How to Apply for Desert Camp Permit | DTCM & Dubai Tourism Guide

You need a DTCM desert camp permit if your event involves:

• Hosting guests in a desert location (private or public land)

• Setting up tents, lighting, sound systems, or dining areas

• Conducting desert safaris, dune bashing, or entertainment activities

• Selling tickets or providing commercial services in the desert

• Overnight stays, group excursions, or tourism-related experiences

A typical desert camping experience in the Dubai desert allows campers of all ages, including families and children, to enjoy a variety of adventurous and thrilling activities such as sand boarding, camel rides, nature walks, and desert safaris. Campsites are often equipped with comfortable tents, bedding, beds, sofas, and even trailers, providing a relaxing environment for everyone. Evenings are spent around a campfire, eating traditional meals, and watching the sunset over the golden sand dunes. Many of these camps, including exclusive bedouin camps, are located within the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, a protected environment that emphasizes conservation and controlled access. The best time to visit is from early November to March, when visitors can witness magical moments, relax, and spend time exploring the unique environment of the reserve. Some camps, such as those operated by Sand Sherpa—the only company permitted in certain reserves—offer exclusive experiences accompanied by expert guides. For a successful trip, tips include arranging permits in advance, bringing firewood, and preparing for both the journey and the arrival at the campsite.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for a Desert Camp Permit in Dubai

1. Register on the DTCM ePermit Portal

Start by registering your company or event agency on the official DTCM ePermit system. You must have a valid UAE trade license, specifically authorized for tourism, events, or adventure activities.

• Go to dubaitourism.gov.ae

• Create your organizer profile

• Verify trade license and business activity type

2. Submit Detailed Event & Location Information

You’ll need to provide:

• Event name and nature (e.g., corporate dinner, safari night, wedding)

• Exact desert location with GPS coordinates

• Event date and duration

• Expected number of attendees

• Camp layout including campsite setup, equipped facilities, tents, restrooms, dining area, entry/exit points, bedding and beds for sleeping comfort, sofas for relaxation, and trailers as part of the luxury accommodations

• Activities involved (e.g., fire shows, camel rides, music performances, preparing firewood for campfires, and eating traditional meals)

3. Upload the Required Documents

To get your permit approved, you must submit:

• Trade License of the organizer

• NOC from landowner or desert tour company (if not your land)

• Layout plan or event setup blueprint

• Insurance documents (public liability cover may be required)

• List of performers or service providers

• Environmental or waste management plan (if overnight)

4. Pay the Desert Camp Permit Fees

The DTCM permit fee is calculated based on:

• Duration of the event (day/night/overnight)

• Location (protected area or open desert)

• Type of activities (commercial, entertainment, food service, etc.)

You can pay securely through the ePermit portal using your company account.

5. Await DTCM Review and Final Approval

Once submitted, DTCM will evaluate your application, which may involve cross-checking with Dubai Police, Dubai Municipality, or Environmental departments.

• You may be contacted for clarifications or extra documents

• Once approved, the permit is issued digitally via email or portal dashboard