Dubai’s iconic skyline and luxurious experiences attract visitors globally. Over the past few years, the city has continued to grow in popularity. Due to these reasons, the demand for stay options like Airbnb properties, has also shot up to a great extent.
Dubai is an ideal destination to start an Airbnb business to date. To prove this, we worked on an article. In this article, we give you insights on how to launch a successful Airbnb business in Dubai.
This guide is all about:
- How to start an Airbnb business?
- Legal and licensing requirements
- Steps to set up your property, and
- Financial management tips.
Without wasting any minute, explore these details with us!
Understanding the Airbnb Market
In Dubai, Airbnb is a growing industry with close to 45,000 listings. Dubai is the most profitable city to start an Airbnb business as per the study conduct. The average daily rate in Dubai is $300 for a studio apartment. Further, Airbnb owners can get a greater return on investment and earn their money back in just 8 months. This is accounted as the fastest in the world.
Additionally, utilize tools like AirDNA to analyze:
—> Average nightly rates
—> Occupancy rates, and
—> Pricing trends for Airbnb properties in various neighborhoods.
This approach will help you identify prime locations for your Airbnb business. While ensuring you cater to your target audience’s preferences.
How to Start an Airbnb Business in Dubai?
This is how you can start your Airbnb business in Dubai, UAE. We have mentioned all the steps to help you understand what you need to begin:
- Select Company Name
- Choose Business Activity and Jurisdiction
- Submit your Trade License Application
- Apply for Visa
- Obtain a Trade License
- Open a Business Bank Account
- Register your Property
It is advisable to conduct research to get an understanding of the market before starting an Airbnb business. Start by analyzing the demand for short-term rental properties in Dubai. For this, take into account factors such as peak travel seasons, tourist destinations, and the preferences of visitors.
Licensing Requirements for Dubai Airbnb Business
Fulfill some legal requirements and obtain a specific license to set up an Airbnb business. Get started to operate seamlessly in Dubai. Let’s look at them:
Airbnb Business Registration
Register your business with the Dubai Economy and Tourism to legally operate an Airbnb or any business in Dubai. Don’t think about avoiding this step as it ensures that your business complies with local regulations. A way to safeguard the interests of hosts and guests.
Obtain the Licenses
After registration, now apply for the mandatory approvals from the DET department portals. Just submit the required documents and pay a fee at the Dubai Tourism Office. You will become a certified vacation home Airbnb provider after receiving approval.
Hosting Permit
Obtain a hosting permit after getting approved. For this, visit DET’s online portal and click on the ‘Add Unit’ option. Here, you’ll see a form. Fill out the form for the property data. After submission, wait for approval from DET. You’ll receive an approval certificate that must be displayed on the property.
Documents Needed for Airbnb Business Dubai
The following documents are a must to have to become an Airbnb host in Dubai:
- Your Emirates ID card and passport copy
- Proof of Ejari registration
- A landlord’s statement of no objections Title deed
- Copy of owner’s passport or Emirates ID
- A current DEWA bill-not older than 3 months
- Airbnb Business License
Setting up an Airbnb Business Simplified
Starting an Airbnb business in Dubai involves several steps. For instance, prepare your property to provide an exceptional experience to your guests. However, ensure the property complies with Dubai’s regulations. Meet the safety and quality standards set by the DET before listing your property.
Safety and quality standards
The DET has established strict guidelines for home rentals. The property must adhere to these guidelines. These may include property size, furnishing requirements, and basic amenities. These standards are essential. It helps maintain a safe living environment for your guests. Also, helps your business in the long run.
Preparing the property
Creating an inviting and welcoming atmosphere for your guests is another important thing. Think bigger than basic amenities and furniture. For this, invest in high-quality furnishings, decor, and amenities. This way, you can capture the attention of your target audience.
Additionally, all these things must align with your guests’ preferences. This in turn ensures the best customer service experience. Consider adding personal touches, like locally sourced artwork or a welcome basket. They create a huge impression on the right user.
Creating Airbnb listings
The better you show the more you will get benefitted. Try to give your potential guests the first impression of your property the best. They will see your property first through the Airbnb listing you post. So, it must look appealing and attractive.
You can hire a professional photographer to capture high-quality images. The pictures showcase the best features and areas of your property.
Costs of Starting an Airbnb Business in Dubai
Start an Airbnb business in Dubai? Then, you must ensure effective financial management from the beginning. We are going to unwrap them one by one.
Initial Start-up Costs
Budgeting beforehand is essential and start it well before you launch your Airbnb business. Allocate a budget for the initial setup costs. These costs include:
—> Licences and permits
—> Furnishing and decorating your property
—> Investing in professional photography, and
—> Covering any legal or administrative fees.
Monitoring income and expenses
Implement financial tracking systems right after you start generating sales. This way, you monitor your income and expenses to make informed business decisions.
Hard for you to do? Getting a financial management consultant can take a lot of stress away from you.
Fulfilling Tax obligations
In Dubai, Airbnb hosts are subject to various tax regulations. These are the Tourism Dirham fee and Value Added Tax (VAT). Consult with a professional accountant or corporate tax advisor to comply with all relevant tax obligations. In case of non-compliance to your tax obligations can result in penalties or fines.
Cost breakdown for Starting an Airbnb Business in Dubai
Expense Category | Estimated Cost (AED) | Estimated Cost (USD) | Notes |
Licensing and Regulations | AED 16,896 | $4,600 | Cost of Tourism License from Dubai Economic Department (DET) |
Property Setup and Amenities | AED 202,014 – AED 275,474 | $55,000 – $75,000 | Furnishing, decor, rent, office setup, essential amenities |
Marketing and Promotion | AED 18,365 (starting) | $5,000/month | Professional photography, and online advertising, depending on the budget |
Platform Fees | Around 3% of booking subtotal | Varies | Airbnb service fees typically around 3% |
Utilities and Maintenance | AED 1,102 – AED 2,572 | $300 – $700/month | Electricity, water, internet, and regular maintenance |
Legal and Administrative | AED 1,102 – AED 2,572 | $100 – $300 | Good Conduct Certificate from Dubai Police |
Ongoing Expenses | AED 735 – AED 1,836 | $200 – $500/month | Cleaning and maintenance services |
Additional Costs | Varies | Varies | Visa requirements, other operational costs |
Note:
- These are estimated costs, and the actual expenses may vary based on factors such as property size, location, staff requirements, and the scale of operations.
- Consulting with professional advisors can help you develop a more tailored budget for your specific Airbnb business in Dubai.
Hire Connect Business Center to Start Your Business Today
Looking to start your Airbnb business, there’s no better option than Connect Business Center. The team will take the lead, from obtaining the necessary licenses to setting up your brand-new Airbnb business.
We understand how the Airbnb business sells well, thus you’ll get the maximum benefit out of your business. Let professionals handle setting up your business while you take care to fulfill other business needs!