Dubai is one of the most lucrative — and most regulated — short-term rental markets in the world. The Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), formerly DTCM, oversees holiday homes to keep safety and quality standards high. Setting up legally protects your investment and your revenue.
| Phase | Requirement | Action |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Licensing | DET Holiday Home permit | Register on the DET portal as an individual owner, or partner with a licensed agency. |
| 2. NOC | No Objection Certificate | Get formal approval from your building developer or owners' association. |
| 3. Tourism Dirham | Collect & remit the nightly fee | Charge guests per classification; file monthly reports to DET. |
| 4. Safety | Meet guest-safety standards | Fire extinguisher, smoke detectors, first-aid kit, printed emergency exit map. |
| Classification | Standard | Deluxe |
|---|---|---|
| Required amenities | Quality matching furniture, standard appliances. | Premium furnishings, designer styling, top-tier appliances. |
| Tourism Dirham* | AED 10 per occupied bedroom / night | AED 15 per occupied bedroom / night |
| Typical guests | Value travelers, families, remote workers. | HNW individuals, business & luxury travelers. |
*Charged per occupied bedroom per night, up to the first 30 consecutive nights. Verified against 2026 DET sources — confirm on the official portal before relying on them, as fees can change. A separate Municipality fee (~7–10% of revenue) may also apply.
For the step-by-step permit process, see our DET permit guide, and confirm current rules on the official DET portal.
Published by the Purple Holiday Homes team — a DET-licensed Dubai holiday-home operator managing units across the city’s prime communities.
We handle licensing, insurance and filings so you collect passive profits.