What is a DTCM Holiday Home License?
The Holiday Home License is a permit issued by the DTCM that allows owners to let their property for short periods (less than one year) to tourists and business travellers. The licence is mandatory for every unit listed on platforms such as Airbnb, Booking.com or VRBO.
The DTCM regulates quality requirements, safety standards and price transparency for holiday homes in Dubai. Each registered property receives a unique permit number that must be displayed in all advertisements. The DTCM conducts regular checks and may carry out unannounced inspections.
The application process step by step
Step 1: Register an account on the DTCM Holiday Homes Portal (holiday.dtcm.ae). You will need your passport, Emirates ID (or a copy) and proof of ownership (Title Deed).
Step 2: Engage a DTCM-registered Holiday Home Operator or register as an operator yourself. Operating independently requires a separate trade license; most owners therefore appoint an operator.
Step 3: Submit the application with the following documents: Title Deed, NOC from the Owners Association, owner's passport, DEWA account in the owner's name and professional photographs of the property.
Step 4: Upon approval, you pay the licence fees. The DTCM issues the permit number within 5–10 working days.
Step 5: Publish your property on approved platforms with the permit number clearly displayed.
Cost of the Holiday Home License
The cost of a DTCM Holiday Home License is AED 1,520 per year for the licence itself, plus AED 320 per unit per year. For an owner with one apartment, this amounts to AED 1,840 per year.
In addition, Tourism Dirham tax applies: AED 10–20 per room per night, depending on the classification of your property (standard or deluxe). This tax is passed on to the guest and remitted to the DTCM monthly.
Also account for the cost of the NOC from your Owners Association (AED 500–2,000 depending on the community) and any operator fees (typically 18–25% of rental income).
Renewal and compliance
The Holiday Home License must be renewed annually. Renewal can be completed online via the DTCM portal and costs the same as the initial application. Begin the renewal at least 30 days before the expiry date to avoid interruptions.
Compliance requirements include: a valid fire safety certificate, working smoke detectors and a fire extinguisher, a clean and well-maintained property in line with DTCM standards, and the keeping of a guest register. The DTCM may carry out unannounced inspections.
For violations, the DTCM imposes fines ranging from AED 5,000 for first offences to AED 200,000 for repeated non-compliance or letting without a licence.
Augusta Properties as your Holiday Home Operator
As a RERA-registered brokerage (licence 52101), we manage the complete DTCM application, operational management and compliance for your holiday home. We handle the documentation, the application, professional photography and the listing on all relevant platforms.
Our service includes monthly DTCM reporting, Tourism Dirham remittance, guest registration and liaison with the DTCM during inspections. There is nothing for you to worry about. We act as your local partner.