Airbnb Dubai requirements and fees (DET)

Once upon a time, Dubai's short-term rental market was dominated solely by well-known hotel chains — but times have changed. With the rise of platforms like Airbnb, homeowners and tenants can now obtain a holiday home license to offer their properties for profitable guest accommodations.

Nonetheless, this process is not straightforward: it requires compiling several necessary documents, registering with the DET, and paying monthly fees. Here’s a guide on how to fulfill the legal requirements to list your property on Airbnb in Dubai.

What is the DET?

The DET, previously known as the DTCM, is the Department of Economy and Tourism in Dubai. It serves as the main authority overseeing short-term property rentals within the city. This department is responsible for issuing permits for events, holiday homes, and tour guides, in addition to classifying hotels.

To lease your property as a holiday home, you must first submit all necessary documentation to the DET for approval. Permits are granted annually and must be renewed each year.

A Guide to Obtaining Your Holiday Home License in Dubai for Airbnb

To begin leasing your property, you must obtain a holiday home permit. This certification confirms that your property complies with the technical specifications and legal requirements for short-term rentals.
The process starts with the host—whether a holiday home operator, homeowner, or tenant—submitting an application to the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) for processing and approval.
First, you should create an account on the online portal. Next, add your property and provide the required details, including the unit type, number of bedrooms, and location. Additionally, you must submit copies of the necessary documentation, which includes:
- The title deed or sales purchase agreement along with the payment completion certificate
- A signed passport or Emirates ID of the landlord
- A property management letter
- A recent Dubai Electricity & Water Authority (DEWA) bill
- If the landlord is a company: the trade license and Emirates ID or passport of the authorized signatory
- If the host is a tenant: the tenancy contract
The DET will review your application, typically within one business day. If approved, you will receive email confirmation, and your unit will be added to your portal dashboard.
Subsequently, you must self-classify your property based on the facilities it offers, following the guidelines outlined in the Holiday Home Regulation Guide. Additionally, you will need to pay the applicable fees: the DET imposes a one-time application fee of AED 1,500, along with charges of AED 10 for knowledge and AED 10 for innovation.

How to Ensure Full Compliance for Your Listing

As a permit holder, it is your responsibility to ensure that your property complies with Dubai’s regulations concerning short-term rentals, which are subject to regular inspections by the Department of Tourism (DET).

To maintain compliance, your property must meet the technical requirements and be equipped with the necessary fittings outlined in the Holiday Home Regulation Guide. Additionally, you are required to pay the Tourism Dirham fees to the DET monthly, based on your property's occupancy, and to submit copies of guest passports upon check-in.

While these requirements may seem daunting, adherence to the DET’s stringent standards is essential if you wish to list your property independently. This is where Kosynest can assist you. Our dedicated support teams are committed to ensuring that your property meets all necessary guidelines while managing the entire process of renting your holiday home. Our aim is to help you maximize profits while minimizing hassle.

For a precise estimate of the potential revenue your property could generate, we encourage you to contact us.