Tourism License

Yes, but selling airline tickets directly requires additional IATA (International Air Transport Association) accreditation beyond the basic Tourism License. IATA approval has specific financial requirements including higher security deposits and bank guarantees. Alternatively, you can operate as a non-IATA agency working through consolidators while establishing your business. We provide guidance on both approaches and assist with the IATA application process if desired.

While tourism experience is beneficial, it’s not a strict requirement for all license types. However, certain specialized tourism activities (like desert safaris or adventure tourism) may require proof of experience or qualifications for safety reasons. For travel agencies seeking IATA accreditation, industry experience is typically necessary. Our team helps structure your application to highlight relevant experience or brings in qualified tourism professionals as partners if needed.

The standard processing time ranges from 10-20 business days depending on the jurisdiction and specific tourism activities. Free Zone licenses typically process faster (10-15 days) while Mainland licenses may take 15-20 days due to additional tourism authority approvals. Our expedited service can reduce these timeframes by up to 30%. Certain specialized tourism activities requiring additional security clearances may take slightly longer.

A Tourism License covers a wide range of activities including travel agency services, tour operations, destination management, MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) services, holiday home rentals, desert safaris, yacht charters, adventure tourism, and tourist transportation. Each activity category may have specific sub-classifications with different requirements. During our consultation, we help you select the precise activity codes that align with your business model.

The total investment ranges from AED 25,000-70,000 depending on jurisdiction and tourism business type. Free Zone packages typically start from AED 25,000-40,000 including license, registration, and workspace. Mainland licenses generally range from AED 35,000-70,000 including initial approval fees, license issuance, and tourism authority registrations. Additional costs include tourism security deposits (AED 10,000-100,000 depending on activities), office space, and visa processing.

Dubai offers specialized banking services for tourism companies, with features like multi-currency accounts, payment gateway integration for online bookings, and corporate credit facilities for business-to-business transactions. Once your Tourism License is issued, we facilitate introductions to banking partners experienced with tourism businesses. The account opening process typically takes 2-4 weeks, with additional features like merchant accounts for credit card processing requiring supplementary documentation.

Tourism businesses must maintain a security deposit with Dubai Tourism (amount varies by activity type), obtain specific liability insurance, and adhere to strict customer protection regulations. Tour operators need approved safety protocols, while travel agencies making international bookings typically require IATA certification. Tourism staff often need Dubai Tourism ID cards, and marketing materials must follow specific content guidelines. We guide you through all these specialized requirements.

 A Mainland Tourism License allows unrestricted operations throughout Dubai and the UAE, direct business with government entities, and full access to the local market without intermediaries. Free Zone licenses offer benefits like 100% foreign ownership, simplified processes, and tax advantages but may have limitations on directly conducting business in the mainland. The optimal choice depends on your target market and business model.