Dubai is a tourist destination that attracts millions of tourists every year. According to official statistics, the tourism industry is predicted to be worth AED 116bn by 2027, ie. 5.4% of UAE GDP. The UAE government is also constantly working towards the development of the tourism industry in the country. With the upcoming Expo 2021, there is a higher scope for tourism in Dubai. If you are planning to start a travel agency, this is the perfect time to kickstart your business. We have prepared a detailed guide that will help you in setting up your business from scratch. Follow these steps in the right sequence:

1 . Determine the nature of your activity

Firstly, you need to decide how you will operate, for example as an inbound tour operator, outbound tour operator, or a travel agent. Inbound tour operators deal with foreign tourists who are travelling to attend any conference or seminar. After obtaining this license, an operator can deal with the visa, transport and residency process for the complete tour.

If you are planning to sell tourist programs abroad by collaborating with travel agents, then an outbound tour operator license is required. If you wish to set up a travel business for selling tickets, seat reservations, hotel booking, car rental services, a travel agent license is required.

2. Select the company name

Choose 3 name options for your company as per the naming conventions of the country.

3. Apply for the business license

For operating a travel agency, you will have to acquire a tourism license that will be issued by the DED. For this, you require an outline of your business plan, a clean criminal record certificate and a ‘No Objection Certificate’ (NOC) from the Civil Aviation Authority if you are planning to sell airline tickets.

4. Obtain employee visas

After obtaining the tourism license, the investor can register on the Ministry of Interior’s e-channels portal. Once the permits are issued employees can perform an in-country status change to obtain a permanent employment visa of the country. You will require your trade license, passport copies, and establishment card for employment visa application.

5 .Banking Account

Once all the above steps are completed, the investor can apply for a corporate bank account.

Polestar Advisory Services is a renowned company incorporation firm in Dubai who can provide you with valuable assistance at every step of the process. Our team of business setup experts can complete all necessary paperwork on your behalf thereby allowing you to focus better on your business. Contact us to know more.