Latest news with #DubaiDepartmentofEconomyandTourism
CairoScene
17 hours ago
- Business
- CairoScene
UAE Welcomes 29.2 Million Visitors So Far in 2025
Hotel revenues have surpassed AED 45 billion as tourism continues to drive national growth. Jun 01, 2025 The United Arab Emirates has recorded 29.2 million international visitors so far in 2025, marking a 15.5% increase compared to the same period in 2024. The surge reflects continued momentum in the country's tourism sector, fuelled by global events, expanded infrastructure, and sustained marketing efforts. Dubai remained the primary destination, attracting 18.72 million international overnight visitors in the past year, according to the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism. The emirate also achieved one of the world's highest hotel occupancy rates at 77.4%. Across the UAE, hotel revenues exceeded AED 45 billion, while national occupancy rates reached an average of 78%—among the highest globally. These figures support the goals of the UAE's National Tourism Strategy 2031, which aims to attract 40 million annual hotel guests and generate AED 100 billion in new tourism investments.
Hi Dubai
4 days ago
- Business
- Hi Dubai
How to Legally Expand Your Business in Dubai Without Changing Your License
Dubai's economy is on an impressive upward track, growing by 3.1% in the first nine months of 2024 and reaching AED 339.4 billion, according to Digital Dubai. What's driving this momentum? Key sectors like wholesale and retail trade have grown by 2.9%, transportation and storage by 5.3%, and financial and insurance activities by 4.5%. As these industries expand, so does Dubai's potential as a global business hub. But what's the bigger vision? The emirate's ambitions are clearly outlined in the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to double the economy by 2033. This is supported by major reforms, most notably the decision to allow 100% foreign ownership of onshore companies since June 1, 2021. These changes are not just policy shifts, they're open invitations for global businesses to grow in Dubai. But with such an opportunity comes the need for caution. Are you operating with the right licenses? Failing to comply with licensing regulations can be costly, with penalties reaching up to AED 50,000—or worse, complete business closure. So how can businesses expand in Dubai without changing their core license or running into compliance issues? In this article, we explore legal ways to grow your business in Dubai without altering your original license structure, helping you scale safely and strategically . Understanding Your Existing License with DET The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), formerly DED, is the primary authority for business registration and licensing in Mainland Dubai. DET oversees corporate strategy, business registration, and compliance. Key License Types: Commercial License: For buying, selling, importing/exporting. For buying, selling, importing/exporting. Professional License: For services like accounting, legal, and marketing. For services like accounting, legal, and marketing. Industrial License: For manufacturing, processing, and assembling. Benefits of a DET License: Enhanced Credibility: Official government endorsement builds trust. Official government endorsement builds trust. Market Access: Direct access to Dubai's market, including government tenders. Direct access to Dubai's market, including government tenders. Flexible Visa Policies: Typically one visa per 100 square feet of office space. Typically one visa per of office space. 100% Foreign Ownership: Permitted in most mainland industries. Permitted in most mainland industries. No Minimum Capital: Generally, no minimum capital is required for DED-licensed mainland companies. Generally, no minimum capital is required for DED-licensed mainland companies. Tax Advantages: While historically offering significant benefits, corporate tax was introduced in June 2023, applying a 9% rate on net profits exceeding AED 375,000. Diversifying Activities Under Your Existing Mainland License The UAE government allows businesses to add new activities to an existing trade license, provided all legal requirements are met. Engaging in unlisted activities can result in fines from AED 5,000 to AED 50,000. Process Highlights: Initial Approval: Obtain approval from DET for proposed new activities. Application Submission: Submit the BR1 form for license amendment. NOCs & Legalities: Secure No Objection Certificates (NOCs) from relevant authorities if needed, and complete legal formalities (e.g., LLC agreement addendum). Final Steps: Submit all documents, pay fees (around AED 3,000 for mainland, AED 2,000 for free zones), and receive your updated license. Benefits: Unlocking new revenue streams, staying competitive, enhancing credibility, and optimizing existing resources. Free Zone to Mainland Expansion Under New Regulations Executive Council Resolution No. 11 of 2025, issued on March 3, 2025, allows Dubai free zone businesses to operate directly in the mainland. This is a core part of Dubai's D33 economic agenda. Pathways for Free Zone Entities: Onshore Dubai Branch (physical presence required): Valid for one year, renewable. Onshore Dubai Branch (HQ in free zone, no physical presence): Valid for one year, renewable, with an annual fee of AED 10,000. Temporary Permits for Specific Activities: Valid for up to six months, with a fee of AED 5,000 annually. The DET, in coordination with licensing authorities, is expected to issue a comprehensive list of permissible activities by September 20, 2025.A significant benefit is the ability to use the existing free zone-registered workforce for mainland operations, leading to cost savings. Leveraging Digital Expansion with E-commerce and Virtual Licenses Dubai's e-commerce market is projected to reach USD 8 billion by 2025. An e-commerce license is essential for legal online operations. Adding E-commerce Activities: Businesses with existing mainland commercial licenses can add e-commerce activities following the standard amendment process. Types of E-commerce Licenses: E-Trader License: For UAE/GCC nationals, home-based businesses, social media sales (no physical shop/visa). For UAE/GCC nationals, home-based businesses, social media sales (no physical shop/visa). Portal License: For online platforms connecting buyers and sellers. For online platforms connecting buyers and sellers. Virtual Company License: For non-resident entrepreneurs, allowing remote operation without a physical office is considered cost-effective. Cost: A Dubai e-commerce license in 2025 typically ranges from AED 5,750 to AED 15,000, depending on jurisdiction, office needs, and visa allocations. Establishing a Branch or Representative Office (An Extension, Not a Change) Foreign companies can establish a direct presence in Dubai through branch or representative offices without altering their parent company's license. Branch Office: Functions as an extension of a foreign parent company, authorized to conduct commercial activities. Requires a physical office and a Local Service Agent (LSA). The Ministry of Economy (MOE) mandates a capital deposit of AED 50,000 . Functions as an extension of a foreign parent company, authorized to conduct commercial activities. Requires a physical office and a Local Service Agent (LSA). The Ministry of Economy (MOE) mandates a capital deposit of . Representative Office: Established solely for promotional activities, not direct sales. Requires a UAE national as a local agent. No minimum share capital is required, but a refundable MOE deposit of AED 50,000 is typically required. Franchising: A Double-Edged Sword for Business Expansion The MENA franchising industry is growing, with Dubai's market projected to reach USD 44 billion by 2026, expanding by 12% annually. The current market size exceeds AED 30 billion annually, with growth rates averaging 12-15% year over year. Franchise businesses often achieve 25-30% higher success rates and 40% faster profitability compared to independent startups. Why Franchising Can Be a Risky Bet: Unsuitability: A business may not be viable for replication if its core elements aren't distinctive or strong enough to attract franchisees. A business may not be viable for replication if its core elements aren't distinctive or strong enough to attract franchisees. Lack of IP Protection: Unregistered trademarks can hinder franchising. Unregistered trademarks can hinder franchising. Complex Operations: If the business system is too complicated or difficult to reproduce consistently, it's not suitable. If the business system is too complicated or difficult to reproduce consistently, it's not suitable. Unprofitable Model: Franchises are often less profitable than the original business due to startup costs like franchise fees and supplies. Franchises are often less profitable than the original business due to startup costs like franchise fees and supplies. Weak Brand Recognition: A lack of strong brand recognition makes it harder to attract franchisees and customers. Common Pitfalls for Franchisees: Inadequate Market Research: Not understanding local demand, competition, or ideal location. Not understanding local demand, competition, or ideal location. Underestimating Costs: Beyond initial fees, ongoing expenses like royalty fees (typically 5-8% of gross revenue) and marketing contributions (another 2-3% ) can be substantial. Beyond initial fees, ongoing expenses like royalty fees (typically of gross revenue) and marketing contributions (another ) can be substantial. Wrong Franchise Model: Selecting a concept that lacks local demand or fails to adapt to cultural preferences. Selecting a concept that lacks local demand or fails to adapt to cultural preferences. Neglecting Training & Support: Insufficient training and ongoing support from the franchisor can lead to operational inefficiencies. Insufficient training and ongoing support from the franchisor can lead to operational inefficiencies. Franchisor Instability: Financial difficulties of the franchisor can severely impact franchisees. Financial difficulties of the franchisor can severely impact franchisees. Market Saturation: Over-saturation or unclear territorial rights can lead to internal competition. The legal framework for franchising in the UAE is governed by the Commercial Agencies Law (Federal Law No. 18 of 1981), the Commercial Companies Law, and contract law. Commercial agents (franchisees) must register with the Ministry of Economy. Franchisors are legally obligated to provide a comprehensive disclosure document to potential franchisees. Dubai's dynamic regulatory environment supports business expansion without requiring a complete license change. Strategies include diversifying activities under existing mainland licenses, leveraging the new free zone to a mainland expansion framework (Executive Council Resolution No. 11 of 2025), embracing digital growth via e-commerce and virtual licenses, and establishing branch or representative offices. While franchising offers growth potential, it demands careful viability assessment and adherence to legal obligations. Each pathway offers distinct advantages, requiring meticulous planning and compliance for sustained success in this global business hub. (Main Sources: Also read: Can Foreigners Really Own 100% of a Business in the UAE? Here's the Truth Explore the evolution of foreign ownership restrictions in the UAE, from their historical roots to the groundbreaking 2020 reforms and the sectors that still require local ownership. Small Business Licence Cost In Dubai We'll explore the cost of a small business licence in Dubai, and guide you through the steps required to launch your business successfully. 6 Simple Steps To Set Up A Business In A UAE Free Zone Establishing a business in a UAE Free Zone is straightforward and can be completed in six simple steps, as outlined by the Ministry of Economy. The Benefits of Dubai's Free Zones for Entrepreneurs This article explores the many advantages that Dubai's free zones offer, making them an attractive proposition for entrepreneurs worldwide.
Tourism Breaking News
21-05-2025
- Business
- Tourism Breaking News
Crowne Plaza Dubai Marina wins first place in DET digital reputation award for 5-Star Hotels
Post Views: 58 Crowne Plaza Dubai Marina is proud to announce that it has been awarded 1st place in the Digital Reputation Award for the 5-star hotel category by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). This remarkable recognition reflects not only our online reputation but the deep-rooted culture of service excellence we uphold as part of the IHG Hotels & Resorts family. At Crowne Plaza Dubai Marina, every guest experience is shaped by our unwavering commitment to True Hospitality — a promise to recognize, understand, and anticipate the evolving needs of our guests. Our success in achieving this award stems from a purposeful alignment with IHG's global service standards, coupled with a relentless drive to personalize each stay. From our front-of-house interactions to behind-the-scenes operations, our team continually challenges themselves to go beyond expectations — whether by acting on feedback in real time, anticipating unspoken needs, or curating seamless stays that reflect genuine care. 'We are truly honored to receive this recognition from DET,' said Raffi Torikian, General Manager of Crowne Plaza Dubai Marina. 'This award is not just a reflection of positive reviews, but of the human connections we build every day — the thoughtful gestures, proactive service, and consistency that make guests feel truly valued.' We extend heartfelt thanks to our guests for their trust and continued support. Their honest feedback and shared experiences have been instrumental in shaping the high standards we strive to maintain. At Crowne Plaza Dubai Marina, we take immense pride in the dedication and passion our team brings to every aspect of the guest experience. Their commitment to recognizing individual needs, exceeding expectations, and upholding the highest standards of hospitality reflects the true spirit of our brand. Together, we continue to challenge ourselves and push the boundaries of excellence in everything we do. As we look ahead, Crowne Plaza Dubai Marina remains committed to elevating every aspect of the guest journey and leading by example in Dubai's dynamic hospitality landscape.
Hi Dubai
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Hi Dubai
Dubai GameExpo Summit 2025 Draws Global Gaming Leaders and Boosts Regional Industry Growth
Dubai GameExpo Summit 2025 brought together over 1,400 gaming and esports professionals from 70 countries, reinforcing the UAE's growing status as a regional hub for the global gaming industry. Hosted at the Dubai World Trade Centre as part of the wider Dubai Esports and Games Festival (DEF), the summit was powered by Pocket Gamer Connects in collaboration with the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). Over 2,000 meetings were facilitated through the MeetToMatch platform, as attendees explored the rapidly expanding gaming ecosystem across the Middle East and North Africa. The two-day event featured more than 75 speakers, including industry leaders and government officials, who led sessions on artificial intelligence, web3 technologies, growth strategies, and user acquisition. One of the summit's key highlights was the launch of the PitchPlay competition, presented in partnership with DMCC Gaming Centre. The contest gave promising game start-ups a stage to present their innovations. The top prize of AED55,000 was awarded to Martin Lothe Saeterdal's studio, Filiokus, for its engaging approach to mobile games that make maths fun. The Very Big Indie Pitch, a returning crowd favourite, also spotlighted rising indie developers and connected them with seasoned experts. Muna Al Falasi, Director of Esports and Games Strategy at Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment, called the summit a 'pivotal moment' in Dubai's journey to becoming a global gaming leader. She noted the event's role in accelerating digital innovation, supporting SMEs, and creating career opportunities in the sector. With international participation and a clear focus on innovation, the summit underscored Dubai's strategic push to lead the gaming and esports space across the region. News Source: Emirates News Agency
Khaleej Times
20-05-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Dubai universities record 20% increase in student enrolment
Higher education institutes in the UAE have seen a 20 per cent increase in student enrolment for the academic year 2024-25. A total of 42,026 students are now enrolled at 41 private colleges, universities and other higher education institutions in Dubai — the highest number to date. Emirati student enrolment in the private higher education sector also grew by a record 22 per cent during the current academic year. The number of international students, those who have come to Dubai specifically to study, has also continued to rise, with a 29 per cent increase in enrolment compared to the previous year. International students now make up 35 per cent of the total student body at private higher education institutions in Dubai. Under the Education 33 (E33) strategy's, Dubai aims for international students to make up 50 per cent of the total student body by 2033 — a target that reflects the emirate's commitment to becoming a global hub for quality higher education. Earlier this year, at the Khaleej Times UniExpo event, experts had shared that many parents were choosing not to send their children abroad for studies, preferring to keep them in the UAE. Some even shared that the first question parents asked foreign university representatives was whether they had campuses in the UAE. Universities Of the 41 institutes in Dubai, 37 are international campuses, offering a growing and diverse range of academic programmes to meet the needs of future-focused learners. Four new international universities opened in Dubai during the 2024-25 academic year, from countries across the world including China, India, Russia, and Italy. The emirate has become a hotspot for some of the best universities around the world to open up campuses in. Earlier this year, during Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum's India visit, The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) signed an MoU with the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIMA), one of Asia's leading business schools and India's top-ranked business schools, to establish a world-class IIMA campus in Dubai. The institute will be allocated space within the Dubai International Academic City (DIAC) where it will launch its one-year full-time MBA Programme later this year.
