Tourism License in Dubai: Get your license with Connect Zone

Tourism License in Dubai.

In recent years, the tourism sector in the United Arab Emirates has not stopped growing. Whether for pleasure or business, every year thousands of people decide to visit the country to see the beautiful landscapes and skyscrapers and to enjoy the many opportunities that the UAE offers, such as visas for diverse purposes. In this case, we will talk about the Tourism License in Dubai.

In this article, you will learn what a Tourism License is, what steps you must follow to obtain one, how much is the Travel and Tourism License Cost in Dubai, how we can help you obtain one, and much more.

  1. What is a Tourism License?
  2. Different types of Tourism Licenses
  3. Step by step to obtain a Dubai Tourism License
  4. What are the required documents to apply for a Tourism License?
  5. Which activities fall under the Tourism License?
  6. Tourism License Fee in Dubai
  7. Who can apply for a Dubai Tourism License?
  8. Benefits of obtaining a Tourism License
  9. How can we help you get a Tourism License in Dubai?

1. What is a Tourism License?

The Tourism License in Dubai is an official document that allows companies to carry out activities belonging to the Travel and Tourism sector in Dubai. It is a legal requirement, imposed by the authorities of the UAE to support and regulate the tourism sector.

This sector has shown a rapid growth, which is why the demand for this type of license increases every year.

2. Different types of Tourism Licenses

To start a tourism business, you need a license that suits your needs. Depending on the activity of your company, you can choose between the following Tourism Licenses:

2.1 Dubai Tourism License for an Outbound Tour Operator

This license allows companies to organize outbound trips. This Visa is extremely helpful for those businesses that work outside and inside the UAE in the travel and tourism sector.

The outbound tour service focuses on assisting people visiting foreign countries from the United Arab Emirates.

2.2 Tourism License for an Inbound Tour Operator

This type of license is responsible for getting license holders to organize inbound trips for foreigners. Tourism Licenses also allow owners to hold global conferences and exhibitions.

2.3 Tourism License for a Travel Agent

This license is responsible for creating a service platform for those investors who can open a Travel Agency. Those entrepreneurs who have this license can sell air tickets to visit foreign countries. Also, it can offer visitor visas to their customers.

2.4 Tourism License for a Tour Guide

A tour guide is a professional in the tourism sector who will be in charge of accompanying foreign visitors to points of interest or important areas of the United Arab Emirates. Anyone interested in becoming a professional Tour Guide must have a thorough knowledge of the history and culture of the UAE, as well as the tourist spots.

Some of the aspects that you must know to acquire a Tourism License for a Tour Guide are the following:

  • Applicants to be a Tour Guide must participate in the Tour Guide Award Program and pass it.
  • The validity of the Tourism License for a Tour Guide is one year.
  • The Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) gives Tour Guides a Tour Guide License Badge. This badge is mandatory if you want to operate legally in Dubai.
  • This license must be renewed annually, and renewal can only take place if the Tourist Guide participates in the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing annual refresher program.
  • If for any reason, the license is not renewed for two years in a row, the Tour Guide will be sanctioned by the DTCM and will not be able to operate legally in the United Arab Emirates.

3. Step by Step to obtain a Tourism License in Dubai

There are several steps to take and various approvals to obtain (especially from the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing) if you want to acquire a Dubai Tourism License.

The steps you must follow are the following:

3.1 Select whether you want a Mainland or a Free Zone License

Firstly, before starting the process of forming your company, you need to be clear about what type of company you want to create. In this way, the process of choosing which type of license best suits the essence of your company is facilitated.

You can choose between a Free Zone License or a Mainland License.

If you decide to start a Mainland Company formation, you will be able to make commercial agreements with the government of the United Arab Emirates and with other companies. Also, you will be able to offer your goods and services in the local Dubai market.

However, if on the contrary, you prefer to start a company in a Free Zone of the United Arab Emirates, you can enjoy certain benefits, such as no currency restrictions, 0% tax rate, repatriation of 100% profits, full custom tax exemptions, 100% ownership, among others.

Please note that while your Free Zone Company cannot do business with the local Dubai market, there are options you can explore in the future to expand your business and be able to trade in that market.

Additionally, it is important to realize that these types of decisions is of vital importance for the future. For this reason, it is advisable to hire experts in company formation, such as Connect Zone, to receive valuable advice.

3.2 Define a Business Activity

After selecting the economic jurisdiction in which your company is going to be, the next step is to choose what activity you are going to do.

There are various categories within the Tourism License and it is extremely important that the productive activity you choose aligns with one of these categories.

3.3 Select a Company Name

The government of the UAE is quite strict when it comes to naming the companies that operate on its territory. For this reason, you must know the regulations on this subject to avoid stumbling blocks in the process of acquiring your license.

In essence, you must avoid using foul language that may offend the UAE citizen and you cannot use a name that another recognized organization has in use.

If you plan to name your company after yourself, keep in mind that you cannot abbreviate your name. For example, Daniel Levy Travel is acceptable, however, D, Levy Travel is not.

Last but not least, make sure that the name you choose is not previously registered because if it is, you will not be able to use it either.

3.4 Initial Approval

Once you have chosen the name of your company, the next thing is to obtain initial approval from the Department of Economic Development (DED) of the economic jurisdiction where your company is established.

To obtain approval, you must fill out a form where you will mention certain personal information and information about your company.

Then, all shareholders must sign it and submit it to the DED along with the necessary documents.

3.5 Site Inspection

After the DED approves your application, you must submit a form for them to perform the site inspection.

Remember to give the detailed information of the place where your company’s offices are (you can attach the location map). Officials from the Department of Economic Development will visit your office to carry out the pertinent inspection before issuing your license.

3.6 Limited Liability Company (LLC) Contract

To continue with the process, you must make the Limited Liability Company Contract. It must be duly translated and certified by a public notary.

Once the contract is ready, all partners must sign it in court.

Also, keep in mind that if the contract is already written in Arabic, a translation will not be necessary.

3.7 Submit the Required Documents

After collecting all the documents, you must deliver them to the DED, pay all the Tourism License Fee in Dubai and collect your license.

In addition to the documents already mentioned, you may need to prepare a Tenancy Contract to deliver to the Department of Economic Development.

4. What are the required documents to apply for a Dubai Tourism License?

To complete the application process, you must submit the following documents to the Department of Economic Development.

  • Valid copy of the applicant passport
  • DED form duly filled out
  • No Objection Letter (NOC) granted by the Civil Aviation Authority
  • Study report of the technical and economic feasibility of the project

5.  Which activities fall under the Tourism License?

Some of the activities that you can find within this type of license are the following:

5.1 Organizing Excursions

You can assume the role of a contractor and offer travel agency activities throughout the UAE. In the same way, you can offer groups and individual itineraries independently or as a contractor.

5.2 Business and Corporate Tourism

This service includes a wide variety of activities. For example, workshops, training sessions, meetings, incentive trips, promotional events, corporate parties, and organizing business trips.

5.3 Renting Residential Spaces

The rental of spaces such as apartments, guest houses, villas, and individual rooms is a good way to generate income in the tourism sector.

5.4 Tour Operator Activities

You can organize travel programs outside the country, either independently or by using a travel agent. Also, you can prepare visitor visas, organize local tours, accommodation and transport.

5.5 Tourism Agency

This service allows you to sell airline tickets, programs organized by tour operators, and other related services, such as the schedule of tours and the application of Visas.

6. Tourism License Fee in Dubai

The Travel and Tourism License Cost in Dubai is directly related to the activity and size of your company. However, the general price of this license is around AED 20,000.

To promote and support the tourism sector in the United Arab Emirates, the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing announced in 2018 the cancellation of one of the largest requirements.

As of that year, it is no longer necessary to have a bank guarantee of AED 100,000 – AED 200,000 for each operation you carry out as a Travel Agent, outbound tour operator, and inbound tour operator. This significantly reduces the initial investment and expense of forming a company and obtaining a Tourism License.

Also, the 300-square-foot minimum has been overturned too.

Certain documents such as the educational certificates and the experience letters have also been removed, greatly facilitating the application process for this license.

7. Who can apply for a Tourism License in Dubai?

Some individuals and companies that need a Tourism License to operate legally are the following:

  • Car rental firms
  • Travel agents
  • Hotels
  • Restaurants
  • Travel firms

Once the process of applying for your license is completed and you already have your license in your hands, you can perform the following tasks:

  • Car rental services
  • Sell tourism packages via online or offline
  • Assistance services concerning the application of visas
  • You can sell flight, railway and bus tickets to tourist
  • Accommodation and transport services

8. Benefits of obtaining a Dubai Tourism License

Having a Tourism License in Dubai opens many doors for you, especially if you decide to dedicate yourself entirely to the tourism sector.

Some of the benefits are as follows:

  • You can open a corporate and personal bank account
  • You can plan shows, business exhibitions, and global conferences.
  • Due to the newly implemented regulations, the initial Travel and Tourism License Cost in Dubai has been reduced.
  • You can offer guided tours, transport services, accommodation, etc.
  • With a single license you can carry out outbound tour operator, travel agent, and inbound tour operator activities without any extra cost or bank guarantees.
  • You can make trips outside and inside the country, thus helping to empower the company’s reputation.

9.  How can we help you get a Tourism License in Dubai?

The United Arab Emirates has positioned itself as one of the most visited countries in the world, this was the result of the country’s innovation, good public policy decisions, and attractive incentives that have motivated hundreds of foreigners to invest in the country.

To have a company dedicated to the tourism sector, it is necessary to go through the entire process of obtaining a Tourism License, and this is where our agency is at your service.

With more than 22 years of experience, Connect Zone is the business setup agency you need to accompany and guide you in the process of setting up your company. When it comes to the tourism sector, we can attend to any need you may have, we will help you with opening bank accounts, we will carry out the Visa application process and we will be the link between your interests and the corresponding government entities.

Do you want to know more about our visa services? You can write us an email at contact@connectzone.ae where one of our representatives will answer all your questions.

Lastly, if you want to work with us, send your application through thetalentpoint.com. You can also submit it to contact@thetalentpoint.com. Your information is safe, as we will not share or store it.

Apply for a UAE Residence Visa with Connect Zone

UAE residence visa

In addition to being the destination for many entrepreneurs to start a new business, the United Arab Emirates has been characterized, in recent years, as an attractive country to live in. Thousands of people decide to start a new life surrounded by tall skyscrapers, beautiful beaches, and an avant-garde structure. To achieve this, the application for a UAE residence visa is necessary.

In this article, you will find information about the UAE residence visa, who can opt for one, what are the requirements to apply for it, what is the cost of this type of visa, and how we can help you obtain it.

  1. What is a residence visa?
  2. Types of residence visas in the UAE
  3. Who is eligible for UAE residency?
  4. How to get a residence visa in the Emirates?
  5. What are the requirements to apply for a residence visa?
  6. The cost of a residence visa in the UAE
  7. Benefits of being a resident in the Emirates
  8. How to renew your UAE residence visa?
  9. Differences between the entry permit and a residence visa
  10. How can we help you apply for a UAE residence visa?

1. What is a residence visa?

A residence visa in the UAE is a permit issued by the government of the United Arab Emirates that allows foreigners to live and work in the country. This permit can be valid for 2, 3, and even 10 years, and a person can renew it as many times as they need.

Many foreign families live in the Emirates for many years by simply renewing their visas at the appropriate time. Permanent stay does not exist in this country, being a resident in the UAE means having a stamp in your passport and living in the country.

2. Types of residence visas in the UAE

The type of visa you are going to apply for is directly related to the purpose of your trip. For example:

2.1 Work visa

This type of visa is aimed at those people who found work in the United Arab Emirates and who obtained the work permit.

2.2 Family visa

Close relatives of citizens or foreigners who reside there can apply for this visa.

2.3 Student visa

Foreigners who have applied and have been accepted in some of the institutions of the UAE may opt for this type of visa.

2.4 Investment visa

People who make a substantial investment in the UAE can opt for this type of visa. This visa has a longer duration than the other residence visas (Up to ten years)

2.5 Retirement visa

Elderly foreigners who want to return to the United Arab Emirates and have the financial support to do so can apply for this visa.

3. Who is eligible for UAE residency?

Foreigners can apply for a residence visa if they are:

3.1 Employed by a company

In this situation, the company that hired the person will act as their sponsor and apply for a residence visa while this person is within the UAE.

3.2 Employed by the government sector

The corresponding government entity will be in charge of acting as a sponsor and applying for the residence visa.

3.3 Owners of a property in the UAE

Those who own property in the United Arab Emirates are eligible for a residence visa, as well as a property visa. In this case, this visa will be sponsored under the property they own.

3.4 University students sponsored

Students who carry out their studies in an Institute of the United Arab Emirates can apply for this visa. In this case, the university will be in charge of being the sponsor and requesting the visa under the name of the institution.

3.5 Sponsored dependents

Dependents that are sponsored by:

  • A business owner/investor in the UAE
  • A property owner in the UAE
  • Someone who has found a job in the UAE

You must remember that dependents include parents, children, close relatives, and maids. Also, a residence visa is issued when the foreigner has decided to enter the country through an entry permit, a long or a short-term tourist or visit visa.

4. How to get a residence visa in the Emirates?

In order to apply for a residence visa, you must follow the following steps:

4.1 Legalization of documents

Firstly, to complete the application process for a UAE residence visa you will need the attestation of the university certificate at the embassy of the United Arab Emirates in the country of residence. This process can take from 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the country.

4.2 Entry permit

Once you have made the application with the authorities for your entry permit, they will deliver it to you in a period of 6 to 9 business days. In some cases, the authorities select some applications for extra review, this can make the process longer.

After the application, the authorities can approve or deny the entry permit, depending on the deduction of the immigration department.

4.3 Status change

When the entry permit is approved, the foreign person is already eligible to enter the United Arab Emirates. This permit is valid for all internal applicants who do not need to leave the country.

The validity of the entry permit is 60 days after the date of issuance. Also, the entrance to the country must be registered in this period and at any of the country’s entry points. Another way to perform this step is to leave the country and enter again using the issued entry permit.

4.4 Medical examination

All foreigners over 18 years of age must undergo medical check-ups before entering the country, as part of the UAE’s immigration regulations. The medical examination includes a chest X-ray for tuberculosis screening, a blood test for HIV/AIDS, etc. The process of this medical report can take from 1 to 4 business days.

4.5 Emirates ID registration and biometrics

Every person over 15 years of age must attend a biometric appointment, which includes the following:

  • A digital signature
  • Fingerprinting
  • A photograph at an approved government center.

In case of renewing an Emirates ID, the biometric process will not be necessary. Generally, the delivery time of the ID is 14 business days.  However, this will depend on the approval of your residence and the issuance of the visa.

4.6 Visa stamping

After completing the medical check-up, if the report is normal, the residence permit will be approved by the immigration authorities and the UAE residence visa will be stamped on your passport. This process usually takes 5 to 7 days.

4.7 Receiving Emirates ID Card

After approval of your visa by government authorities, the Emirates ID will be processed. The EID authorities issue the ID when they receive confirmation from the Immigration department. In general, the total time for this process is 7 business days.

5. What are the requirements to apply for a residence visa?

When you are applying for a new residence visa in the UAE, you must submit the following documents:

  • Your original passport
  • Entry permit
  • The UAE visa application received either online or via the nearest typing center
  • Two photos the size of your passport, as stated in the visa application regulations in the UAE
  • For a work wisa, the company must include a copy of the employment contract and copies of the valid firm card and valid trade license.
  • Proof of your UAE medical insurance plan
  • For family visas, proof of family ties must be included. For example, marriage certificates or birth certificates.

6. The cost of a residence visa in the UAE

The cost of a residence visa in the UAE will depend on its validity period. You can view some prices in the following list:

  • Investor visa: This 3-year residence visa in Dubai costs AED 2,478 per year.
  • Family visa (For the family of a partner): This 3 years residence visa in Dubai costs AED 2,478 per year.
  • Family visa (For the family of an employee): This visa has a validity period of 2 years and has a cost of AED 3,727.
  • Working visa: This visa has a validity period of 2 years and has a cost of AED 3,727.

7. Benefits of being a resident in the Emirates

By becoming a legitimate resident of the United Arab Emirates, you can enjoy the following benefits:

  • Access government health services and health insurance
  • Access financial facilities
  • Open a bank account
  • Apply for a driving license
  • Travel visa-free to certain destinations
  • Work and invest
  • Register your children in government schools

8. How to renew your UAE residence visa?

To renew your visa, your sponsor must do so within 30 days before the expiration date. However, your sponsor can renew after the expiration date, as long as it is within the UAE residence visa’s expiry grace period.

The process of renewing a visa is very similar to the process of acquiring one for the first time. Your sponsor must apply for a new Visa for you at the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in the corresponding Emirate.

8.1 UAE Residence visa: Expiry grace period

The authorities of the United Arab Emirates offer an extension of time when your UAE residence visa expires, this time is 30 days, which means that even if your visa expired you can stay in the country for one more month.

However, if at the end of 30 days you have not renewed your visa, you must leave the country and enter again with an entry permit. If you stay longer, you will receive a fine for each extra day.

9. Differences between the entry permit and a residence visa

The difference between an entry permit and a UAE residence visa lies in the following aspects:

  • The entry permit allows foreigners to enter the country for a specific period (usually three months).
  • This permit goes in accordance with the purpose of your trip, for example, an entry permit for tourism is a UAE tourist visa.
  • Your sponsor must make sure to apply for your entry permit before you enter the United Arab Emirates.
  • Once you have entered the country, then your sponsor will be able to apply for your residence visa.

In addition to this, some nationalities do not need an entry permit or can obtain one upon arrival in the country.

The new residence visa in the UAE allows foreigners to reside in the country for a longer period. Once you enter the country, your sponsor must complete the application process for a residence visa with the corresponding government entities.

10. How can we help you apply for a UAE residence visa?

The United Arab Emirates, over the years, has become the destination that receives thousands of people annually, looking for a change in their lives. These changes always bring with them procedures, paperwork, and a lot of documentation, and this is where Connect Zone can be your best ally.

In our agency, you will find trusted advisors who will accompany you every step of the way to obtain your UAE residence visa, we can offer you our services through your visa application, and also we can help you open an account in the bank of your choice.

Would you like to learn more? You can contact us by writing an email to info@connectzone.ae where you will speak with one of our representatives, who will gladly answer all your questions.

Lastly, if you are interested in applying for a job in our agency, you can send us your CV through thetalentpoint.com or at the following email address: contact@thetalentpoint.com.