Setup Event Management Company in Dubai - UAE
Event Management Company Setup in Dubai : Dubai is famous the world over as one of the event capitals of the world. Dubai hosts hundreds of events every year, from international trade fairs and consumer shows to corporate functions and conventions. Every year, millions of international visitors land here, contributing to the economy, with the World Trade Centre events and exhibitions alone estimated to contribute some USD 3.3 billion. Cost for starting Event Management company in Dubai.
Many event management companies have flourished here in Dubai, and there is still scope for more! Starting an event management company in Dubai is very easy if you are aware of all the legal formalities. If not, you can always seek the professional help of a business consultant to make things easier. Event Management company formation in Dubai.
Decide where you want to set up your business—on the Dubai mainland or in one of its many free zones. Foreign entrepreneurs setting up shop in a Dubai free zone are allowed to own 100% of their company and do not require a local sponsor to do business. Event Management company registration in Dubai. However, free zone businesses have restrictions on where they can hold events and exhibitions, as they must apply for a permit from every venue they work with and cannot hold events in public spaces like beaches or parks. Mainland businesses, meanwhile, only need to apply once to the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) and can then usually hold events anywhere throughout the UAE.
If you opted to set up your event management company in a free zone, then there is often no requirement to take up office space; on the mainland, however, office space is mandatory. Start Event Management company in Dubai.
Event Management Company Setup Process
- Submit an application form for obtaining the license to the Department of Economic Development (DED), listing your business activities.
- Once your application is approved, pay the fees.
- Your license will be given to you in a few days after the approval.
Documents Required for event permit
- Event Permit Request if applying through a customer service centre
- For events where temporary construction is involved, a soft copy of structural drawings and calculations stamped by a specialised contractor
- Event Organiser Trade License
- The height between the ceiling and the floor must be more than 2.30 m.
- A soft copy of the detailed layout showing the location of all stages and other facilities
- There must be a wash basin near the area for facial treatments.
- NOC from the Master Developer
- NOC from relevant authorities
- Risk Assessment, HSE Plan, and Risk Compliance Method Statement covering all activities for all stages of mobilisation, operation, and dismantling for an event having only temporary structures
- Event Agenda and Emergency Plan
Frequently Asked Questions
What is event management company setup in Dubai?
Registering a DET trade license to plan, organize, and deliver corporate events, exhibitions, concerts, weddings, and activations legally across Dubai.
Who regulates event companies in Dubai?
The Dubai DET gives out commercial licenses. Event permits may need to be approved by the DTCM, Dubai Police, Civil Defense, the Municipality, the RTA, and the NOCs of each venue.
How much does event company setup cost in Dubai?
Budgets vary by size, office, visas, insurance, and equipment. Many new businesses set aside AED 30,000 — AED 200,000 or more, not including production, marketing or working capital.
What documents are required to start an event company?
Trade name reservation, shareholder passports, activity list, lease/Ejari, MOA, insurance quotes, manager CV, risk assessments, supplier agreements, and—if sponsored—NOC.
How long does licensing take for event management in Dubai?
If all the paperwork is in order, initial approvals usually take 3 to 10 business days. Add time for permits, venue NOCs, visas, and bank accounts.
Mainland vs free zone for event management in Dubai?
Mainland enables onshore clients and government tenders;free zones offer 100% ownership, quick setup and cost efficiency;use mainland entity or agent for onshore delivery.
Which permits are needed for events in Dubai?
Depending on event type:DTCM event permit, venue NOC, risk plan, security plan, crowd control, pyrotechnics NOC, temporary signage and artist permits.
What insurance and compliance do Dubai event firms need?
Obtain public liability insurance, worker compensation, vendor contracts, HSE procedures, RAMS documentation, and clear client approvals, invoices and VAT/corporate tax records.
Can Dubai event companies sell tickets and manage online bookings?
Yes—add e-commerce activity if needed, integrate payment gateway, ticketing platform, QR validation, refund policy, AML/KYC and data-privacy compliance.
How do I renew an event management license in Dubai?
Renew annually:pay DET fees, update lease/Ejari, insurance, staff visas, maintain clean compliance history, and keep vendor contracts and risk procedures current.
