Dubai is currently one of the world’s most amazing travel destinations with a lot to offer. In fact, it is easy to say that it is one of the dream places to live in. Travel agencies are therefore quite successful in Dubai. If you think you have the potential, then it is very convenient to start a travel agency in Dubai that can generate a good amount of profit for you and your partner. 

It is safe to say that anyone can start a travel agency in Dubai; you don’t have to be a resident or an Emirati.  This means that no matter what your nationality is, you can launch this profitable business in Dubai. So let’s explore the reasons why you should open up a travel agency in Dubai and the procedures for opening a travel agency in Dubai.

The most recent data indicates that more than 15 million people visit Dubai annually. Additionally, the tourism industry is regaining its success as the COVID-19 pandemic comes to an end. Therefore, this is the most suitable time to open a travel agency in Dubai. Dubai recently altered its current ownership regulations. Since foreigners are now permitted to own 100% of their companies, you are now able to run your travel agency in Dubai alone.

5 Important Things to Consider before Setting Up a Travel Agency in Dubai

Although it is quite easy to start up your own travel agency in Dubai, there are still some rules you need to follow to make sure your income is white and you have enough job security in the future. When you start a business in Dubai, it grants you many benefits. Let’s look at some of the most important things to consider before you can finally start your own travel adventure in a completely new place.

1. Select your Business Activity

Establishing your business activity, such as a travel agency, tour operator, or travel and tourist consultant, is the first step. It must fit with one of the tens of thousands of activities that are legal in the UAE. At this step, working with a business formation provider that can recommend those that most correspond with your business can help you guarantee that your license covers you for your chosen business activity.

Do you want to become a travel agent, outbound tour operator, or inbound tour operator? It is for you to decide. Research all three types of travel agency licenses, and pick the one that best fits your interests and which you think is possible for you then apply for the relevant license. 

2. Choose your Travel Agency Name

The name is one of the most significant features of the company because whatever name you choose represents your company. If you are planning to start up your own travel agency, you cannot name it “Sweets & Treats” because this name shows that you own a candy shop, which you surely don’t! You can search for ideas to get inspiration and have the best travel agency name.

Although, you have to be careful about one thing. Do not ever think about copying someone else’s name because ultimately they will find out and you will have to suffer from the consequences. It is important to research properly to have a secure future and not get into any kind of trouble. 

3. Get a Business License

The DED is responsible for granting trade or business licenses in Dubai for the commercial, professional, industrial, and tourism sectors. All businesses, regardless of industry, are required to hold a trade license at the very least. Depending on the legal structure of your company, the application typically calls for copies of shareholder passports, your memorandum of association, and the certificate of incorporation.

Certain industries require supplementary licenses from the appropriate licensing bodies; in the case of tourism, this is the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM). Dubai guarantees a profitable business if you follow all the requirements properly and this is one of the top reasons why you should invest in Dubai.

4. Open a Bank Account

Without a trade license, no bank will acknowledge your company. However, choose your bank carefully because a bad decision could have negative consequences.

The majority will call for a consistent minimum balance, usually between AED 1 million and AED 5,000. Additionally, some need documentation of the residency status of at least one shareholder while others do not.

5. Make sure you have all the documents

There are a few documents that you must present to the licensing authority in Dubai. The Department of Economic Development in Dubai is the licensing organization in charge of managing new business registration. Additionally, they require a few papers for regulatory purposes.

The following paperwork must be submitted to the Department of Economic Development in Dubai in order to operate a travel agency:

• Filled-out application for a tourism license
• Passport copies for all of the travel agency’s stockholders and management.
• A police clearance document from the local police department attesting to a spotless record
• Certificates attesting to your qualifications for the job
• The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has granted a No Objection Certificate (NOC).
• A copy of the experience certificate for the managers.

It is difficult to remember every step and to make sure that all the necessary paperwork has been submitted on one’s own. It is advisable to speak with experienced firm setup experts before applying for licenses to ensure that the proper method is being followed.

Conclusion

We hope this article cleared up all the confusion in your mind and helped you become aware of all the necessary steps that should be followed to start your own travel agency in Dubai. You have already taken the first step to launching your own travel business if you have read this article properly and we wish you the best of luck!