How to Organize Events with an Event Management License in Dubai

Author: Ayushi Doegar
Published: January 19, 2022

Overview

Starting an event management business in Dubai, UAE is a lucrative opportunity, particularly with Expo 2020 bringing large crowds from across the world. The event management market is headed towards growth, making this an ideal time to enter the industry.

What is an Event Management Company?

An event management company is a business opportunity suited for those who wish to engage in planning and managing corporate and other official events. The scope of event management covers:

Event production
Event promotion
Hospitality management
Corporate and official event planning

Licensing Requirements

A trade license is a mandatory document required by all entrepreneurs who wish to start businesses in the UAE. It serves as a legal permit that enables businesses to conduct operations legally within the borders of the UAE.

The government has established a list of permissible and non-permissible activities for those acquiring an event management license.

Permissible Activities

With an event management license, businesses are authorized to conduct the following activities:

The organization and set-up of gala events, conventions, award ceremonies, product launches, business conferences, and other business-related economic activities
The reservation of hotels for events mentioned in point 1
The sale of tickets for events mentioned in point 1

Non-Permissible Activities

The following activities are NOT permitted under an event management license:

General trading activities that include the import and export of products
The organization and sponsorship of events not approved by the relevant authorities
Venue management
Conducting civil or construction related activities like building stages
Training activities

Business Advantages

Starting an event business is a beneficial venture worth investing in, mainly due to:

Low initial setup costs compared to other business set-ups engaged in activities other than event management
Growing market opportunity with international events
Diverse scope of permissible activities

Running a Business with an Event Management License

General Policies and Regulations

Once you've received your license and understand the scope of activities, you must comply with the following rules:

1. Public Information Requirements

Any tickets, websites, posters, and other paraphernalia associated with the promotion and relay of information of the event must clearly state general public information like safety guidelines.

2. Ticket Sales and Promotion Regulation

Mainland UAE Events: The sale of tickets and promotion of events must be regulated under the relevant government authority of the emirate where the event is taking place
Free Zone Events: If the event is being conducted in a free zone, ticket and promotion related regulation falls under the relevant free zone authority
International Events: The sale of tickets and promotion of events outside the UAE are subject to international rules

3. Cancellation and Refund Policy

In case of event withdrawal or cancellation, the business is held responsible for refunds and other event-related charges.

Understanding Event Scope

This line of business has specific concerns relating to what is considered an event under its scope, which determines the type of economic activity your business can engage in within the event management industry.

Getting Started with SPC Free Zone

Starting an event management business in the UAE can seem daunting, with licensing requirements and permissible activities amongst other regulations that may seem hard to understand.

At SPC Free Zone, expert consultants break down the process involved in starting your own establishment, making your dream business setup in the UAE a reality.

Contact Information:
Phone: 800 SPC FZ