How to Start a Tourism Company in the UAE?
Author: Ayushi Doegar
Published: July 22, 2022
Source: SPC Free Zone
Overview
The UAE is home to some of the world's most jaw-dropping architecture, record-breaking restaurants and beautiful beaches, making it a fast-growing tourism hotspot. The tourism sector makes a significant contribution to the national economy, accounting for over 12.1% of the UAE's GDP and supporting more than 300,000 jobs directly.
This comprehensive guide covers how to start a tourism company in the UAE, including:
- Tourism license UAE benefits
- Steps to getting a UAE tourism license
- Documents required to open a tourism company in the UAE
- Why choose SPC Free Zone
What is a Tourism License in the UAE?
A tourism license is a business license required to start a tourism company in the UAE. This license covers activities such as:
- Selling tourism packages
- Selling travel insurance
- Supporting tourism visa services
- Selling transportation tickets
Types of Tourism Licenses
The type of tourism license differs slightly depending on your business model:
- Outbound tour operator
- Inbound tour operator
- Travel agent
Each license type has specific benefits, such as the advantage of conducting international meetings.
Benefits of Starting a Tourism Business in the UAE
1. Thriving Tourism Industry
The UAE is a leading tourism destination in the GCC and wider Arab world, with impressive statistics:
- Global ranking: Among the top 25 countries for tourism in the world
- Tourist spending (2019): Over AED 143.1 billion from international tourists
- Sharjah growth: Year-on-year growth of 17% in overnight visitors
- Sharjah Tourism Vision 2021: Aims to attract more than 10 million tourists
- Dubai's goal: To become the first choice for business travellers
2. High Quality of Life
The UAE is one of the most advanced countries in the world for infrastructure. Business owners benefit from:
- World-class restaurants, shopping malls, buildings and beaches
- Unrivalled safety and security
- Affordable healthcare
- Digital connectivity: More than 93% of the population is online
- Easy global business operations
3. Business-Friendly Tax Incentives
The UAE offers one of the most competitive tax regimes in the world:
- 100% foreign ownership
- Maximized profits through favorable tax structure
- More capital for business growth and lifestyle
4. Strategic Location and Connectivity
The UAE enjoys a strategic location in the heart of the Middle East with:
- Access to markets in Europe, Africa and Asia
- Dubai International Airport: One of the busiest airports in the world
- Jabal Ali Port: One of the world's largest seaports
Steps to Getting a UAE Tourism License
The UAE tourism license application process consists of three main steps:
Step 1: Application Submission
Submit your application for the tourism license including:
- Business name
- Business activities
Legal requirements for business names:
- Cannot be considered offensive or blasphemous
- Must avoid titles already used by existing organisations
Processing time: Tourism license can be received in as little as two hours, depending on the free zone.
Step 2: E-channel Services Authorisation
The UAE has introduced an e-channel service to eliminate unnecessary paperwork and speed up business setup in each emirate.
Process:
- Apply for your entry permit through the e-channel service
- Receive entry permit with right to stay in the region for 60 days
Step 3: Status Change
After receiving your entry permit:
- Activate status change: Either in the country or by exiting and re-entering the relevant emirate (depending on your country of citizenship)
- Undergo medical tests: Required to acquire your Emirates ID
- Obtain Emirates ID: Legally required for all business owners
Emirates ID benefits:
- Open bank accounts
- Rent properties
- Take out phone contracts
Related resource: Emirates ID Renewal Guide for Expats
Documents Required to Open a Tourism Company in the UAE
Essential Documents
| Document |
Description |
| Tourism License application form |
Completed application |
| Passport copy |
Copy of your passport or the applicant's passport |
| Passport photographs |
Two colour passport photographs |
Additional Documents (May Be Required)
You may also need to provide:
- Certification of work qualifications
- Proof of clean criminal records
- No Objection letter
- Other supporting documentation
Recommendation: Working with a company formation specialist like SPC Free Zone ensures you have the right documents and can speed up the business setup process while avoiding unnecessary hurdles and additional expenses.
Why Choose SPC Free Zone?
Location and Accessibility
- Location: Heart of the UAE, Sharjah
- Distance from Dubai International Airport: 15 minutes
- Immigration services: Available on-site
Fast Processing
- Tourism license can be issued in less than two hours
- Fast and flexible business setup in the UAE
Business Setup Benefits
| Feature |
Details |
| Business activities available |
More than 1,500 business activities |
| Visas per license |
Apply for 20 visas under one license |
| License options |
Dual-license option: both mainland and free zone on the same license |
| Paid-up share capital |
Zero paid-up share capital required |
| Ownership |
100% foreign ownership |
Services Offered
SPC Free Zone provides comprehensive support including:
- Business license application assistance
- Immigration services
- Document preparation and verification
- Expert business advisors
- Guidance through legal requirements
Getting Started
To start your tourism company in the UAE through SPC Free Zone:
- Contact SPC Free Zone business advisors
- Determine which specific tourism license applies to your business
- Prepare required documentation
- Submit application
- Complete e-channel authorization
- Activate status change and obtain Emirates ID
Contact: Get in touch with SPC Free Zone to avoid unnecessary hurdles and additional expenses.
Related Resources
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