Starting a travel agency in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) can be an exciting opportunity, especially with the country’s strong tourism sector. Dubai alone welcomes millions of tourists each year, and the demand for travel services is constantly growing. To gain a foothold in this growing market, it’s important to know the real cost of opening a travel agency license in the UAE.

This guide explains the key costs you should expect before setting up your business. From license fees to ongoing costs, we’ll cover the details clearly so you can plan your travel agency journey with confidence.

Activities Allowed for a Travel Agency License in Dubai

The first step in starting a tourism business is deciding what services you will provide. Knowing your activities will help you apply for the right type of license.

Here are some of the business activities you can run as a travel agent in Dubai:

• Selling flight tickets

• Issuing travel insurance

• Assisting with visa applications

• Arranging accommodation

• Selling holiday packages through a website

• Creating and promoting tour packages through various channels

Steps to Open a Travel Agency in Dubai (Step by Step Process)

Step 1: Before starting a travel agency in Dubai, you should know the types of travel agency licenses. Choosing the right location is also very important. This helps you decide whether your company should be located on the mainland or in a free zone.

Step 2: To obtain a business license, you need to arrange office space. DBS Group helps companies by providing office space or virtual offices, and they also help in obtaining licenses.

Step 3: Travel agencies work with various partners and suppliers to provide complete services. For this, you often require additional approval from the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).

Step 4: After receiving approval, the next step is to collect documents and apply for a license. To start a travel agency, you must first get a tourism license. The Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) issues licenses for mainland companies, while the Free zone Authority issues them in free zones. For a travel agency license, you also need permission from the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority.

Step 5: The final step is to obtain an employee visa and open a company bank account to handle financial matters. Travel agencies in Dubai mostly use two types of licenses - inbound and outbound. Depending on the services you provide, you can apply for one or both. This depends on the approval of your application and documents.

Documents Required to Start a Travel Agency

Here is a list of documents required to submit your trade license and obtain other necessary approvals:

• Filled application form

• Copies of valid passports for all partners or stakeholders

• Criminal record clearance certificates

• Economic and technical feasibility report for your travel business

• No Objection Certificate from the Civil Aviation Authority if you intend to issue airline tickets

• Educational certificates or proof of relevant work experience of the manager

Travel Agency License Cost in Dubai

Starting a travel agency in Dubai requires a trade license, and the costs depend on factors such as business size, service offerings and ownership structure. If a single person is the owner of the agency and applies for a single visa, the license usually starts from 35,000 AED.

The final amount varies with approvals, government fees, and other requirements. Below is a breakdown of typical costs:

• Initial Approval Fee: AED 120

• Trade Name Reservation: AED 620

• Dubai Tourism Authority Approval: AED 10,000

• Other Fees (Civil Aviation Approval, Tasheel Fee, etc.): Approximately AED 7,000+

You also need to include office rent, visa processing, and sometimes PRO services costs. If you choose a free zone setup, additional terms may apply.

The type of license (incoming or outbound) also makes a difference and you should follow all local rules. Working with installation advisors can help reduce delays and save extra costs.

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Key Ideas For Opening a Travel Agency in Dubai

Regulatory Regulations

Learn the regulations and license process that applies to travel agencies in Dubai. It is important to follow these rules for running your business evenly and avoiding legal problems.

Market Research

Study the market carefully. Look at travel trends, competitors, and customer groups. This research helps you shape your services and stand out in Dubai’s competitive travel industry.

Supplier Partnerships

Work with reliable airlines, hotels, transport providers and tour operators. Good relationships with suppliers give you better rates and exclusive offers, which add value to your customers.

Use of Technology

Adopt a digital tool to make your operation easier and improve customer experiences. Using the latest technology helps you remain competitive in today's fast changing travel market.

Customer Care

Focus on building strong customer relationships. Offer personal service, respond quickly, and maintain clear communication. Happy clients are more likely to return and recommend your agency.

Simple Processes in Travel Agency Save Both Time And Money

Above key steps can help you build a strong travel agency business. But these steps often involve heavy paperwork and many hidden challenges.

Are you making the wrong move? Starting your own business is now easier than ever. DBS Business Setup Group takes care of everything for you, so you can focus on growing your dream.

For details on setting up your company in the UAE mainland or free zones, call us on +971 54 332 2846 or WhatsApp us on +971 54 332 2846. You can also email us at sales@aedbs.com.

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