compliance for tourism businesses

VAT on accommodation, packages and commissions, including the treatment of tourism fees collected from guests
Tourism Dirham and municipality fee collection and reporting where applicable
Revenue management and night audit controls for hotels
Supplier and agent reconciliations for tour operators
Corporate Tax registration and returns

Why choose Dawn Consultancy

One team for licensing, accounting, VAT and Corporate Tax
Practical understanding of how tourism businesses earn and record revenue
Controls designed for cash-intensive and commission-based operations
Support with annual renewals and regulatory changes

Related services

See our mainland company formation, VAT registration and business plan services.

Frequently asked questions

Which authority licenses tourism businesses in Dubai?

Tourism activities in Dubai are regulated by the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), which also issues trade licences for mainland businesses.

Do holiday home operators need a licence?

Yes. Operating short-term rental holiday homes in Dubai requires registration with DET and a permit for each unit.

How is VAT applied to hotel stays?

Hotel accommodation is generally subject to standard-rate VAT. Tourism-related fees collected from guests also need to be treated correctly in invoicing and returns. We advise on your specific revenue streams.

Can a tourism company be 100% foreign owned?

Many activities now permit full foreign ownership on the mainland, but requirements depend on the specific activity. We confirm the position for your business.

Speak to our team

Tell us which tourism activity you plan to operate and where, and we will outline the approvals, timeline and costs.

Call +971 55 441 1036, email info@dawnconsultancy.com or visit us at Office 1509, Citadel Tower, Business Bay. Contact us to arrange a consultation.

Hotel & Tourism Licence in Dubai, UAE | Dawn Consultancy