Thinking of starting a tour or travel agency in the UAE? This blog outlines the process, documents required, license types, and how AAAP Business Services helps you launch successfully in this thriving sector.
The United Arab Emirates is one of the world’s most popular travel destinations, attracting millions of tourists every year. With its modern infrastructure, rich cultural heritage, luxury experiences, and business-friendly environment, the UAE presents a golden opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to launch a travel or tourism business.
If you’re considering starting a travel agency or tourism-related service in the UAE, this guide will walk you through the opportunities, the setup process, and key legal requirements.
Why Start a Travel Business in the UAE?
- High Tourism Demand
With Dubai and Abu Dhabi ranking among the top global tourist hubs, there is year-round demand for travel experiences ranging from desert safaris and luxury shopping tours to cultural heritage visits. - Government Support
UAE’s vision to diversify its economy has led to significant investments in tourism infrastructure, making it easier for businesses to enter and thrive in this sector. - Business-Friendly Environment
From simplified licensing to 100% foreign ownership in certain zones, the UAE offers a welcoming ecosystem for new ventures. - Diverse Clientele
The multicultural population and the influx of tourists from all over the globe allow travel businesses to cater to a wide and diverse market.
Types of Travel Business Licenses
When setting up a travel business in the UAE, the type of license you need will depend on your services. The Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) in Dubai or the respective economic department in other emirates issues these licenses:
- Inbound Tour Operator License
For organizing tours within the UAE for foreign tourists. - Outbound Tour Operator License
For offering travel packages and tours outside the UAE for residents and citizens. - Travel Agency License
For booking flights, hotels, transportation, and offering general travel consultancy. - Online Travel Portal License
For operating web-based travel services and aggregators.
Steps to Start Your Travel Business in the UAE
- Choose the Business Activity and Jurisdiction
Decide whether you want to set up in the mainland, a free zone, or offshore. Each jurisdiction has its own benefits, like cost, ownership rules, and target audience. - Select the Legal Structure
This could be a sole proprietorship, LLC, or a branch of an existing company. - Apply for Initial Approval
Submit your application and get the initial nod from the relevant authority. - Prepare Required Documents
These typically include passport copies, visa and Emirates ID (for residents), tenancy contract (Ejari), and business plan. - Secure Office Space
A physical office is often mandatory for a travel agency license. - Get Approval from the Department of Tourism
Additional clearance from DET is needed for certain tourism activities. - Pay the License Fees and Collect Your Trade License
Once all approvals are in place, make the payment and receive your license.
Legal Requirements and Regulations
- Bank Guarantee: In some cases, a bank guarantee (ranging from AED 100,000 to AED 200,000) may be required for travel agency licenses.
- Qualified Manager: Authorities may require you to appoint a manager with a tourism qualification and experience.
- Insurance: Travel businesses must have professional indemnity and public liability insurance.
- Compliance: All activities must adhere to UAE’s tourism laws and advertising standards.
How AAAP Business Services Can Help
Starting a travel business in the UAE involves dealing with multiple authorities and paperwork—but that’s where AAAP Business Services makes all the difference.
We offer:
- End-to-end setup assistance for all types of travel and tourism licenses.
- Government liaison to handle DET, DED, and immigration approvals.
- Guidance on compliance, insurance, and workspace solutions.
- PRO services and document clearing to simplify the process.
- Post-setup support for renewals, banking, accounting, and digital marketing.
Final Thoughts
The travel industry in the UAE is booming, and there’s never been a better time to enter the market. Whether you’re passionate about showcasing the beauty of the Emirates or planning to connect UAE residents to global destinations, a travel business offers immense potential.
Let AAAP Business Services turn your vision into reality.
Reach out to us for a consultation and take the first step toward launching your travel business in the UAE.