How to Start Airbnb Business in Dubai

The Airbnb business in Dubai is one of the most profitable business ideas in the UAE. Dubai’s short-term rental market ranks 1st in the GCC region, driven by the city’s strong tourism sector, strong government support, and the highest lucrative rental yields. Thus, renting out properties in Dubai through the Airbnb platform is a great opportunity.

Quick summary:

• Airbnb business in UAE is legal.
• Requires DET trade license and DTCM Holiday Home Permit.
• Property owners, tenants, and businesses can run Airbnb listings.
• Villas, apartments, single rooms, and other types, can be rented out.
• List property on Airbnb platform with clear pictures and descriptions.

However, the Airbnb business setup process includes careful understanding of related regulations. This guide provides a step-by-step process on how to do Airbnb business in Dubai successfully, including the cost of setup and other key details.

What is an Airbnb Business in Dubai?

An Airbnb business in Dubai involves renting properties, either entirely or partially, to guests after obtaining a DET trade license and DTCM approval.

Such businesses often manage multiple properties and promote them on the Airbnb platform, an online marketplace that connects them to those seeking accommodation.

Key facts about Dubai Airbnb business:

• In Dubai, since 2018, the government has allowed individuals to rent out their homes and properties on Airbnb.
• Individuals are allowed to rent up to eight properties.
• Tenants can also rent their leased space (only one unit) after taking the landlord’s permission.
• Airbnb businesses in Dubai can rent more than eight units and require a trade license.

Legal Requirements for the Airbnb Business in Dubai

Airbnb businesses in Dubai should have a valid UAE trade license and DTCM approval. Here are the essential legal requirements for starting an Airbnb business in Dubai:

A. Business registration:

The Airbnb business must be registered with the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). This step ensures that the business complies with local regulations.

B. DET trade license:

A suitable trade license is required to conduct any business in Dubai. An Airbnb business needs a trade license for the activity “Vacation Home Rentals” from the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).

C. Registering the property and getting DTCM approval:

The properties to be let by the business should be registered as a holiday home on the DET online portal. DTCM issues a holiday home permit to eligible Airbnb businesses in Dubai after successful registration of the property. The Airbnb license Dubai assures that your property meets the necessary standards of safety, amenities, and quality for guests.

Note: Missing any of the above legal requirements can hinder your business setup process. We recommend getting in touch with our business setup experts for proper guidance.

How to Set up an Airbnb Business in Dubai?

The process of starting an Airbnb business in Dubai involves securing the right permits, preparing the properties, and listing them on the Airbnb platform.

Here is a step-by-step guide for starting an Airbnb in Dubai successfully:

Step 1 – Understanding the market:

Start the process by studying the current short-term rental market in Dubai.

• Current rental trends: Look at the types of properties people are looking for, similar properties like yours being rented, their occupancy rates, rental prices, and overall guest preferences and needs.
• Strategic pricing: Based on current rental yields and competitor pricing, you can set attractive pricing.
• Identify the target customers: As an Airbnb business Dubai, you can cater to families, business travelers, and tourists.
• Find beneficial locations: Areas with high demand and high yields include Downtown Dubai, Jumeirah, DAMAC Hills, and Dubai Marina.

Property market understanding helps you set competitive prices and provide better services than competitors by identifying market gaps.

Step 2 – Understand the local regulations:

Familiarize yourself with the regulatory framework for Airbnb and vacation rentals in Dubai. The market is strictly overseen by the DTCM and the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), and you must know their rules related to quality standards, cleanliness of property, safety of guests, basic amenities, and registration of properties.

Step 3 – Name your business:

Next, choose a unique name for your Airbnb business that complies with UAE naming rules:

• Make sure the name reflects the services you offer.
• It should not be offensive or violate moral or religious values.
• The name must not already be registered by another company.
• Do not use the name of any government body or department.

Step 4 – Get initial approval:

Get the initial NOC from DET for your business. Initial approval is basically a green signal that the UAE government has no objection to your business establishment in the nation.

Step 5 – Register with DET and obtain a trade license:

Next, request a trade license for your Airbnb business in Dubai from the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). The steps include:

1. Fill out the license application form through the DET online portal or the service center.
2. Attach the required documents, including a passport copy, photo, business plan, office lease contract, etc.
3. Pay the necessary license fees.
4. DET will review the application, and upon satisfaction, your trade license will be issued.

Step 6 – Get DTCM Holiday Home Permit:

The property you intend to rent on Airbnb must be registered with the DET. Upon successful registration, you will receive a certificate of approval, also known as a Holiday Home Permit from DTCM.

Steps to get a holiday home permit in Dubai:

1. Log in to the portal: Log in or create an account on the Dubai Tourism Holiday Home Portal.

2. Add unit: Click on “Add Unit” and enter information such as unit type, number of bedrooms, location, developer information, etc.

3. Submit supporting documents: You will be required to submit documents such as:

• A passport copy and a copy of the Emirates ID or the passport of the authorized signatory
• Trade license copy
• A DEWA bill
• A title deed copy (for owners)

4. Self-classification: Once you receive approval, your unit will be added to the account, and you can self-classify it.

5. Make payment: Pay the required fees for the permit and the classification certificate. Once done, the unit status will be updated as approved. Registration fees start at AED 1,520*.

By law, the certificate of registration must be displayed on the property.

Step 7 – Get a visa and corporate bank account:

If you are a foreigner, you must obtain a Dubai residency visa to legally stay and work in Dubai. You can also sponsor visas for your family and staff. Once the visa process is complete, open a business bank account to manage finances for your Airbnb business.

Step 8 – List Property on Airbnb Platform to start hosting:

Finally, you can create an account on the Airbnb platform and list the properties after fulfilling the requirements. Here is how to list properties on Airbnb:

1. Create an account: Sign up on the Airbnb platform as a host using your email, phone number, etc.
2. Verify your identity: Use a national ID card (Emirates ID) to verify your identity.
3. Enter property details: Provide details about your property, such as its location, type, capacity, and other relevant information.
4. Add photos and descriptions: Upload high-quality pictures and write a detailed description of your property for guests.
5. Manage bookings: Use Airbnb’s built-in tools to manage guest inquiries and bookings.

In case you need any further assistance, please reach out to Dubiz Business Setup.

Documents Required for a Dubai Airbnb Business

Here is the list of documents required to start an Airbnb business in Dubai:

• Copy of a valid passport
• Passport-sized photographs
• Copy of UAE residence visa and Emirates ID
• Property title deed
• NOC from landlord (if renting as a tenant)
• DEWA bill, not older than 3 months
• High-quality images of the property to be listed
• UAE trade license
• DTCM Holiday Home Permit
• Rental agreement, if applicable
• Property insurance documents

There may be additional document requirements depending on your specific business conditions.

Cost of Starting an Airbnb Business in the UAE

The Airbnb license Dubai cost starts at AED 15,000*. The overall cost of business setup may vary based on specific busine ss needs and property requirements.

Here are the typical costs involved:

• License and permit cost
• Property setup costs
• Marketing expenses
• Airbnb platform fees
• Utilities and maintenance fees
• Other expenses
• Office setup costs
• PRO services charges
• Visa costs

To ascertain an accurate budget, you can utilize our free cost calculator.

Calculate Cost

Tips for Preparing the Airbnb Property for Guests

The Airbnb business in Dubai revolves around properties being leased, so making the property attractive is crucial. Nicely listed properties receive more bookings than others.

Here are some tips that can help you perform well in the market:

1. Offer different types of accommodations:

You can offer a range of accommodations to meet different budgets and suit various types of travelers, including single rooms, entire apartments, and more. Ensure the area is tidy and welcoming with basic sleeping and bathroom facilities.

2. Invest in quality furnishings and decor:

Invest in high-quality furnishings, decor, and amenities that will appeal to the eyes of your potential guests. It creates a comfortable and inviting atmosphere for guests.

3. Ensure safety and quality standards:

Safety and quality cannot be compromised at any cost. Make sure the guests’ stay is extremely comfortable and secure. Have proper facilities in place, such as CCTV surveillance, comfortable furnishings, and necessary utilities.

4. Incorporate smart home features:

Smart home features can increase convenience for guests. Consider installing tech controls like fire control systems, smart locks and doors, voice-controlled speakers, and motion sensors.

5. Create a memorable customer experience:

Small gestures matter in the hospitality sector. For example, presenting a small welcome basket to guests. These small things can create a positive impression of your Airbnb business.

6. Create an attractive listing on Airbnb:

Take professional photos that cover every angle of your property and highlight its best features. Be transparent by including pictures of every room and area. Ensure guests can get a clear idea of what to expect.

7. Engaging and optimized property descriptions:

Write an engaging description that includes SEO keywords to improve visibility on the Airbnb platform. Be sure to provide all the relevant details about the space that guests may be looking for. Rules related to pets, check-in/check-out times, and other essential information must be communicated openly to avoid misunderstandings.

8. Use competitive pricing strategies:

Charging too high initially is not recommended. Start with lower rates, and based on demand, service quality, and feedback, you can increase your rent charges over time. Airbnb’s smart pricing tool helps adjust rates automatically based on demand.

Overview of the Short-term Rental Market in Dubai

The short-term rentals market in Dubai is a booming industry and has witnessed significant growth in recent years. Every year, a large number of properties are added to the market.

These professionally managed properties offer comfortable stays, amenities, and services to travelers coming to Dubai from different parts of the world.

• Dubai has become a luxury travel destination, with visitors willing to pay for high-end accommodations.
• Families and groups increasingly prefer larger short-term rental accommodations like apartments and villas for more spacious living.
• Travelers are seeking a variety of rental arrangements that suit their travel needs and budgets.

Dubai Airbnb Market Trends (Nov 2024 – Oct 2025)

Source credits: airbtics.com

Dubai is therefore one of the best destinations to start any tourism-related business, including an Airbnb business.

Advantages of the Short-term Rental Business in Dubai

Given the bustling tourism sector of Dubai and the influx of travelers, starting an Airbnb business in Dubai can be very profitable.

Here are the key advantages of starting an Airbnb business in Dubai:

• High rental yields: Dubai’s short-term rental properties yield very high returns compared to other regions.
• Expanding platforms: Platforms such as Airbnb and Booking.com make it very convenient for hosts to rent out their properties to a wide range of potential guests.
• Simple licensing process: The licensing for the short-term rental properties has been streamlined by Dubai tourism, with the application available online.
• Tax-friendly policies: Dubai offers very low corporate tax rates for businesses (0% for qualifying entities), allowing them to save more profits.
• Flexible operations: The Airbnb business can be managed from anywhere. In case you have other commitments, you can still run your rental business on the side.

Homeowners and hosts in Dubai can rent out the extra spaces that they don’t use and turn them into a steady stream of income.

Take a leap into the Airbnb business in the UAE

Dubai’s thriving tourism industry, combined with high demand, high rental yields, and investor-friendly policies, makes the Airbnb business in Dubai one of the profitable opportunities in 2026 for property investors and homeowners.

To succeed in Dubai:

• Prioritize exceptional customer service and communication with guests.
• Use social media (Instagram, Facebook, TikTok) to increase your online presence.
• Collaborate with local tourism companies to develop networks.
• Collect reviews from your guests and continuously improve your services.
• Always stay compliant with Dubai Tourism’s laws and regulations.

Dubiz can help with Airbnb Business Setup in Dubai

Dubiz Business Setup can help start Airbnb business Dubai. We will process your trade license, DTCM permits, bank account opening, and residency visas.

If you want to truly simplify your business setup in Dubai, reach out to us. We assure you that you will receive the best company formation services at the best prices.

• End-to-end company formation services provided
• 50+ certified business setup consultants
• Ongoing legal compliance for UAE companies
• VAT, corporate tax, and UAE company auditing services
• Assistance with visas for investors, employees, and dependents
• Business center solutions

📞 Call: +971 56 369 5485

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📧 Email: info@dubiz.co

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