How to become an AirBnB host?
In Dubai, home owners and tenants can put up their apartments on the vacation rental website by registering their unit as a ‘holiday home’.
What is a holiday home?
Holiday homes are apartment units that are put up on short-term rentals, and are ideal for visitors looking for something more homely and affordable to hotel rooms. In Dubai, holiday homes need to be registered with Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM), with an annual permit that is issued by the authority. These can be applied for regardless of whether you are the home owner or a tenant.
How to apply for a holiday home
If you wish to list your unit as a holiday home, follow these steps outlined by DTCM on their website:
1. Visit DTCM’s Holiday Homes portal - https://hh.dtcm.gov.ae/holidayhomes/Welcome.aspx and register a new account.
2. Click on 'Add Unit'. Complete the required information including unit type, number of bedrooms, area, developer etc.
3. Submit supporting documents. Required documents include:
- Title deed or sales purchase agreement copy and payment completion certificate.
- Signed passport copy or Emirates ID of the landlord.
- Trade Licence if the unit 'landlord' is a company, plus Emirates ID or passport copy of the authorised signatory.
- Property Management Letter as per downloadable template.
- Current Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) bill.
- Tenancy contract for individual tenant.
- If applicable, landlord’s No Objection Certificate (using the DTCM form).
4. Review and submit. Review your application before submitting it for approval. All applications will be reviewed within one business day.
5. Upon approval, self-classify your apartment. Once approval is received via email, your unit will be added to your dashboard and is available for self-classification.
6. Make payment. After submitting your self-classification, pay the required permit and classification certificate fees. Once paid, the unit status will be updated to approved.
What are the fees?
The fees will depend on the type of property you are putting up.
Annual registration fee - Dh1,500
Permit fees (which depend on the size of your unit) – Dh300 per bedroom, and a maximum amount of Dh1,200.
Unit classification fee - Dh50
Knowledge fee - Dh10
Innovation fee - Dh10
Tourism dirham fee - Dh10 or Dh15 per bedroom, depending on the classification of the unit as standard or deluxe.
Once you have received the necessary approvals from DTCM, you can list your unit on AirBnb or other holiday home websites.
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Listing a property on Airbnb requires the owner to get a permit from
the DTCM (Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing).
The owner must create a profile for the property on Airbnb with a description and photos. Then, the owner has to stay active on the site to answer inquiries.
When a booking is made, the new occupant will have to be given the key and building access cards, and a number to call in case things need fixing.
With every booking, the owner must also take a passport scan from the occupants and send it to the DTCM. A tax from guests also has to be paid to the department.
Local laws require an entire property to be listed and not individual rooms or shared accommodation, both of which are liable for heavy penalties.
STEPS TO FOLLOW
Follow this link to the DTCM’s online platform and go through the steps given on the portal. You’ll next have to visit the DTCM in Al Garhoud during business hours on working days. Copy of your Emirates ID is required.
You can then upload your property and relevant documents on the DTCM platform. If you’re a tenant, make sure to get a letter of no-objection from the landlord.
You’ll also need to purchase insurance for your home. You have pay Dh1,520 to activate your account with the DTCM’s online platform. There’s also a Dh300 fee for each bedroom in your property, and a Dh70 management fee.
- The DTCM rules allow only a full home to be rented out.
- Failure to register your properties with the DTCM will leave you liable for a Dh5,000 fine.
- Then, the owner must create a profile for the property on Airbnb with a description and photos. Then, the owner has to stay active on the site to answer enquiries.
- When a booking is made, the new occupant will have to be given the key and building access cards, and a number to call in case things need fixing.
- Make sure to get passport copies of each guest and submit them to the DTCM.
- With every booking, the owner must also take a passport scan from the occupants and send it to the DTCM. A tax from guests also has to be paid to the department.
When you’ve put the property up on Airbnb, just make sure to get passport copies of each guest and submit them to the DTCM. You will also need to pay a tax to the DTCM each month.
Airbnb is regulated in Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah Emirates.
WHERE IN DUBAI CAN A HOLIDAY HOME BE PERMITED?
Holiday Homes may be permitted throughout Dubai including free zones, special development
zones and real Estate communities as determined by DTCM.
TYPES OF HOLIDAY HOMES PROPERTIES
A Holiday Home may be an apartment in a residential or mixed-use building, a town-house or
independent villa but must be a complete unit and not part of a unit.
CATEGORIES OF HOLIDAY HOMES UNITS
Holiday Homes Units are classified into two categories
1- Deluxe
2- Standard
DO I NEED A LICENSE FROM DED?
Yes, Professional Operators’ registration is a two Stages process, the First stage is to issue a
Holiday Homes License from the Department of Economics Development, and the second is to
register in the Holiday homes Online System with DTCM.
WHAT ARE THE REQUIRED DOCUMENTS TO OBTAIN A HOLIDAY HOMES
LICENSE?
For the Document required to obtain a Holiday Homes License Contact DED (Department of
Economics Developments) and they will guide you through the procedure and requirements to
issue a license.
CAN I OPERATE IMMEDIATELY AFTER OBTAINING THE LICENSE?
After obtaining the licenses you are required to register in DTCM Holiday Home system and
issue permits for the property/ies you manage before you start operating the Units.
HOW CAN I REGISTER WITH MY COMPANY WITH DTCM
Step one: go to http://hh.dtcm.gov.ae/holidayhomes , click on register a new operator, and fill
your establishment details.
Step Two: Fill the mangers details
Step Three: Attach a copy of trade license
You will be receiving an email from DTCM activating your account
HOW DO I ISSUE A PERMIT
Once your account is activated you can log in to the holiday homes system and apply for a
permit through the following steps:
1- Click on add unit.
2- Fill the property details form.
3- Attach the required documents
4- Submit the application and wait for DTCM Approval.
5- Once your application is approved you are required to classify the unit and pay for the
permit.
WHAT ARE THE REQUIRED DOCUMENTS FOR THE HOLIDAY HOMES
PERMIT?
The Documents required for each unit permit are
1. Unit Title Deed.
2. Owner’s Passport Copy/ trade license and authorized person passport copy for cooperate
owners.
3. Authorization Letter as per DTCM Template.
4. Recent DEWA bill for the mentioned unit.
HOW DO I CLASSIFY MY UNIT?
There are two categories for Holiday Homes, Standard and Deluxe. As per your selection in the
initial step manger are required to submit a self-assessment form for the unit classification.
DOES DTCM INSPECT THE PROPERTY FOR THE CLASSIFICATION?
No, in Holiday Homes we follow a self-assessment approach, where managers will go through a
list of the criteria and classify the units they operate.
HOW DO I KNOW WHY WAS MY APPLICATION REJECTED
When the application is rejected DTCM adds a comment to the rejected application, you can
view the comments by:
1- Click on the application number.
2- Go to related records,
3- select the last record
4- click view
5- finally click on processing status
HOW TO PRINT THE PAYMENT ORDER
1- Click on the application No.
2- Go to related records,
3- Click View last classification record
4- Go the fees and print the Payment Order
HOW CAN I PAY THE PERMIT FEES
There are two payment options
- Bank transfer/ deposited to DTCM Account.
- In DTCM by Cash / company cheque.
HOW TO CONFIRM THE PAYMENT?
If the payment was done in DTCM cashier the payment will be confirmed automatically.
If the payment was done through bank transfer/ deposit mangers are required to confirm the
payment;
1- Click on confirm payment next to the required unit
2- Enter the payment details
a. Payment type: (bank transfer)
3- Upload the bank receipt.
4- Confirmation will take within 2 working days.
HOW CAN I PRINT THE UNIT PERMIT?
Click on the Record ID for the Unit and you will find the print option.
DO I NEED TO PAY 10% DUBAI MUNICIPALITY FEES?
No Dubai Municipality fees won’t be applicable for Holiday Homes units.
HOW CAN I GET THE LIST OF HOLIDAY HOMES OPERATORS?
You can get the list by calling the customer service department on 600 555559 or by Emailing
info@visitdubai.ae
IS THERE A FORMAT FOR THE CONTRACT BETWEEN THE HOLIDAY HOMES
OPERATOR AND THE HOME OWNER?
No, the contract can be designed by the operator and agreed upon by both parties.
IS THERE IS A MINIMUM NUMBER OF UNITS?
There is no minimum units required from DTCM.
HOW CAN I CREATE ACCOUNTS FOR MY STAFF?
On DTCM Holiday Homes System, under Users tab you can click on add Admin and create
accounts for your team
HOW CAN I CREATE ACCOUNTS FOR A NEW MANGER?
On DTCM Holiday Homes System, under Users tab you can click on add Manger and create
accounts for your team
Note: the manager must be in the trade license of the operator thus an update trade license is
required along with the passport copy.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN MANGER AND ADMIN?
Admin has access to check-in and check-out only. While mangers can check-in outs, add/ delete
unit and generate operational reports.
HOLIDAY HOMES INDIVIDUAL OPERATORS
DO I NEED A LICENSE FROM DED?
No, all that is required is to register on DTCM Holiday Homes system.
WHAT ARE THE REQUIRED DOCUMENTS TO REGISTER ON THE SYSTEM?
The documents required is the Passport or Emirates ID.
HOW CAREGISTER AS OPERATOR IN DTCM
Step one: go to (https://hh.dtcm.gov.ae/holidayhomes), click on register a new operator.
Step two: enter your contact information.
Step three: upload your emirates ID or Passport copy.
- Step Four: pay the system registration fees and activate your account notification email
will be sent with the credential, where you will need to visit DTCM for the activation and
payments
WHAT ARE THE REQUIRED DOCUMENTS FOR THE HOLIDAY HOMES
PERMIT?
The Documents required for each unit
1. Unit Title Deed.
1. Dewa Bill (under the owner name)
For tenants who have the approval of their landlord to operate the home as a Holiday home the
following documents are required in addition:
1. Lease Agreement with subleasing clause
2. No Objection Certificate from Landlord (DTCM Template- check appx.)
3. Title deed
4. Owner passport copy or Emirates ID.
5. Dewa Bill ( UNDER owner or ternate name)
HOW DO I CLASSIFY MY UNIT?
There are two categories for Holiday Homes, Standard and Deluxe. As per your selection in the
initial step manager are required to submit a self-assessment form for the unit classification.
DOES DTCM INSPUCT THE PROPERTY FOR THE CLASSIFICATION?
No, in Holiday Homes we follow a self-assessment Method, where Home owner will go through
a list of the criteria and classify the units the units.
HOW DO I KNOW WHY WAS MY APPLICATION REJECTED
When the application is rejected DTCM adds a comment to the rejected application, you can
view by:
1- Click on the application
2- Go to processing status
3- Click on the comments and Expand to see the rejection comments
HOW TO PRINT THE PAYMENT ORDER
1- Click on the application No.
2- Go to related records,
3- Click View last classification record
4- Go the fees and print the Payment Order
HOW CAN I PAY THE PERMIT FEES
There are two payment options
Bank transfer/ deposited to DTCM Account.
Bank name: Dubai Islamic Bank (Dubai Main Branch)
Account name: GOVT. OF DUBAI – DTCM
Account number: 001520005097601
Account number (IBAN): AE430240001520005097601
In DTCM by Cash / company cheque.
HOW TO CONFIRM THE PAYMENT?
If the payment was done in DTCM cashier the payment will be confirmed automatically.
If the payment was done through bank transfer/ deposit mangers are required to confirm the
payment;
1- Click on confirm payment next to the required unit
2- Enter the payment details
a. payment type: (Bank Transfer)
3- Upload the bank receipt.
4- Confirmation will take within 2 working days.
Log in the system and enter the enter details.
HOW CAN I PRINT THE UNIT PERMIT?
Click on the Record ID for the Unit and you will find the print option.
1. Click on the unit number next to the required unit
2. Go to the record details
3. Under the More Detail click on Permit and then print.
DO I NEED TO PAY 10% DUBAI MUNICIPALITY FEES?
No Dubai Municipality fees won’t be applicable for Holiday Homes units.
OPERATIONS
DO I NEED INSURANCE FOR THE UNITS?
Yes, operator are required to have insurance policies covering the risk that may occur to guest,
the property and building.
CAN I ADVERTISE ON ONLINE PLATFORMS?
You can use any marketing channel to advertise your unit(s) after obtaining a holiday home
permit for the unit.
CAN I SHARE THE HOLIDAY HOMES UNIT WITH MY GUEST?
No, a holiday home unit should be rented as a whole unit and can’t be shared with the owner or
another guest.
CAN A UNIT BE RENTED TO MORE THAN ONE SEPARATE GUEST?
No, holiday homes units need to be leased as whole unit and not as shared bedrooms or separate
beds.
DO I NEED TO INFORM THE BUILDING MANAGEMENT ABOUT MY PERMIT?
Yes, you are advised to inform the building management about your permits and operations.
HOW DO I RENEW A PERMIT?
You can renew the permit two weeks prior to the expiry of the permit by clicking on renew
option for the mentioned unit and follow the registration process
WHAT HAPPENS IF A UNIT PERMIT IS EXPIRED
Once the unit permit is expired the unit will disappear from the operator dashboard and the
property has to be register as a new property.
CAN I CANCEL MY PROPERTY PERMIT
Yes, by clicking on cancel next to the mention property and pay the cancelation fee.
CAN I REGISTER A PROPERTY WHICH ALREADY REGISTED WITH OTHER
OPERATOR
No, unless the permit expires or canceled by the previous operator.
CAN I AMEND THE PERMIT DETAILS ONCE IT IS ISSUED?
Yes by clicking on amend icon next to the property details.
GUEST CHECK-IN & CHECK-OUT ON DTCM’S SYSTEM
DO I NEED THE GUEST DETAILS?
Yes, you are required to fill the guest details for primary and secondary guests
WHAT ARE THE REQUIRED DOCUMENTS TO BE UPLOADED?
Passport copy for all nationalities or National ID for GCC countries.
IS THERE A MINIMUM AGE FOR THE MAIN GUEST?
Main guest has to be at least 18 years old to check in in a holiday home.
WHEN DO I NEED TO REGISTER THE GUEST IN THE SYSTEM?
Guests have to be checked in upon arriving to the property.
DO I NEED TO PROVIDE 24/7 SERVICE FOR THE GUEST?
Yes, operators are require to have a 24/7 emergency number.
IS THE TOURISM DIRHAM FEE APPLICABLE/EXEMPTED FOR PEOPLE OF ANY
SPECIFIC NATIONALITY / OCCUPATION?
The Tourism Dirham fee is applicable on all guests staying in the holiday home regardless of
their nationalities / Occupation.
WHAT DOES THE MESSAGE “UNIT IS OCCUPIED” MEAN?
The “Unit is occupied” message will appear if you attempt to check-in to an already occupied
unit. The system will provide a short-cut link to perform a checking-out activity.
WHAT DOES THE MESSAGE “UNIT ENTERED DOES NOT EXIST IN THE
SYSTEM” MEAN?
This message will appear if you attempt to use a unit that is not registered in the system.
WHEN CAN I USE THE “CHARGE EXTRA DAY FOR EARLY CHECK-IN”
CHECKBOX?
The early check-in option is to be used when the guest is to be charged for an extra night due to
an early check-in; an example of this is if the holiday home’s check-in timing is from 1:00 pm to
2:00 pm and the guest had checked-in before 1:00 am, then the option has to be selected, given
that the operator charged a full night rate for that early check in. if the guest was partially
charged then no Tourism Dirham will be charged.
WHEN CAN I USE THE “CHARGE EXTRA DAY FOR LATE CHECK-OUT”
CHECKBOX?
The Late check-out option is to be used when the guest is to be charged for an extra night due to
a late check-out. For example if the holiday home’s check-out timing is from 12.00 pm to 2:00
pm and the guest had late checked-out at 5:00 pm, they will be charged. Given that the operator
charged a full night rate for that early check in. if the guest was partially charged then no
Tourism Dirham will be charged.
HOW CAN I PERFORM UNIT CHANGE IN THE SYSTEM?
“Unit Change” option is available as part of the check-out screen. The guest will be checked out
as a unit change from the first unit, and normally checked in in the second unit within the same
transaction. Tourism Dirham will be collected for the first consecutive 30 days only starting from
the initial check in.
HOW CAN I “CHECK-OUT” A GUEST THROUGH TOURISM DIRHAM ESYSTEM?
Step 1: Click on “Check-out” for unit number.
Step 2: Specify check-out date, check-out type (normal, cancellation, or unit change)
Step 3: In case of late check, click on “Charge Extra Day for Late Check-out”.
Step 4: Review and submit.
HOW TO PERFORM “CANCELLATION” OF A CHECKED-IN UNIT? WILL THE
TOURISM DIRHAM BE CALCULATED FOR A CANCELLED UNIT?
Cancellation option is available as part of the check-out, you will need to specify the check-out
type as “Cancellation”. In this case, no Tourism Dirham fee will be calculated if the cancellation
is made within the same day. Note that this option should be used in the rare case where the
guest is unsatisfied with the unit they have been checked in. The system will track all
cancellations. All cancellations should be supported by relevant documentation.
CAN I MODIFY THE CHECK-IN/CHECK-OUT RECORDS IN THE SYSTEM?
Any record that was made during the current month can be amended through the amendment
option anytime during the same month or in the first ten days of the next month, after which the
records will be locked for month end. The system will track all the amendments. All
amendments should be supported by relevant documentation.
HOW TO VIEW THE CHECKED-IN DETAILS INCLUDING THE GUEST AND THE
OTHER DETAILS SAVED?
The Checked-in details can be viewed under "Check In" Click the unit number
HOW TO INPUT BACK DATED (HISTORICAL) CHECK-IN / CHECK-OUT
TRANSACTIONS EVEN IF THE UNIT IS CURRENTLY OCCUPIED?
Navigate under “History”. This screen allows entering back dated check in - check out
transactions regardless of whether the unit is occupied or not.
FINANCIALS
WHEN IS THE PAYMENT DUE FOR THE TOURISM DIRHAM FEE?
The operator should pay the total amount due for the current month not later than the 15th of the
following month to avoid fine for late payment.
HOW DOES THE OPERATOR KNOW THE TOTAL TOURISM DIRHAM AMOUNT
TO BE PAID FOR EACH MONTH?
The operator can generate the month end report, which will provide a full list of all transactions
processed during a particular month. The operator can review and amend any changes to the
monthly data between the 1st and the 10th day of the following month. After the 10th day the
system will not allow any modifications to such data and will generate a payment order to the
operator with the Tourism Dirham amount due.
HOW TO CHECK THE TOTAL TOURISM DIRHAM AMOUNT TO BE PAID FOR
EACH MONTH?
To know the total amount for Tourism Dirham follow the steps below.
- Report: HH Payment order
- Select month / year
- Print payment order
HOW CAN MY ESTABLISHMENT PAY THE TOURISM DIRHAM?
The following payment methods are supported by DTCM:
a. Cash or cheque to be directly deposited into a DTCM bank account. All deposits should be as
per the following details:
Bank name: Emirates NBD (Any branch)
Account name: DTCM-Tourism Dirham
Account number (IBAN):AE450260001012049366501
The operator should update the Tourism Dirham e-system (payment confirmation screen).
b. Wire transfer to DTCM bank account as per the above-mentioned details. The holiday home
establishment should update the Tourism Dirham e-system (payment confirmation screen).
Note: Always provide the holiday home establishment license number when making Tourism
Dirham payments.
TOURISM DIRHAM REGULATION
WHAT IS THE TOURISM DIRHAM AMOUNT I MUST PAY?
The Tourism Dirham is based on the unit’s classification, as detailed in the table below:
Tourism Dirham Fees
1 Deluxe Holiday Home 15 (Per occupied Unit per Night (in Dhs)
2 Standard Holiday Home 10 (Per occupied Unit per Night (in Dhs)
HOW IS THE TOURISM DIRHAM CALCULATED?
The Tourism Dirham shall be charged for each occupied bedroom per night, according to the
amount shown in the fee table. Each bedroom incurs a charge, irrespective of the actual number
of guests occupying it.
THE FORMULA FOR CALCULATING THE TOURISM DIRHAM CAN BE
SUMMARIZED AS FOLLOWS.
Tourism Dirham = number of nights x number of bedrooms x Tourism Dirham, as per the unit’s
classification category.
As the Tourism Dirham is calculated for physical occupancy, it will not be collected for noshows, pre-bookings and planned bookings.
WHAT IS THE DEFINITION OF A BEDROOM?
A bedroom is defined as a unit that includes a bed or more. The maids’ room is considered as a
bedroom.
I BOOKED A UNIT WITH ONE BEDROOM AND A LIVING ROOM. WHAT WILL I
BE CHARGED FOR?
This will be charged as one bedroom.
DO I HAVE TO DISPLAY THE TOURISM DIRHAM FEE TO THE GUEST?
Yes. When a receipt, bill, invoice or other document is issued to the guest, the amount of the
Tourism Dirham fee should be clearly shown on such document, as a separate item or charge.
This label of such fee should be “Tourism Dirham”.
Failure to inform the guest of the Tourism Dirham as specified by DTCM, or failure to account
for the Tourism Dirham in the invoices issued to the guest will result in a fine (please refer to the
violation list).
IF I HAVE A GUEST STAYING IN ONE BEDROOM UNIT IN CLASSIFIED AS
DELUXE AT A RATE OFAED 1,200/-, WHAT IS THE TOTAL BILL TO THE
GUEST?
In this case, the total bill will amount to AED 1,215/- (AED 1,200/- unit rate, including Dubai
Municipality fee and Service Charge + AED 15 Tourism Dirham fee).
IS THE TOURISM DIRHAM FEE APPLICABLE FOR COMPLIMENTARY STAYS?
Yes, the Tourism Dirham is applicable to all guests’ stays, even if their accommodation is free of
charge. The same includes, but is not limited to corporate incentives, familiarization trips, loyalty
program redemptions, raffles and vouchers.
IS THE TOURISM DIRHAM FEE APPLICABLE FOR PROMOTIONAL STAYS?
Yes, the Tourism Dirham is applicable to all guests’ stays, even if their accommodation is free of
charge as part of a promotional offer.
MY HOLIDAY HOME ESTABLISHMENT IS PROVIDING AN OFFER “STAY
THREE NIGHTS AND PAY FOR TWO” – HOW WOULD THE TOURISM DIRHAM
BE CALCULATED?
The Tourism Dirham fee will be applicable to all three nights.
IS THE TOURISM DIRHAM FEE APPLICABLE FOR LONG STAYS?
For long stay bookings, the Tourism Dirham will be charged, however only for the first 30
consecutive nights.
In case of unit rented by company/multiple number of guest and the primary guest left while
other guest are going to continue staying, unit to be checked out and new check in for rest of
guest staying.
IS THE TOURISM DIRHAM FEE APPLICABLE FOR SHORT STAYS?
Yes, the Tourism Dirham is applicable for short stays, for example if the guest only stays for two
or three hours and checks-out, the Tourism Dirham will be charged for that day.
THE GUEST HAD UPGRADED FROM ONE BEDROOM TO A TWO BEDROOM
APARTMENT– HOW WOULD TOURISM DIRHAM BE CALCULATED?
Tourism dirham is paid for the first (30) days only, and will be captured as per the guests; stay. If
the stay was in a one bed room for the first 20 days and the guest was moved to a (2) bed rooms
for the next 20 days, he will be charged for the first 20 nights as a one bedroom, in addition to 10
nights in the bed room, and the remaining of the stay is free of Tourism Dirham charges
FOR MONTHLY AND ANNUAL LONG STAY LEASES, DO WE NEED TO WAIT
FOR CHECK-OUT DAY TO REPORT THE CHECK-OUT AND HAVE THE
TOURISM DIRHAM CALCULATED FOR THE SAID PERIOD?
Holiday home establishments should pay their Tourism Dirham dues on a monthly basis. Long
stay contracts need cleared on a monthly basis as well.
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How to avoid fake Airbnb scams
Never pay outside the Airbnb website. First, check the URL to make sure you’re on the real Airbnb site - not a clone page.
Secondly, only pay inside the Airbnb platform. If someone requests you pay via bank transfer, cash or directly into their Paypal account, it’s almost certainly a scam
For interactive 360 Dubai map click here
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Related Pages
The owner must create a profile for the property on Airbnb with a description and photos. Then, the owner has to stay active on the site to answer inquiries.
When a booking is made, the new occupant will have to be given the key and building access cards, and a number to call in case things need fixing.
With every booking, the owner must also take a passport scan from the occupants and send it to the DTCM. A tax from guests also has to be paid to the department.
STEPS TO FOLLOW
Follow this link to the DTCM’s online platform and go through the steps given on the portal. You’ll next have to visit the DTCM in Al Garhoud during business hours on working days. Copy of your Emirates ID is required.
You can then upload your property and relevant documents on the DTCM platform. If you’re a tenant, make sure to get a letter of no-objection from the landlord.
You’ll also need to purchase insurance for your home. You have pay Dh1,520 to activate your account with the DTCM’s online platform. There’s also a Dh300 fee for each bedroom in your property, and a Dh70 management fee.
- The DTCM rules allow only a full home to be rented out.
- Failure to register your properties with the DTCM will leave you liable for a Dh5,000 fine.
- Then, the owner must create a profile for the property on Airbnb with a description and photos. Then, the owner has to stay active on the site to answer enquiries.
- When a booking is made, the new occupant will have to be given the key and building access cards, and a number to call in case things need fixing.
- Make sure to get passport copies of each guest and submit them to the DTCM.
- With every booking, the owner must also take a passport scan from the occupants and send it to the DTCM. A tax from guests also has to be paid to the department.
When you’ve put the property up on Airbnb, just make sure to get passport copies of each guest and submit them to the DTCM. You will also need to pay a tax to the DTCM each month.
Airbnb is regulated in Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah Emirates.
WHERE IN DUBAI CAN A HOLIDAY HOME BE PERMITED?
Holiday Homes may be permitted throughout Dubai including free zones, special development
zones and real Estate communities as determined by DTCM.
TYPES OF HOLIDAY HOMES PROPERTIES
A Holiday Home may be an apartment in a residential or mixed-use building, a town-house or
independent villa but must be a complete unit and not part of a unit.
CATEGORIES OF HOLIDAY HOMES UNITS
Holiday Homes Units are classified into two categories
1- Deluxe
2- Standard
DO I NEED A LICENSE FROM DED?
Yes, Professional Operators’ registration is a two Stages process, the First stage is to issue a
Holiday Homes License from the Department of Economics Development, and the second is to
register in the Holiday homes Online System with DTCM.
WHAT ARE THE REQUIRED DOCUMENTS TO OBTAIN A HOLIDAY HOMES
LICENSE?
For the Document required to obtain a Holiday Homes License Contact DED (Department of
Economics Developments) and they will guide you through the procedure and requirements to
issue a license.
CAN I OPERATE IMMEDIATELY AFTER OBTAINING THE LICENSE?
After obtaining the licenses you are required to register in DTCM Holiday Home system and
issue permits for the property/ies you manage before you start operating the Units.
HOW CAN I REGISTER WITH MY COMPANY WITH DTCM
Step one: go to http://hh.dtcm.gov.ae/holidayhomes , click on register a new operator, and fill
your establishment details.
Step Two: Fill the mangers details
Step Three: Attach a copy of trade license
You will be receiving an email from DTCM activating your account
HOW DO I ISSUE A PERMIT
Once your account is activated you can log in to the holiday homes system and apply for a
permit through the following steps:
1- Click on add unit.
2- Fill the property details form.
3- Attach the required documents
4- Submit the application and wait for DTCM Approval.
5- Once your application is approved you are required to classify the unit and pay for the
permit.
WHAT ARE THE REQUIRED DOCUMENTS FOR THE HOLIDAY HOMES
PERMIT?
The Documents required for each unit permit are
1. Unit Title Deed.
2. Owner’s Passport Copy/ trade license and authorized person passport copy for cooperate
owners.
3. Authorization Letter as per DTCM Template.
4. Recent DEWA bill for the mentioned unit.
HOW DO I CLASSIFY MY UNIT?
There are two categories for Holiday Homes, Standard and Deluxe. As per your selection in the
initial step manger are required to submit a self-assessment form for the unit classification.
DOES DTCM INSPECT THE PROPERTY FOR THE CLASSIFICATION?
No, in Holiday Homes we follow a self-assessment approach, where managers will go through a
list of the criteria and classify the units they operate.
HOW DO I KNOW WHY WAS MY APPLICATION REJECTED
When the application is rejected DTCM adds a comment to the rejected application, you can
view the comments by:
1- Click on the application number.
2- Go to related records,
3- select the last record
4- click view
5- finally click on processing status
HOW TO PRINT THE PAYMENT ORDER
1- Click on the application No.
2- Go to related records,
3- Click View last classification record
4- Go the fees and print the Payment Order
HOW CAN I PAY THE PERMIT FEES
There are two payment options
- Bank transfer/ deposited to DTCM Account.
- In DTCM by Cash / company cheque.
HOW TO CONFIRM THE PAYMENT?
If the payment was done in DTCM cashier the payment will be confirmed automatically.
If the payment was done through bank transfer/ deposit mangers are required to confirm the
payment;
1- Click on confirm payment next to the required unit
2- Enter the payment details
a. Payment type: (bank transfer)
3- Upload the bank receipt.
4- Confirmation will take within 2 working days.
HOW CAN I PRINT THE UNIT PERMIT?
Click on the Record ID for the Unit and you will find the print option.
DO I NEED TO PAY 10% DUBAI MUNICIPALITY FEES?
No Dubai Municipality fees won’t be applicable for Holiday Homes units.
HOW CAN I GET THE LIST OF HOLIDAY HOMES OPERATORS?
You can get the list by calling the customer service department on 600 555559 or by Emailing
info@visitdubai.ae
IS THERE A FORMAT FOR THE CONTRACT BETWEEN THE HOLIDAY HOMES
OPERATOR AND THE HOME OWNER?
No, the contract can be designed by the operator and agreed upon by both parties.
IS THERE IS A MINIMUM NUMBER OF UNITS?
There is no minimum units required from DTCM.
HOW CAN I CREATE ACCOUNTS FOR MY STAFF?
On DTCM Holiday Homes System, under Users tab you can click on add Admin and create
accounts for your team
HOW CAN I CREATE ACCOUNTS FOR A NEW MANGER?
On DTCM Holiday Homes System, under Users tab you can click on add Manger and create
accounts for your team
Note: the manager must be in the trade license of the operator thus an update trade license is
required along with the passport copy.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN MANGER AND ADMIN?
Admin has access to check-in and check-out only. While mangers can check-in outs, add/ delete
unit and generate operational reports.
HOLIDAY HOMES INDIVIDUAL OPERATORS
DO I NEED A LICENSE FROM DED?
No, all that is required is to register on DTCM Holiday Homes system.
WHAT ARE THE REQUIRED DOCUMENTS TO REGISTER ON THE SYSTEM?
The documents required is the Passport or Emirates ID.
HOW CAREGISTER AS OPERATOR IN DTCM
Step one: go to (https://hh.dtcm.gov.ae/holidayhomes), click on register a new operator.
Step two: enter your contact information.
Step three: upload your emirates ID or Passport copy.
- Step Four: pay the system registration fees and activate your account notification email
will be sent with the credential, where you will need to visit DTCM for the activation and
payments
WHAT ARE THE REQUIRED DOCUMENTS FOR THE HOLIDAY HOMES
PERMIT?
The Documents required for each unit
1. Unit Title Deed.
1. Dewa Bill (under the owner name)
For tenants who have the approval of their landlord to operate the home as a Holiday home the
following documents are required in addition:
1. Lease Agreement with subleasing clause
2. No Objection Certificate from Landlord (DTCM Template- check appx.)
3. Title deed
4. Owner passport copy or Emirates ID.
5. Dewa Bill ( UNDER owner or ternate name)
HOW DO I CLASSIFY MY UNIT?
There are two categories for Holiday Homes, Standard and Deluxe. As per your selection in the
initial step manager are required to submit a self-assessment form for the unit classification.
DOES DTCM INSPUCT THE PROPERTY FOR THE CLASSIFICATION?
No, in Holiday Homes we follow a self-assessment Method, where Home owner will go through
a list of the criteria and classify the units the units.
HOW DO I KNOW WHY WAS MY APPLICATION REJECTED
When the application is rejected DTCM adds a comment to the rejected application, you can
view by:
1- Click on the application
2- Go to processing status
3- Click on the comments and Expand to see the rejection comments
HOW TO PRINT THE PAYMENT ORDER
1- Click on the application No.
2- Go to related records,
3- Click View last classification record
4- Go the fees and print the Payment Order
HOW CAN I PAY THE PERMIT FEES
There are two payment options
Bank transfer/ deposited to DTCM Account.
Bank name: Dubai Islamic Bank (Dubai Main Branch)
Account name: GOVT. OF DUBAI – DTCM
Account number: 001520005097601
Account number (IBAN): AE430240001520005097601
In DTCM by Cash / company cheque.
HOW TO CONFIRM THE PAYMENT?
If the payment was done in DTCM cashier the payment will be confirmed automatically.
If the payment was done through bank transfer/ deposit mangers are required to confirm the
payment;
1- Click on confirm payment next to the required unit
2- Enter the payment details
a. payment type: (Bank Transfer)
3- Upload the bank receipt.
4- Confirmation will take within 2 working days.
Log in the system and enter the enter details.
HOW CAN I PRINT THE UNIT PERMIT?
Click on the Record ID for the Unit and you will find the print option.
1. Click on the unit number next to the required unit
2. Go to the record details
3. Under the More Detail click on Permit and then print.
DO I NEED TO PAY 10% DUBAI MUNICIPALITY FEES?
No Dubai Municipality fees won’t be applicable for Holiday Homes units.
OPERATIONS
DO I NEED INSURANCE FOR THE UNITS?
Yes, operator are required to have insurance policies covering the risk that may occur to guest,
the property and building.
CAN I ADVERTISE ON ONLINE PLATFORMS?
You can use any marketing channel to advertise your unit(s) after obtaining a holiday home
permit for the unit.
CAN I SHARE THE HOLIDAY HOMES UNIT WITH MY GUEST?
No, a holiday home unit should be rented as a whole unit and can’t be shared with the owner or
another guest.
CAN A UNIT BE RENTED TO MORE THAN ONE SEPARATE GUEST?
No, holiday homes units need to be leased as whole unit and not as shared bedrooms or separate
beds.
DO I NEED TO INFORM THE BUILDING MANAGEMENT ABOUT MY PERMIT?
Yes, you are advised to inform the building management about your permits and operations.
HOW DO I RENEW A PERMIT?
You can renew the permit two weeks prior to the expiry of the permit by clicking on renew
option for the mentioned unit and follow the registration process
WHAT HAPPENS IF A UNIT PERMIT IS EXPIRED
Once the unit permit is expired the unit will disappear from the operator dashboard and the
property has to be register as a new property.
CAN I CANCEL MY PROPERTY PERMIT
Yes, by clicking on cancel next to the mention property and pay the cancelation fee.
CAN I REGISTER A PROPERTY WHICH ALREADY REGISTED WITH OTHER
OPERATOR
No, unless the permit expires or canceled by the previous operator.
CAN I AMEND THE PERMIT DETAILS ONCE IT IS ISSUED?
Yes by clicking on amend icon next to the property details.
GUEST CHECK-IN & CHECK-OUT ON DTCM’S SYSTEM
DO I NEED THE GUEST DETAILS?
Yes, you are required to fill the guest details for primary and secondary guests
WHAT ARE THE REQUIRED DOCUMENTS TO BE UPLOADED?
Passport copy for all nationalities or National ID for GCC countries.
IS THERE A MINIMUM AGE FOR THE MAIN GUEST?
Main guest has to be at least 18 years old to check in in a holiday home.
WHEN DO I NEED TO REGISTER THE GUEST IN THE SYSTEM?
Guests have to be checked in upon arriving to the property.
DO I NEED TO PROVIDE 24/7 SERVICE FOR THE GUEST?
Yes, operators are require to have a 24/7 emergency number.
IS THE TOURISM DIRHAM FEE APPLICABLE/EXEMPTED FOR PEOPLE OF ANY
SPECIFIC NATIONALITY / OCCUPATION?
The Tourism Dirham fee is applicable on all guests staying in the holiday home regardless of
their nationalities / Occupation.
WHAT DOES THE MESSAGE “UNIT IS OCCUPIED” MEAN?
The “Unit is occupied” message will appear if you attempt to check-in to an already occupied
unit. The system will provide a short-cut link to perform a checking-out activity.
WHAT DOES THE MESSAGE “UNIT ENTERED DOES NOT EXIST IN THE
SYSTEM” MEAN?
This message will appear if you attempt to use a unit that is not registered in the system.
WHEN CAN I USE THE “CHARGE EXTRA DAY FOR EARLY CHECK-IN”
CHECKBOX?
The early check-in option is to be used when the guest is to be charged for an extra night due to
an early check-in; an example of this is if the holiday home’s check-in timing is from 1:00 pm to
2:00 pm and the guest had checked-in before 1:00 am, then the option has to be selected, given
that the operator charged a full night rate for that early check in. if the guest was partially
charged then no Tourism Dirham will be charged.
WHEN CAN I USE THE “CHARGE EXTRA DAY FOR LATE CHECK-OUT”
CHECKBOX?
The Late check-out option is to be used when the guest is to be charged for an extra night due to
a late check-out. For example if the holiday home’s check-out timing is from 12.00 pm to 2:00
pm and the guest had late checked-out at 5:00 pm, they will be charged. Given that the operator
charged a full night rate for that early check in. if the guest was partially charged then no
Tourism Dirham will be charged.
HOW CAN I PERFORM UNIT CHANGE IN THE SYSTEM?
“Unit Change” option is available as part of the check-out screen. The guest will be checked out
as a unit change from the first unit, and normally checked in in the second unit within the same
transaction. Tourism Dirham will be collected for the first consecutive 30 days only starting from
the initial check in.
HOW CAN I “CHECK-OUT” A GUEST THROUGH TOURISM DIRHAM ESYSTEM?
Step 1: Click on “Check-out” for unit number.
Step 2: Specify check-out date, check-out type (normal, cancellation, or unit change)
Step 3: In case of late check, click on “Charge Extra Day for Late Check-out”.
Step 4: Review and submit.
HOW TO PERFORM “CANCELLATION” OF A CHECKED-IN UNIT? WILL THE
TOURISM DIRHAM BE CALCULATED FOR A CANCELLED UNIT?
Cancellation option is available as part of the check-out, you will need to specify the check-out
type as “Cancellation”. In this case, no Tourism Dirham fee will be calculated if the cancellation
is made within the same day. Note that this option should be used in the rare case where the
guest is unsatisfied with the unit they have been checked in. The system will track all
cancellations. All cancellations should be supported by relevant documentation.
CAN I MODIFY THE CHECK-IN/CHECK-OUT RECORDS IN THE SYSTEM?
Any record that was made during the current month can be amended through the amendment
option anytime during the same month or in the first ten days of the next month, after which the
records will be locked for month end. The system will track all the amendments. All
amendments should be supported by relevant documentation.
HOW TO VIEW THE CHECKED-IN DETAILS INCLUDING THE GUEST AND THE
OTHER DETAILS SAVED?
The Checked-in details can be viewed under "Check In" Click the unit number
HOW TO INPUT BACK DATED (HISTORICAL) CHECK-IN / CHECK-OUT
TRANSACTIONS EVEN IF THE UNIT IS CURRENTLY OCCUPIED?
Navigate under “History”. This screen allows entering back dated check in - check out
transactions regardless of whether the unit is occupied or not.
FINANCIALS
WHEN IS THE PAYMENT DUE FOR THE TOURISM DIRHAM FEE?
The operator should pay the total amount due for the current month not later than the 15th of the
following month to avoid fine for late payment.
HOW DOES THE OPERATOR KNOW THE TOTAL TOURISM DIRHAM AMOUNT
TO BE PAID FOR EACH MONTH?
The operator can generate the month end report, which will provide a full list of all transactions
processed during a particular month. The operator can review and amend any changes to the
monthly data between the 1st and the 10th day of the following month. After the 10th day the
system will not allow any modifications to such data and will generate a payment order to the
operator with the Tourism Dirham amount due.
HOW TO CHECK THE TOTAL TOURISM DIRHAM AMOUNT TO BE PAID FOR
EACH MONTH?
To know the total amount for Tourism Dirham follow the steps below.
- Report: HH Payment order
- Select month / year
- Print payment order
HOW CAN MY ESTABLISHMENT PAY THE TOURISM DIRHAM?
The following payment methods are supported by DTCM:
a. Cash or cheque to be directly deposited into a DTCM bank account. All deposits should be as
per the following details:
Bank name: Emirates NBD (Any branch)
Account name: DTCM-Tourism Dirham
Account number (IBAN):AE450260001012049366501
The operator should update the Tourism Dirham e-system (payment confirmation screen).
b. Wire transfer to DTCM bank account as per the above-mentioned details. The holiday home
establishment should update the Tourism Dirham e-system (payment confirmation screen).
Note: Always provide the holiday home establishment license number when making Tourism
Dirham payments.
TOURISM DIRHAM REGULATION
WHAT IS THE TOURISM DIRHAM AMOUNT I MUST PAY?
The Tourism Dirham is based on the unit’s classification, as detailed in the table below:
Tourism Dirham Fees
1 Deluxe Holiday Home 15 (Per occupied Unit per Night (in Dhs)
2 Standard Holiday Home 10 (Per occupied Unit per Night (in Dhs)
HOW IS THE TOURISM DIRHAM CALCULATED?
The Tourism Dirham shall be charged for each occupied bedroom per night, according to the
amount shown in the fee table. Each bedroom incurs a charge, irrespective of the actual number
of guests occupying it.
THE FORMULA FOR CALCULATING THE TOURISM DIRHAM CAN BE
SUMMARIZED AS FOLLOWS.
Tourism Dirham = number of nights x number of bedrooms x Tourism Dirham, as per the unit’s
classification category.
As the Tourism Dirham is calculated for physical occupancy, it will not be collected for noshows, pre-bookings and planned bookings.
WHAT IS THE DEFINITION OF A BEDROOM?
A bedroom is defined as a unit that includes a bed or more. The maids’ room is considered as a
bedroom.
I BOOKED A UNIT WITH ONE BEDROOM AND A LIVING ROOM. WHAT WILL I
BE CHARGED FOR?
This will be charged as one bedroom.
DO I HAVE TO DISPLAY THE TOURISM DIRHAM FEE TO THE GUEST?
Yes. When a receipt, bill, invoice or other document is issued to the guest, the amount of the
Tourism Dirham fee should be clearly shown on such document, as a separate item or charge.
This label of such fee should be “Tourism Dirham”.
Failure to inform the guest of the Tourism Dirham as specified by DTCM, or failure to account
for the Tourism Dirham in the invoices issued to the guest will result in a fine (please refer to the
violation list).
IF I HAVE A GUEST STAYING IN ONE BEDROOM UNIT IN CLASSIFIED AS
DELUXE AT A RATE OFAED 1,200/-, WHAT IS THE TOTAL BILL TO THE
GUEST?
In this case, the total bill will amount to AED 1,215/- (AED 1,200/- unit rate, including Dubai
Municipality fee and Service Charge + AED 15 Tourism Dirham fee).
IS THE TOURISM DIRHAM FEE APPLICABLE FOR COMPLIMENTARY STAYS?
Yes, the Tourism Dirham is applicable to all guests’ stays, even if their accommodation is free of
charge. The same includes, but is not limited to corporate incentives, familiarization trips, loyalty
program redemptions, raffles and vouchers.
IS THE TOURISM DIRHAM FEE APPLICABLE FOR PROMOTIONAL STAYS?
Yes, the Tourism Dirham is applicable to all guests’ stays, even if their accommodation is free of
charge as part of a promotional offer.
MY HOLIDAY HOME ESTABLISHMENT IS PROVIDING AN OFFER “STAY
THREE NIGHTS AND PAY FOR TWO” – HOW WOULD THE TOURISM DIRHAM
BE CALCULATED?
The Tourism Dirham fee will be applicable to all three nights.
IS THE TOURISM DIRHAM FEE APPLICABLE FOR LONG STAYS?
For long stay bookings, the Tourism Dirham will be charged, however only for the first 30
consecutive nights.
In case of unit rented by company/multiple number of guest and the primary guest left while
other guest are going to continue staying, unit to be checked out and new check in for rest of
guest staying.
IS THE TOURISM DIRHAM FEE APPLICABLE FOR SHORT STAYS?
Yes, the Tourism Dirham is applicable for short stays, for example if the guest only stays for two
or three hours and checks-out, the Tourism Dirham will be charged for that day.
THE GUEST HAD UPGRADED FROM ONE BEDROOM TO A TWO BEDROOM
APARTMENT– HOW WOULD TOURISM DIRHAM BE CALCULATED?
Tourism dirham is paid for the first (30) days only, and will be captured as per the guests; stay. If
the stay was in a one bed room for the first 20 days and the guest was moved to a (2) bed rooms
for the next 20 days, he will be charged for the first 20 nights as a one bedroom, in addition to 10
nights in the bed room, and the remaining of the stay is free of Tourism Dirham charges
FOR MONTHLY AND ANNUAL LONG STAY LEASES, DO WE NEED TO WAIT
FOR CHECK-OUT DAY TO REPORT THE CHECK-OUT AND HAVE THE
TOURISM DIRHAM CALCULATED FOR THE SAID PERIOD?
Holiday home establishments should pay their Tourism Dirham dues on a monthly basis. Long
stay contracts need cleared on a monthly basis as well.
-------------------------------------------------------------
How to avoid fake Airbnb scams
Never pay outside the Airbnb website. First, check the URL to make sure you’re on the real Airbnb site - not a clone page.
Secondly, only pay inside the Airbnb platform. If someone requests you pay via bank transfer, cash or directly into their Paypal account, it’s almost certainly a scam
For interactive 360 Dubai map click here
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