How to Get DTCM Event Permit in Dubai – Best Guide

Securing an event permit in Dubai is a structured process. The Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) is the official authority responsible for issuing event permits and overseeing regulatory compliance for all events in the city.

Below is a detailed breakdown of each step to ensure your application is smooth and successful. DTCM permits are required for different event types, including corporate, entertainment, and public events, and these permits must be obtained in advance to avoid disruptions. The DTCM enforces strict regulatory standards, and failure to comply can result in penalties and fines, such as monetary penalties or event cancellations.

The entire process can be complex, but comprehensive support is available to guide organizers through every step, ensuring compliance and a seamless experience.

1. Create an Organizer Profile on the Event Permit Portal

To start, register on Dubai’s official event permit system. This platform is managed by DTCM and allows digital submissions. Event organizers must use the DTCM e permit system and e permit platform to submit relevant documents and required documentation. Obtaining permission is essential for event organizers to ensure compliance with DTCM regulations.

• If you’re a company, you must have a valid UAE trade license and provide a passport copy with valid expiry dates as part of the required documentation.

• Freelancers or individuals must collaborate with a licensed entity.

• Once registered, you’ll gain access to a dashboard to submit applications, upload documents, and track progress.

Tip: Keep your trade license updated to avoid delays.

2. Submit Detailed Event Information

Next, create a new event application and fill in all necessary details carefully:

• Event name & description

• Subject of the event (clearly state the nature or focus of the event as required in the documentation)

• Event type (e.g., concert, conference, exhibition, entertainment event, public event, personal event, mall event, etc.)

• Basic information (essential event details required for all event types)

• Start and end dates

• Venue address and location (specify if the event is in public venues such as hotels, parks, or malls)

• Expected audience size

• Ticketing/registration method (indicate if the event is ticketed or non-ticketed, and if selling tickets, an e ticketing permit is required)

• List of performers or speakers (if applicable)

• Event details (provide comprehensive information about the event, including schedule and purpose)

For public events, entertainment events, exhibitions, and events in malls or public venues, you may need to obtain additional permits or provide notification to authorities, depending on the event type and scale. Organizers must obtain permission for certain event types and ensure all relevant event details are submitted for approval.

Ticketed events require specific permits, such as an e ticketing permit, especially when selling tickets online or at the venue. Non-ticketed events may have different requirements, and personal events may not always need a permit, but it is important to check the latest regulations.

Tip: Ensure event information matches your promotional materials and ticketing platforms.

3. Upload All Required Documents

Upload all the required documentation and relevant documents to support your application, including those specifically requested for entertainment permits and entertainment events. This includes:

• Trade License (organizer)

• Venue NOC (No Objection Certificate)

• Event layout/floor plan

• Performer or artist approvals (if applicable)

• Insurance documents (for large events)

• Security and crowd control plans

Be sure to include all supporting materials and permits as required for your event type. Applications will only be processed once all requested documents are submitted.

Tip: Upload high-quality PDFs and label them clearly.

Need help managing all these steps? Ticmint simplifies the process with built-in tools for document handling, DTCM compliance, and event marketing — all in one platform.

4. Pay the Permit Fee Online

Once all details are submitted, pay the required permit fee:

• Payment of the permit fee is mandatory and essential for your application to be processed

• Fees vary based on the event’s category and size

• Payments are made securely via the DTCM portal

• A receipt will be generated upon completion

Applications will only be processed after full payment is received.

Tip: Always save the receipt for your financial and legal records.

5. Review and Approval by Authorities

The permit application process in Dubai is managed through the DTCM e permit system, an online platform that streamlines the submission and management of event permit applications. Event organizers must obtain DTCM event permits and all necessary permits to ensure compliance with local regulations and avoid penalties. Only complete applications that have been processed through the DTCM e permit or e permit platform will move forward to approval. In some cases, a notification to authorities may be required for certain event types or venues, even if a full DTCM permit is not needed.

After submission, DTCM and relevant departments will review your application:

• Approvals typically take 2 to 10 working days

• You may be asked to revise or submit additional documents

• Upon approval, your permit will be emailed and shown in your portal

Tip: Only begin promotions or ticket sales after the permit is officially approved.