How to Start a Travel Agency in Dubai
A Complete Guide to Setup, Costs, and Licenses
Opening a travel agency in Dubai is an exciting opportunity, as the city attracts millions of tourists annually and serves as a business hub in the Middle East. If you’re passionate about venturing into the travel and tourism industry, here’s a guide on how to open a travel agency in Dubai.
Steps to Open a Travel Agency in Dubai:
Determine the Type of Travel Agency
- Decide whether you’ll focus on inbound tourism (handling tours within Dubai), outbound tourism (organizing tours outside Dubai), or operate as a general travel agent (issuing tickets and organizing events).
Choose Your Company Name
- Select a business name that aligns with the nature of your services and start the registration process, ensuring the name adheres to Dubai’s naming conventions.
Apply for a Tourism License
- A business license is mandatory, and you’ll need a tourism license specific to your travel-related activities. The tourism license is issued by the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM).
Rent Office Space
- Secure office space in Dubai and have the lease agreement attested by the Dubai Land Department.
Register with Immigration and Labor Departments
- After obtaining your business license, register with the immigration and labor departments to acquire visas for investors, partners, and employees.
Obtain Employee Visas
- Apply for visas at least 30 days before your employees are expected to arrive in Dubai.
Open a Corporate Bank Account
- Set up a corporate bank account to handle your financial transactions and business activities.
Costs of a Travel Agency License in Dubai
The cost of obtaining a travel agency license can vary depending on the business structure and the number of owners. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated fees:
| Fee Types | Amount in AED |
|---|---|
| Initial Approval Fees | 120 |
| Trade Name Reservation Fees | 620 |
| Tasheel Fees for Initial Approval | 345 |
| Local Sponsor Agent Fees | 350 |
| Estimated License Cost with Foreign Trade Name | 8960 |
| Approval from Dubai Tourism Authority Fees | 10000 |
| Dubai Civil Aviation Approval Fees | 6800 |
| Company Immigration Card Fees | 750 |
| Local Service Agent & PRO Services | 7000 |
| Total Estimated Cost | 34,945 AED |
These costs are based on a single-owner agency without an investor visa.
Types of Tourism Licenses in Dubai:
- Travel Agent License: Allows you to issue tickets and act as an intermediary for travel-related services.
- Inbound Tourism License: Permits organizing tours and activities for tourists visiting Dubai.
- Outbound Tourism License: Allows the organization of travel and tours outside Dubai for Dubai-based clients.
Requirements for Opening a Travel Agency:
- Documents Needed:
- Passport copies of investors (with resident/visit visas)
- Several business name options for reservation
- Office lease agreement
- Manager’s attested degree certificate
- Indemnity insurance policy
- Travel agent appointment contract
- NOC from Civil Aviation Authority
- Good conduct certificate from the police
Advantages of Opening a Travel Agency in Dubai:
- Contribution to UAE’s GDP: The tourism industry contributes around 10% to the UAE’s GDP, with steady growth expected in the future.
- Tourism Growth: Dubai welcomes tourists from over 200 countries every year, thanks to its iconic landmarks and luxury accommodations.
- Tax-Free Environment: Visitors enjoy tax-free luxury, which makes Dubai a highly attractive destination for tourists.
Why Tycoon Documents?
Working with a trusted business setup consultancy like Tycoon Documents can streamline the process of opening your travel agency. Tycoon Documents provides expert guidance, helping you navigate legal, financial, and administrative processes with ease.
By following these steps and working with experienced consultants, you can establish a thriving travel agency in Dubai’s ever-growing tourism sector.