Dubai Holiday Home Licence — The DET Permit Explained for Owners

Dubai's short-let market is one of the world's largest, and the regulatory framework has matured into a clear permitting system. Every short-let apartment requires a holiday home permit from the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). Here's how it works.

Eligibility

Owners (individuals or companies) and licensed operators can apply. The property must be your owned or long-leased residential unit, with title deed or tenancy contract documentation. Some buildings require OA NOC; most do not.

Classification tiers

DET classifies units into Standard, Deluxe and Luxury based on furnishing, amenities and location. Classification drives the nightly rate ceiling and the marketing positioning allowed. Most Downtown, Marina and Palm Jumeirah inventory qualifies for Deluxe or Luxury.

Application process

1. Submit title deed / tenancy contract + Emirates ID
2. Property inspection by DET-approved inspector — typically 7–10 days
3. Classification assigned (Standard / Deluxe / Luxury)
4. Permit issued — typically 14–21 days from application
5. Permit valid for 12 months, renewable annually

Costs

Permit fees vary by classification tier and unit size. Expect: AED 1,500–2,500 for a Standard 1-bedroom; AED 2,000–3,500 for a Deluxe 2-bedroom; AED 3,000–5,000 for a Luxury 3+ bedroom. Add inspection fees (~AED 500) and any building NOC costs.

Tourism Dirham

Every booking incurs Tourism Dirham — AED 10–20 per night depending on classification. The OTA or your management company collects it from the guest at booking; it's then remitted to DET as part of monthly compliance.

Renewal

Annual renewal requires updated documentation, paid fee and confirmation of no significant changes. Renewals are typically faster than initial applications (5–7 days). Lapsed permits trigger a fine and the property can't be marketed for short-let until renewed.

How property managers handle the licence

Rovostays and similar full-service operators file the DET permit on behalf of the owner as part of the 7-day onboarding. Permit, classification, inspection, Tourism Dirham monthly remittance — all included in the management plan.