How to Get Holiday Homes License in Dubai, UAE?

With Dubai’s thriving tourism industry and its appeal to travelers worldwide, renting out properties as Holiday Homes has become a popular venture for homeowners and investors alike. Offering guests the freedom of a fully furnished apartment or villa, a Holiday Home business can be a lucrative opportunity. However, operating a Holiday Home legally in Dubai requires a specific license, ensuring that properties meet the standards set by the Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM). Here’s a guide on how to get your Holiday Homes license in Dubai.

What is a Holiday Homes License?

A Holiday Homes license allows property owners or authorized property management companies to rent out residential units to tourists and short-term guests on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis. This license ensures that all registered properties meet Dubai’s standards for hospitality and safety, enhancing the quality of the guest experience and protecting the reputation of Dubai’s tourism industry.

Who Can Apply for a Holiday Homes License?

In Dubai, a Holiday Homes license can be obtained by:

1. Individual Property Owners: Homeowners can apply for a license to operate their own property as a Holiday Home, provided they meet the DTCM’s criteria and follow local regulations.
2. Licensed Property Management Companies: For property owners who prefer not to manage the rental process themselves, they can work with licensed property management companies that handle multiple Holiday Homes. These companies are licensed to manage listings on behalf of property owners, taking care of guest communication, check-ins, maintenance, and cleaning services.

Step 1: Verify Eligibility and Compliance with Property Standards

Before applying for a license, ensure that your property is suitable for use as a Holiday Home:

• Property Type: Only residential properties such as apartments and villas are eligible. Commercial properties or industrial units cannot be licensed as Holiday Homes.
• Condition and Amenities: The property should be in good condition and fully furnished, offering essential amenities such as Wi-Fi, kitchen appliances, and basic furniture.
• Safety Compliance: Your property must adhere to safety regulations, including functioning smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and proper emergency exits as per Dubai’s safety standards.

Step 2: Register on the DTCM Holiday Home Portal

Dubai’s DTCM provides an online portal where property owners and management companies can submit applications for a Holiday Homes license. Here’s how to get started:

1. Create an Account: Go to the DTCM Holiday Homes website and create an account to start the application process.
2. Upload Required Documents: You will need to provide documents such as:
   • Proof of property ownership (title deed or sale agreement).
   • A valid Emirates ID or passport copy of the property owner.
   • A No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the building management (if applicable).
   • Proof of insurance coverage for the property.
   • Floor plans and property details.
   For those leasing a property, you may need written approval from the landlord, granting permission to use the property as a Holiday Home.

Step 3: Submit the Application and Pay the Fees

Once all documents are uploaded, you can submit your application through the portal. The application includes a processing fee, which varies depending on the type and size of the property. Fees typically cover the cost of the license itself as well as inspections and administrative costs.

Step 4: Schedule an Inspection

Upon receiving your application, DTCM will arrange an inspection of the property to ensure it meets all the necessary requirements for a Holiday Home license. During the inspection, officials will check that the property is furnished, secure, and in compliance with health and safety standards.

If your property passes the inspection, you’ll be one step closer to receiving your license. In the event of any deficiencies, DTCM may ask for improvements to be made before granting the license.

Step 5: Obtain the Holiday Homes License and Start Operating

After completing the inspection and fulfilling all requirements, DTCM will issue the Holiday Homes license. You’re now legally permitted to list and rent out your property on short-term rental platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, Vrbo, Agoda, and Expedia.

The license is typically valid for one year, after which it must be renewed annually to maintain compliance. This renewal process involves paying a renewal fee and potentially undergoing another property inspection.

Additional Guidelines for Operating a Holiday Home

Once you have your Holiday Homes license, you’re required to adhere to certain guidelines set by DTCM:

• Transparent Advertising: Advertise your property truthfully, without exaggerating or making false claims.
• Maintaining Safety Standards: Ensure the property remains safe and well-maintained. Regularly check smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and other safety equipment.
• Paying Tourism Fees: Dubai imposes a tourism fee, also known as the “Tourism Dirham Fee,” on short-term rentals. This fee must be collected from guests and paid to DTCM.

Why Get a Holiday Homes License?

Operating a licensed Holiday Home provides numerous benefits, including:

• Legitimacy and Credibility: With a DTCM license, your property is recognized as a legitimate Holiday Home, which can boost guest trust and help your listing stand out.
• Increased Earnings Potential: Licensed Holiday Homes can be advertised on top short-term rental platforms, increasing the likelihood of bookings and maximizing occupancy rates.
• Peace of Mind: Operating legally means you won’t face potential fines or shutdowns due to non-compliance, ensuring stability in your business.

Hostup: Your Partner in Running a Successful Holiday Home Business

For those looking to maximize their income and run a seamless Holiday Home operation, Hostup is here to help. Hostup provides a complete suite of services for hosts and property managers, including upsell opportunities like massages and local experiences, and an easy-to-use e-commerce storefront that allows hosts to boost revenue without additional hassle. Hostup takes the complexity out of managing a Holiday Home, letting you focus on delivering a memorable guest experience while increasing your profitability.

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