Looking to start an event management business in Dubai but unsure of the process? This guide provides everything you need to know to easily obtain an event management license in Dubai. Dubai has become a hub for global events, attracting investors due to its thriving events sector. As the industry continues to grow, projected to boost the economy by over USD 3.3 billion through events at the Dubai World Trade Center, there’s no better time to enter this market.
In this article, we will cover the step-by-step process, costs, benefits, and requirements for setting up an event management company in Dubai.
The Growing Event Management Industry in Dubai
Dubai is known for its grand events, with the event management market valued at DHS 165.15 million, expanding annually at a rate of over 25%. The city’s strategic location and strong economic framework make it a prime spot for event businesses, reflecting the region’s geopolitical, commercial, and socio-cultural values.
How to Start an Event Management Company in Dubai: Step-by-Step Guide
To start your event management business in Dubai, you must follow certain guidelines and obtain the necessary licenses. Here’s a simplified process to get started:
1. Decide Your Business Activities
The first step is to outline the specific activities your event management company will offer. The license allows for a wide range of activities like event marketing, hospitality, and promotions, but it’s essential to clearly define them. Failure to do so could result in fines from regulatory authorities.
2. Choose a Company Name
Your company name must comply with UAE’s naming conventions. Ensure the name is unique, free from abbreviations, and doesn’t include any offensive or blasphemous language. Full names should be used, avoiding initials or shortened forms.
3. Select the Business Jurisdiction
Dubai offers two main jurisdictions for business setup:
- Free Zone: Allows for 100% foreign ownership and offers tax benefits.
- Mainland: Enables you to trade directly within the UAE market.
Choosing the right jurisdiction is crucial as it impacts your business operations and costs.
4. Apply for the Event Management License
The Department of Economic Development (DED) handles licensing for event management companies in Dubai. You need to submit an application form along with the required documents and passport-sized photos. Ensure that all documents are complete and accurate to avoid any delays.
5. Visa Applications and Bank Account
After receiving your license, you’ll need to:
- Open a corporate bank account.
- Apply for visas for yourself, business partners, and staff. The number of visas you can apply for depends on the size and structure of your company.
Event Management License Cost in Dubai
The cost for an event management license in Dubai starts at AED 15,000, depending on the size and structure of your business. Below is a detailed breakdown of the associated fees:
| Fee Details | Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Initial Approval | 120 |
| Trade Name Registration | 620 |
| Tasheel Local Service Agent | 350 |
| Tasheel Pre-Approval | 345 |
| Event License | 6,960 |
| Foreign Trade | 2,000 |
| Corporate PRO and Advisory | 10,000 |
| Local Agent Fees | 6,000 |
| Total License Cost | 26,395 AED |
For more specific cost details, you can consult one of our company formation experts.
Benefits of Starting an Event Management Business in Dubai
Starting an event management company in Dubai comes with several advantages:
1. Ease of Setup
Setting up an event management business in Dubai is straightforward and efficient. You can complete the process within a day, and it doesn’t require high upfront investments.
2. 100% Income Repatriation
One of the biggest advantages of doing business in Dubai is that you can repatriate 100% of your profits. Additionally, there are no personal or corporate taxes in the UAE.
3. Diverse Business Opportunities
Dubai hosts major events year-round, offering countless opportunities for event planners. The city is a hotspot for corporate events, festivals, and weddings.
4. Multiple Jurisdiction Options
You can choose between Free Zone and Mainland jurisdictions, depending on your business needs.
5. Low Financial Risk
Starting an event management business in Dubai requires minimal initial investment, and operational costs, such as office space and equipment, are also low.
Requirements for an Event Management License in Dubai
To apply for an event management license, you’ll need to provide the following documents:
- A completed visa application.
- Three trade name options.
- A No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your current sponsor.
- Two passport-sized photos.
- Passport copies of the business owner and all partners.
Activities Allowed with an Event Management License
With an event management license in Dubai, you can perform the following activities:
- Sell tickets for events.
- Organize product launches, weddings, conferences, and seminars.
- Collaborate with suppliers and dealers.
- Manage event marketing and promotions.
Certain activities, like import/export or construction work, require additional permits.
How Bizinvestfirm Can Help
At Bizinvestfirm, we specialize in helping entrepreneurs set up their businesses in Dubai. Our experienced consultants provide support in business formation, financial advisory, and legal compliance, ensuring a seamless experience from the initial setup to execution.
