Favourable climate, wonderful coast, architectural monuments, eye-catching buildings, high standard of living makes Dubai one of the Top 10 tourism destinations in the world and attracts the business of travel agency. Especially with the announcement of World Expo 2020, there is a boost in the tourism sector.

So, let’s have a look at how as an individual or company, you can commence a travel agency in the UAE.

Steps on How to Open a Travel Agency in UAE

• Obtaining a License –

The primary step is to obtain a license in order to operate a travel agency in UAE. There are largely three types of license –

1. Inbound Tour Operator – offers tour packages within UAE and services relating to VISA matters, even includes exhibitions and conferences.
2. Outbound Tour Operator – offers tour packages and vacations outside Emirates, even includes exhibitions and conferences.
3. Travel Agent – offers selling of air tickets, visa support services, accommodation to the tourist, transport services and tours.

• Documents Required–

Following documents are required to obtain a license as an inbound and outbound tour operator-

1. A filled application form provided by the authorities
2. Copy of valid passports of the applicants
3. Certificate of professional qualification/work experience certificate of the manager
4. Clean criminal record certificate of the owner/certificate of good conduct of the owner
5. Study report of the economic and technical feasibility of the project
6. No objection letter issued by the Civil Aviation Authority

• Document Checklist –

1. Initial approval fee
2. Clearance certificate from Dubai Police
3. Insurance policies to cover all the activities
4. Request approval of trade name of the company
5. Lease contract of the office from where the company will operate (1 month contract). Office space should be atleast 30 sq.meter for each activity.

Apart from the above, individuals and companies should consider the following factors –

• While opening a travel agency in Dubai in the most common cases, a limited liability partnership is created i.e. 49% shares are owned by the foreign citizen while 51% must be bought by the local sponsor.
• A bank assurance between AED 100,000 to AED 200,000 is mandatory for obtaining a license.
• A manager of the company must have 3 years experience certificate if he holds a bachelor degree or Certificate in Travel and Tourism) and 5 years experience certificate if manager holds secondary certificate.
• If a license is to be obtained as a travel agent, one add-on document i.e. an approval on behalf of the Department of Civil Aviation of the Emirate is required.

Travel agency business is a blooming opportunity in Dubai. The registration process can get tedious and consume a lot of time. Therefore it is advised to seek expertise of a business consultant in order to save your valuable time.

Get in touch with us at IMC Group, if you are looking to set up your travel agency in Dubai. With decades of experience in establishing the dream companies of numerous business owners in Dubai, you can take a back seat while we help you set up the company.

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