Thinking of listing your spare room, holiday home, or investment property on Airbnb in the UAE? With the UAE’s booming tourism industry, short-term rentals are a lucrative opportunity — but hosting comes with strict legal requirements.
In this guide by Regent Elite Properties, we’ll walk you through the exact steps to become a legal Airbnb host in the UAE, including registration, permits, fees, and hosting tips.
Where Can You Legally Host Airbnb in the UAE?
Currently, only two emirates officially allow Airbnb-style short-term rentals:
- Dubai – regulated by the Dubai Tourism & Commerce Marketing (DTCM).
- Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) – regulated by the RAK Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA).
If your property is in Dubai or RAK, you can register it and host legally. For other emirates, short-term rentals are not permitted unless future regulations are introduced.
Airbnb Hosting Rules in Dubai
For Homeowners
- Register the property with Dubai Tourism (DTCM).
- Pay an annual registration fee.
- Pay a per-bedroom fee (amount varies by property type).
For Tenants
- Obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your landlord.
- Register the property with DTCM.
- Pay the same fees as homeowners.
Once approved, you’ll receive a holiday home license, allowing you to legally list your property on Airbnb, Booking.com, or similar platforms.
Airbnb Hosting Rules in Dubai
In Dubai, Airbnb hosting is regulated by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). To operate legally, you must:
- Apply for a Holiday Home License through the DET portal
- Submit property details and required documents (such as Emirates ID, property title deed, or tenancy contract with NOC).
- Pay the registration fee and per-bedroom fee as required by DET.
Additional Responsibilities for Airbnb Hosts
Becoming an Airbnb host in Dubai comes with ongoing obligations:
- Pricing: Research the market and set competitive nightly rates.
- Guest Support: Ensure clear communication and availability during guest stays.
- Basic Amenities: Provide essentials (towels, linens, toiletries, kitchenware).
- Safety & Compliance: Install smoke detectors, provide emergency contacts, and follow building rules.
Tips to Succeed as an Airbnb Host in Dubai
- Invest in professional photography – listings with high-quality images get more bookings.
- Write a compelling description – highlight your property’s location, amenities, and unique selling points.
- Respond quickly – fast replies improve your ranking on Airbnb and attract more guests.
- Keep it spotless – cleanliness is the #1 factor in guest reviews.
- Deliver great experiences – small touches like welcome baskets or local guides can lead to 5-star reviews.
Why Airbnb Hosting is Popular Among Investors
Short-term rentals often generate higher ROI than traditional long-term leasing. For example:
- A Dubai Marina 1BR apartment may be rented long-term for AED 90,000/year.
- As a holiday home, it can generate AED 120,000–150,000/year, depending on occupancy.
This is why many investors in Dubai freehold areas prefer to operate as Airbnb hosts rather than sign annual leases.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Do I need a license to host on Airbnb in Dubai?
Yes. All properties must be registered with DTCM and licensed as a holiday home before listing.
2. Can tenants list their rented property on Airbnb?
Yes, but only with a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the landlord.
3. How much does it cost to register a property as an Airbnb in Dubai?
Costs vary, but typically include an annual fee + a per-bedroom fee.
4. Are Airbnb rentals allowed in Abu Dhabi or Sharjah?
Currently, no. Only Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah allow Airbnb-style short-term rentals.
5. Can Airbnb hosts in Dubai get fined?
Yes. Operating without a license can result in fines from AED 20,000–50,000. Always register before listing.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a legal Airbnb host in Dubai or RAK can be extremely profitable if done correctly. With the right license, amenities, and guest experience, you can enjoy strong rental yields while tapping into Dubai’s thriving tourism market.
At Regent Elite Properties, we guide investors and homeowners through every step — from property selection in prime freehold areas to Airbnb registration and property management.
