Renting your Dubai apartment to travellers is legal and well organised, but it is regulated: every unit must hold a holiday home permit from Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). Here is what owners need to know in 2026.
Who can operate a holiday home
Three profiles can register a unit: the owner directly, a long-term tenant with the landlord's consent, or a licensed operator holding a Vacation Homes Rental trade license, like Skyline Stays. Individual owners can register up to 8 units under the standard permit route; beyond that, a commercial license is required.
What the permit costs
| Item | Reported amount |
|---|---|
| Annual permit, studio or 1 bedroom | AED 370 / year |
| Annual permit, 2 bedrooms | AED 670 / year |
| Annual permit, 3 bedrooms | AED 970 / year |
| Annual permit, 4+ bedrooms | AED 1,270 / year |
| Initial registration (incl. Knowledge & Innovation fees) | ~AED 1,520 one-time |
The Tourism Dirham
On top of the permit, every stay generates a Tourism Dirham fee, paid per bedroom per occupied night: AED 10 for Standard units and AED 15 for Deluxe units, capped at 30 consecutive nights, declared monthly. Guests fund it through their booking; the operator declares and remits it.
What else changed recently
- Sustainability requirements: since 2025 the DET has been adding energy, water and waste expectations for holiday homes, with records that must be available at inspection.
- VAT: short-term rental income is subject to UAE VAT rules; registration becomes mandatory above AED 375,000 of turnover in 12 months.
Related reading: what management really costs in Dubai.
Wondering what your property could earn?
Skyline Stays manages a boutique portfolio of holiday homes in Dubai: 15% of net income, all inclusive, no minimum term, and your DEWA bills paid on your behalf at no extra fee. One message is all it takes for an honest assessment.
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