Planning to set up a ticket sales counter, promotional booth, or registration kiosk at your event or public venue in Dubai? You’ll need an official Counter Permit approved by the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM).
Whether your counter is for selling tickets, promoting an event, or facilitating on-site check-ins, the DTCM Counter Permit is a mandatory requirement for legal operation in Dubai.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the complete step-by-step process of applying for and obtaining a Counter Permit from DTCM in Dubai.
What is a Counter Permit and Why Is It Required?
A Counter Permit is a legal approval issued by DTCM that allows organizers and event companies to set up a temporary booth, stall, or counter in public areas or venues.
You need a counter permit if you’re:
- Selling event tickets at a venue or public location
- Setting up a registration or check-in desk at a mall, hotel, or event site
- Promoting your event with a physical booth
- Partnering with third-party vendors to sell event-related services onsite
This permit ensures that your counter complies with Dubai’s regulations, safety standards, and tourism rules.
Step-by-Step Guide to Get a Counter Permit from DTCM in Dubai
Let’s go through the full process of securing a DTCM Counter Permit, whether your counter is at a hotel, mall, exhibition, or outdoor event.
Step 1: Register or Log in to the DTCM ePermit Portal
Start by logging in to the official DTCM e-permit portal.
If you’re a new user:
- Register your company using your valid UAE trade license
- Assign a contact person with valid UAE contact details
Once your account is verified, you can begin the application.
Note: Only companies with a valid UAE license can apply. If you’re an international organizer, you must work with a local licensed entity.
Step 2: Start a New Counter Permit Application
Once logged in, click on “Create New Event” and select “Counter Permit” or the equivalent sub-option available in the system.
Key Details to Fill:
- Location of the Counter (hotel, mall, event venue, etc.)
- Purpose (ticket sales, registration, promotion, etc.)
Start and End Dates
Working Hours
Number of Staff Managing the Counter
Organizing Entity Details
Make sure the venue where the counter is placed is DTCM-approved and can legally host such setups.
Step 3: Upload Required Documents
For DTCM to process the application, you’ll need to upload the following documents:
- Trade License of the organizing company
- Venue NOC – A letter from the venue owner/manager allowing the setup of the counter
- Counter Layout Plan – A basic sketch or photo showing the counter design and placement
- Marketing Materials – Samples of flyers, banners, or displays used at the counter
- Staff List with Emirates ID copies (if applicable)
- Ticketing Platform Agreement – If you’re selling tickets, a document showing integration with a DTCM-compliant ticketing system (e.g., Ticmint)
Optional Documents: If your counter will include digital screens or sound, you may need additional approvals from the Dubai Municipality or Mall Management.
Step 4: Review and Pay the Permit Fees
Once your application and documents are submitted, the system will generate the fee based on:
- Location of the counter
- Duration (number of days/weeks)
- Type of activity (sales vs. promotion)
Fees can range from AED 250 to AED 2,000, depending on the counter size and placement.
Pay the fees online using a credit/debit card and keep the transaction record.
For Fees Calculator, Please click here – https://ticmint.com/dtcm-fees-calculator/
Step 5: Await DTCM Review and Approval
After submission, your application will be reviewed by DTCM. They may coordinate with:
- Venue management
- Dubai Municipality (for certain public locations)
- Dubai Police (if the counter is at a high-traffic area or includes crowd interaction)
The typical approval timeline is 3 to 5 working days.
You may be contacted if clarifications or additional documents are required.
Step 6: Receive and Display the Permit
Once approved, you will receive a digital Counter Permit via the portal.
Final Steps:
- Print and display the permit clearly at the counter site
- Keep a digital copy accessible for inspection
- Ensure staff are briefed about permit terms and conditions
DTCM inspectors may visit your location during the validity period to ensure compliance.
What Happens If You Don’t Get a Counter Permit?
Operating a counter without a valid permit in Dubai can lead to:
- On-the-spot shutdown by authorities
- Fines ranging from AED 5,000 to AED 20,000
- Ban on future permit applications
- Blacklisting of the organizing company
Always ensure you’re operating within Dubai’s tourism and commercial laws.
Bonus Tip: Use DTCM-Approved Ticketing Platforms Like Ticmint
If your counter is used for ticket sales or event registration, it must be linked with a DTCM-compliant ticketing platform.
Ticmint is a trusted platform that helps organizers:
- Automate DTCM reports
- Track onsite and online ticket sales
- Manage attendee check-ins at counters
- Ensure compliance with tourism regulations
This reduces risk and increases the chances of permit approval.
Ticmint handle the entire process for you—from submission to approval. Please visit – https://ticmint.com/ticmint-best-event-ticketing-platform-in-dubai/
Final Checklist for DTCM Counter Permit Application
Requirement | Status |
Valid UAE trade license | ✔️ |
Venue NOC from mall/hotel/organizer | ✔️ |
Layout plan or image of the counter setup | ✔️ |
Purpose of counter (sales, registration) | ✔️ |
Marketing material samples | ✔️ |
Permit fees paid | ✔️ |
Ticketing system linked (if applicable) | ✔️ |
FAQs On Counter Permit
It’s an official approval from DTCM to set up a temporary counter for ticket sales, registration, or promotions in Dubai.
Any organizer or company setting up a booth in public venues like malls, hotels, or event sites for ticketing or promotion.
Trade license, venue NOC, counter layout, marketing samples, and ticketing platform agreement (if selling tickets).
Fines up to AED 20,000, event shutdown, and possible blacklisting by DTCM.
Counter Permit in Dubai – Final Thoughts for Event Success
A DTCM Counter Permit in Dubai is essential for anyone setting up a temporary booth or counter — whether you’re selling event tickets, managing registrations, or promoting your event at a high-footfall location.
By following DTCM’s guidelines, submitting the right documents, and using a trusted event platform like Ticmint, you can ensure a hassle-free setup and full compliance with Dubai’s regulations.
Ticmint handle the entire process for you—from submission to approval. Please visit – https://ticmint.com/ticmint-best-event-ticketing-platform-in-dubai/
Want to know how Ticmint can help your business?
- Save upto 35% platform fees compared to industry standard.
- 100% customisable & control. Your platform, your way. (No extra charges to remove branding)
- Enhanced transparency and security
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