The United Arab Emirates stands among the world’s top travel destinations, drawing millions of visitors every year. Iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa and the Palm Jumeirah in Dubai and the cultural richness of Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, combined with world-class shopping, luxury resorts, and desert adventures, make the country a unique blend of tradition and modernity. With this growth, opportunities for entrepreneurs in the travel and tourism industry are booming. The government also encourages them to encourage investments through streamlined licensing procedures, tax benefits, and business-friendly regulations that make it easier to establish tourism companies, travel agencies, and hospitality ventures. To legally operate a tourism-related business, obtaining a tourism license in the UAE is essential.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of tourism licenses in the UAE for 2025, covering the types of licenses, requirements, costs, and the steps to obtain one.

What is a Tourism License in the UAE?

A tourism license in the UAE is an essential permit issued by the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), allowing businesses to legally operate within the travel and tourism sector. This license not only authorizes companies to offer tourism-related services but also ensures compliance with the country’s regulatory standards, building trust and credibility with both customers and industry partners.

Businesses that usually require a tourism license include:

• Travel agencies
• Tour operators
• Inbound and outbound tourism companies
• Holiday homes rental operators
• Cruise and safari organizers

Types of Tourism Licenses in UAE

The UAE offers different types of tourism licenses, depending on the nature of the business. In 2025, the three primary categories remain:

Inbound Tourism License

This license allows businesses to organize local tours within the UAE for tourists visiting the country. Services may include sightseeing packages, desert safaris, cultural tours, and city excursions.

Outbound Tourism License

Companies with this license can organize and sell international tour packages. They help residents and visitors in the UAE travel abroad by arranging flights, hotel bookings, and holiday itineraries.

Travel Agency License

This license authorizes businesses to act as agents for airlines, issue tickets, and provide travel-related services such as hotel bookings, visa assistance, and transportation arrangements.

Documents Required for Getting a Tourism License in UAE

To qualify for a tourism license in the UAE, businesses must meet certain conditions:

• Filled application form (provided by the authority)
• Valid passport copies of all applicants
• Manager’s professional qualification certificate and work experience proof
• Owner’s clean criminal record certificate & certificate of good conduct
• Economic and technical feasibility study report of the project
• No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Civil Aviation Authority

Steps to Get a Tourism License in UAE (2025)

The process of applying for a tourism license involves several steps:

1. Choose Your Business Activity – Define whether you want to operate inbound tours, outbound services, or a travel agency.
2. Select Location – Decide between mainland or free zone setup. 
3. Submit Initial Application – Apply to the concerned tourism authority with your business plan, required documents, and proposed trade name.
4. Fulfill Office Requirements – Lease an office space if required and present tenancy contracts for approval.
5. Appoint a Qualified Manager – Ensure that your company has a certified tourism manager approved by the tourism authority.
6. Pay Fees and Security Deposit – Complete the financial requirements, including the license fee and security deposit.
7. Receive License – Once approved, you will be issued your tourism license, after which you can legally start operations.

How to Get a Tourism License in UAE (2025)

Choose Your Jurisdiction

• Mainland: Direct access to UAE market and government projects.
• Freezone: Tax benefits, 100% foreign ownership, and full profit repatriation.

Define Your Business Activity

• Pick the category that fits your operations: inbound, outbound, or agency.

Select a Company Name

• Must be unique and follow UAE naming rules.
• Avoid offensive terms, religious references, or trademarked names.

Obtain Initial Approval

• Submit application and documents to the DED.
• Approval confirms eligibility to proceed.

Site Inspection

• DED inspects the proposed office.
• Provide office details and location map.

Draft & Notarize LLC Agreement

• Translate into Arabic and notarize the agreement.
• All shareholders or attorneys must sign.

Submit Documents & Pay Fees

• Provide a tenancy contract and all required documents.
• Pay fees to receive the official Tourism License.

Tourism License Cost in Dubai

The cost of a tourism license in Dubai starts from around AED 7,500 and varies depending on factors such as the type of tourism activity, Mainland or Freezone setup, business size, required approvals, number of employee visas, and office expenses. Freezone packages that include the license, office space, and visas can help reduce overall costs.

Benefits of Getting a Tourism License in UAE

Obtaining a tourism license offers several advantages:

• Access to a booming market with millions of tourists every year.
• Flexibility to expand into multiple tourism activities.
• High profitability due to the UAE’s strong global brand as a tourist hub.
• Government support for tourism development, including Expo legacies and Vision 2031 initiatives.
• Free zone perks like 100% repatriation of profits and no corporate tax in certain jurisdictions.

Why Choose Professional Help?

While it is possible to apply for a tourism license independently, the process can be time-consuming and requires careful handling of legal requirements. Partnering with a reliable business setup consultant in UAE, like Flybiz, ensures a smooth and efficient application process.

Flybiz specializes in guiding entrepreneurs through every step of setting up a tourism business in Dubai. Their services include:

• Accurate Documentation: Preparing and submitting all required forms and approvals correctly to avoid delays or rejections.
• Expert Advice on Business Structure: Helping choose between Mainland and Freezone setups based on your business model, target market, and budget.
• Cost-Effective Solutions: Recommending packages that bundle licenses, visas, and office space to minimize unnecessary expenses.
• Faster Approvals: Streamlining communication with government authorities to secure quicker licensing.
• Ongoing Support: Offering guidance on renewals, compliance, and expansion to ensure long-term business stability.

With Flybiz, you save time and effort and avoid common mistakes. Their team helps you get your tourism license in UAE so your business can start smoothly, follow the rules, and grow successfully in Dubai’s competitive market.

Final Thoughts

Starting a tourism business in UAE requires a valid tourism license, which ensures legal compliance and access to a booming market. Partnering with experts like Flybiz simplifies the process, saves time, and sets your venture up for smooth operations and long-term success.