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

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Table of contents

  1. Introduction
  2. Steps to Start an Event Management Company in Dubai
  3. Types of Events to Specialize In order to Start an Event Management Company in Dubai
  4. Types of Licenses Required to Start an Event Management Company in Dubai 
  5. Cost Required to Start an Event Management Company in Dubai
  6. Scope of Event Management Business in Dubai
  7. Legal Forms of Business>Activities Permitted Under the Event Management License
  8. Legal Requirements and Compliance to Start an Event Management Company in Dubai
    1. Renewal of License 
    2. Limited Liability Company (LLC)
  9. Conclusion
  10. FAQ

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

Step 1: Collaborate with Adam Global 

The initial step in your journey on how to start an event management company in Dubai is forming a partnership with Adam Global. We specialize in streamlining the entire company registration and setup process, ensuring you comply with all governmental and local trade regulations specific to the event management sector in Dubai. 

Step 2: Specify Your Business Activities

It’s crucial to clearly define the range of services your event management company will offer. This is not just for your internal strategy but also for obtaining the appropriate event management license in Dubai. Failing to accurately list all your intended business activities could result in penalties. Adam Global can assist you in ensuring that your license application is both comprehensive and compliant. 

Step 3: Select the Appropriate Business Structure and Jurisdiction 

Dubai offers a variety of specialized business zones, each governed by regulations designed to support specific industries. The two primary types of business structures are Mainland Companies and Free Zone Companies. 
Mainland Companies: Ideal for businesses aiming to trade within the UAE because of high reach and customer availability. 
Free Zone Companies: These are wholly owned by the investor and are situated in one of Dubai’s 40+ specialized trade zones. These zones offer additional benefits like startup incubation services and other support systems. It’s often the most cost-effective and straightforward option for setting up your event management company. 
 If you’re uncertain about which structure to choose, our experts can provide tailored advice. 

Step 4: Decide on a Company Name 

Adam Global will assist you in selecting and registering your company name, ensuring it aligns with the UAE’s naming regulations. The name should not contain any language that could be considered offensive or blasphemous, and it should not reference religious figures or deities. If you opt to use your personal name, it must be used in its entirety.

Step 5: Apply for an Event Management License 

This is the pivotal step in becoming officially licensed to operate your event management company in Dubai. To avoid costly and time-consuming errors, it’s advisable to let experts like Adam Global handle this for you. 

Required Documents for License Application: 
· Passport copies of all business partners and shareholders 
· Two color passport-sized photographs of each partner and shareholder 
· A fully completed application form 

Step 6: Secure Visas and Open a Corporate Bank Account 

Once your business license is in place, the next steps involve applying for visas and establishing a corporate bank account. The visa will also enable you to sponsor visas for dependents, including family and domestic staff. The number of employee visas you can apply for will depend on the size of your company. 
Navigating the corporate banking landscape can be complex. Our specialized team at Adam Global can guide you in choosing the banking solution that best fits your business needs. 
By following these steps and leveraging Adam Global’s expertise, you’ll be well on your way to successfully starting an event management company in Dubai, UAE. 

  

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


1. What types of events are most lucrative in Dubai?

Destination weddings and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) events are among the most lucrative sectors in Dubai’s event industry.

2.What are the legal requirements for starting an event management company in Dubai?

You’ll need an Event Management License from the Department of Economic Development (DED), along with specific Event and Ticketing Permits for each event you organize. Compliance with local laws and regulations is mandatory.

3. How much does it cost to set up an event management company in Dubai?

The estimated total investment can range from AED 100,000 to AED 250,000 in the first year, covering license fees, operational costs, and other expenses.

4. How do I renew my event management license in Dubai?

License renewal is an annual process that involves submitting updated documents and paying a renewal fee, which can range from AED 5,000 to AED 10,000.

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