How to Start an Event Management Company in Dubai : In just 6 Steps

Introduction

 Are you captivated by the allure of Dubai’s grand events and ever wondered how to be a part of this booming industry? Well, you’re in the right place. This blog post will guide you on how to start an event management company in Dubai, UAE, a city that never ceases to amaze with its extravagant events. 

Dubai is not just a city; it’s a brand synonymous with opulence, innovation, and grandeur. The event management industry here is no exception. From hosting global conferences to extravagant weddings, Dubai is the epicenter of events that attract millions from around the world. According to a report by Dubai Statistics Center, the events sector contributed a staggering AED 68.5 billion to the GDP in 2019, and the numbers are only rising. 

The objective of this blog post is to provide a comprehensive guide on how to start an event management company in Dubai, UAE. Whether you’re interested in organizing destination weddings, MICE events, conferences, or exhibitions, this post will cover all the bases, from legal requirements to operational insights. 

By the end of this post, you’ll have a clear roadmap on how to start an event management company in Dubai, UAE, and make your mark in this thriving industry. 

Steps to Start an Event Management Company in Dubai

  

Types of Events to Specialize In order to Start an Event Management Company in Dubai

Destination Weddings 

Dubai is a dream destination for couples worldwide, offering a blend of tradition and modernity against a backdrop of stunning landscapes. According to Brides Magazine, Dubai ranks among the top 10 international wedding destinations. Specializing in destination weddings can set your event management company apart, tapping into a market that saw over 1,500 destination weddings in 2019 alone. 

MICE Events (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) 

The MICE sector in Dubai is booming, thanks in part to its strategic location and world-class facilities. According to the Dubai Chamber of Commerce, the MICE industry contributed over AED 2.4 billion to the UAE’s economy in 2020. Specializing in MICE events can offer a steady stream of business from both local and international clients. 

Conferences 

Dubai is a hub for international conferences, attracting thought leaders and industry experts from around the globe. The city hosted over 200 international conferences in 2021, according to the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA). By focusing on conferences, you can build a network of professionals and organizations that frequently require such services. 

Exhibitions 

From the renowned Dubai Expo to niche trade shows, exhibitions are a cornerstone of Dubai’s event landscape. The Dubai World Trade Centre alone hosted over 500 exhibitions in 2019, attracting more than 3 million visitors. Specializing in exhibitions can offer your event management company a chance to work on high-profile projects that garner international attention. 

Choosing the right specialization is a critical step in how to start an event management company in Dubai, UAE. Whether it’s the romance of destination weddings or the corporate allure of MICE events, conferences, and exhibitions, each offers its own set of opportunities and challenges. By focusing on one or more of these event types, you can carve out a lucrative niche for your business in Dubai’s thriving event industry. 

  

Types of Licenses Required to Start an Event Management Company in Dubai 

To Start an event management company in Dubai, UAE, is not just about creativity and connections; it’s also about compliance. In this section, we’ll demystify the types of licenses you’ll need to operate legally and successfully in this vibrant market. 

Event Management License 

An Event Management License is the cornerstone of your legal framework. Issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED) in Dubai, this license authorizes you to plan, organize, and execute various types of events. According to the DED, the average cost of obtaining this license ranges from AED 10,000 to AED 15,000, depending on the scope of your business activities. Failure to obtain this license can result in hefty fines and even business closure. 

Event Permit 

Once your Event Management License is in place, you’ll need specific permits for each event you organize. These are issued by the Dubai Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) and are mandatory for all events, whether public or private. The cost of an event permit can vary based on the event’s size and nature, ranging from AED 200 to AED 2,000. It’s crucial to apply for these permits at least a month before the event date to ensure timely approval. 

Ticketing Permit 

If your event involves ticket sales, a Ticketing Permit is a must. This permit is also issued by the DTCM and ensures that all ticketing activities are conducted in a transparent and legal manner. The cost for a Ticketing Permit is approximately AED 500 per event. Note that a percentage of the ticket sales, usually around 1-2%, is also levied as a fee by the DTCM. 

Understanding the types of licenses required is a crucial aspect of how to start an event management company in Dubai, UAE. From the overarching Event Management License to specific Event and Ticketing Permits, each plays a vital role in ensuring your business operates within the legal framework set by Dubai’s regulatory bodies. 

Cost Required to Start an Event Management Company in Dubai

The first financial hurdle you’ll encounter is obtaining the necessary licenses. As mentioned earlier, an Event Management License from the Department of Economic Development (DED) is essential. The average cost for this license ranges from AED 10,000 to AED 15,000. 

Additionally, you’ll need specific Event and Ticketing Permits for each event, costing between AED 200 to AED 2,000 and around AED 500 per event, respectively. 

Operational Costs 

Beyond licensing, operational costs are the backbone of your budget. These include: 

• Office Space: Renting an office in Dubai can cost anywhere from AED 40,000 to AED 100,000 per year, depending on the location and size. 
• Staff Salaries: According to Gulf Talent, the average salary for an event manager in Dubai is around AED 15,000 per month. Multiply this by the number of staff you plan to hire. 
• Marketing: A modest marketing budget could start at AED 5,000 per month, covering digital advertising, social media, and other promotional activities. 
• Miscellaneous: Don’t forget utilities, office supplies, and other miscellaneous costs, which can add another AED 2,000 to AED 5,000 per month. 

Estimated Total Investment 

Adding up all these costs, the estimated total investment to start an event management company in Dubai can range from AED 100,000 to AED 250,000 in the first year. This estimate provides a ballpark figure; the actual costs can vary based on your business model, scale, and specialization. 

Understanding the cost structure is a vital component of how to start an event management company in Dubai, UAE. From license fees to operational expenses, being aware of these costs will help you plan your budget effectively and secure any necessary funding. 

Scope of Event Management Business in Dubai 

Event Type	Market Size	Revenue Potential (AED)	Key Opportunities	Challenges
Destination Weddings	1,500+ weddings annually	20-50 million	High demand for luxury and unique experiences	Seasonal business, high competition
MICE Events	AED 2.4 billion industry	100-500 million	Corporate clients, international events	Requires high-quality service and facilities
Conferences	200+ international conferences annually	30-70 million	Networking, recurring business	High standards for speakers and venues
Exhibitions	500+ exhibitions at DWTC alone	50-100 million	Trade shows, product launches	High setup costs, competition for attention
Music & Cultural Events	100+ events annually	10-30 million	Tourism boost, local and international audience	Regulatory approvals, cultural sensitivities

Key Takeaways: 

• Destination Weddings: A lucrative but highly competitive sector, with seasonal fluctuations. 
• MICE Events: A booming industry with high revenue potential but demands top-notch services and facilities. 
• Conferences: Offers opportunities for networking and recurring business but requires high-quality speakers and venues. 
• Exhibitions: High-profile projects with good revenue potential but come with high setup costs. 
• Music & Cultural Events: A growing sector with a diverse audience but requires navigating regulatory and cultural nuances. 

By understanding the scope across different event types, you can make an informed decision on how to start an event management company in Dubai, UAE, that aligns with your business goals and expertise. This table aims to provide a snapshot, rich in data and facts, to guide your business planning effectively. 

Activities Permitted Under the Event Management License 

Corporate Events 

• What’s Allowed: Planning, organizing, and executing corporate meetings, team-building events, and product launches. 
• Regulations: Must adhere to corporate compliance and ethics standards. 

Sporting Events 

• What’s Allowed: Organization of sports competitions, fitness events, and related activities. 
• Regulations: Compliance with sports governing bodies and safety protocols is mandatory. 

Conferences 

• What’s Allowed: Hosting academic, industry-specific, or general conferences. 
• Regulations: Must meet educational and professional standards, often requiring approval from industry bodies. 

  

Legal Requirements and Compliance to Start an Event Management Company in Dubai

This Ensures Your Event Management Company Operates Smoothly in Dubai 

Documents Required 

• Necessities: Passport copies of all partners, color passport-sized photos, and a completed application form. 
• Additional: Business plan, No Objection Certificate (NOC) from a local sponsor, and proof of office space. 

Renewal of License 

• Frequency: Annually. 
• Process: Submission of updated documents and payment of renewal fees, which can range from AED 5,000 to AED 10,000. 

Conclusion 

To Start an event management company in Dubai, UAE, is a promising but complex endeavor. This blog served as your all-in-one guide, detailing market opportunities, legal requirements, and operational costs. If you’re committed to making your mark in Dubai’s vibrant event industry, the time to start is now. 

Ready to take the next step? Contact Adam Global today for personalized guidance and support in setting up your event management company in Dubai, UAE. 

Thank you for reading, and we look forward to assisting you on your entrepreneurial journey. 

FAQ