26/11/24

How to Start a Travel and Tourism Business in Dubai, UAE in 2024

Dubai is one of the most famous cities in the world where millionaires and businesses reside. You can find successful businesses such as travel and tourism businesses.

Many of these companies have been established by Freemont Group, a trusted partner with over 20 years of experience and experts who know the business well. If you want to establish your travel or tourism company in Dubai and you want to learn more, this is the right article for you!

This article covers the reasons to start such a business, the steps to set it up, the types of licenses available, the required documents, the benefits, and the support you will need throughout the process.

1. Why Start a Travel and Tourism Business in Dubai?

Dubai is one of the fastest-growing businesses industries in the world! Every year millions of tourists travel there to experience this beautiful and luxurious place. In addition, the UAE’s government actively supports the tourism sector, offering 100% foreign ownership, tax benefits, and simplified licensing processes.

Key Reasons to Start a Tourism Business:

High-spending tourists

Many tourists who visit Dubai are famous influencers, rich entrepreneurs, and high-profile celebrities, drawn by the city’s luxurious lifestyle and iconic landmarks.

Event Tourism

Dubai hosts international conferences, exhibitions, and sports events that boost the tourism industry.

Global Connectivity

With Dubai International Airport being one of the busiest in the world, the city is a hub for international travel and transit.

Luxury and Innovation

Known for iconic attractions like the Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, and luxury resorts, Dubai continues to invest in unique, record-breaking projects that draw more visitors.

Opportunity Zone

Dubai offers a business-friendly environment that caters to entrepreneurs and investors with flexible options to establish their companies in either the mainland or one of its numerous free zones.

Ease of Doing Business

Transparent regulations and one-stop business setup services make it simpler to establish and operate a company.

2. What are the steps to start a travel business in Dubai?

To start a travel business in Dubai you must follow these steps to build a successful tourism company in the UAE and not get lost in the process.
Here is what you need to know.

2.1. Choose Your Business Structure

Decide between a mainland or free zone setup, depending on your target audience and tax preferences.

Setting up a travel agency in Dubai mainland

Mainland is better for businesses targeting UAE residents and offices can provide wider market access while setups provide more flexibility.

Setting up a travel agency in Dubai free zones

Free zones are suited for international trade and can often offer cost-effective setups and may have restrictions on office location and visa quotas.

2.2 Register Your Trade Name

Ensure it meets Dubai’s naming conventions and is unique. This process is regulated by the Department of Economic Development (DED) and aims to maintain professionalism, prevent duplications, and avoid conflicts. If you want to ensure that your company’s name is unique you can use DED’s online portal to check for existing names that might conflict with your choice.

2.3 Obtain a License

Dubai tourism license types

Before you obtain a license, you must know that there are three types of licenses. Depending on your services, you will apply for an Inbound, Outbound, or Travel Agency license with the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM).

2.3.1 Inbound and outbound tourism license Dubai

Inbound Tour Operator License

The Inbound Tour Operator License is for organizing tours within Dubai or the UAE. The activities that you can offer are guided city tours, desert safaris, cultural experiences, and adventure activities tailored to tourists visiting Dubai. The target audience for this are tourists arriving in Dubai who seek local exploration.

Outbound Tour Operator License

The Outbound Tour Operator License is for facilitating travel outside Dubai for residents. The activities that you can offer are creating and selling international holiday packages, flight bookings, hotel reservations, and guided tours abroad. The target audience for this are UAE residents or businesses looking for international travel solutions.

2.3.2 Travel Agent License

The Travel Agent License is for offering ticketing, reservations, and packages. This is a general license for businesses focused on ticketing, booking services, and arranging travel packages. The activities that you can offer are airline ticket sales, hotel and transport reservations, and comprehensive travel arrangements (both domestic and international). The target audience for this are individuals and companies looking for travel and logistics assistance.

2.4 Rent Office Space

This step is mandatory for license approval, with options in Dubai’s free zones or mainland.

2.5 Complete Visa and Bank Formalities

Apply for residency visas and open a corporate bank account.

3. How to get a travel license in UAE?

When you decide which license you will need for your company you will have to complete these documents.

Documents needed for tourism license in Dubai

Application form of tourism license
Trade name registration.
Passport and visa copies of owners.
Work qualification certification
Business plan highlighting economic and technical feasibility
Proof of a clean criminal record.
NOC of Civil Aviation Authority

4. Benefits of tourism business in UAE

There are many benefits to setting up a travel company in Dubai. Businesses gain access to high-spending tourists, tax-free incentives, and opportunities for partnerships within the thriving tourism ecosystem. Operating legally also enhances credibility and fosters client trust.

Benefits of Establishing a Tourism Business

Government Support: Clear guidelines and incentives for tourism businesses.
Profitability: High tourist spending on luxury and leisure activities.
Diverse Clientele: Opportunities to serve global tourists, business travelers, and residents.
Networking: Access to industry events and collaborations.

5. Support you will need in the process

Everyone knows that establishing a tourism company, whether locally or globally, becomes much easier with a reliable partner by your side. A partner who takes care of every detail and ensures a smooth, hassle-free setup in the vibrant business district of Dubai. This partner is Freemont Group, with over 20 years of experience.

At Freemont Oneworld Group, we are committed to delivering a professional approach tailored to our clients’ specific needs. Our clients benefit from personalized solutions designed to align with their goals and targets. Trust our expertise to transform your business vision into reality and position your tourism company for success in Dubai’s thriving market.