Dubai’s desert safaris are iconic — combining adventure, entertainment, and cultural hospitality in one unforgettable experience. The Dubai desert is at the heart of the region’s thriving desert tourism sector, attracting visitors seeking unique adventure experiences. But if you’re planning to host a desert safari event for tourists, corporates, or influencers, you need to follow official guidelines. That starts with obtaining a Safari Permit, regulated by the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM). Anyone considering entering the desert safari business should conduct thorough market research and market research to understand the regulatory environment and customer preferences.
In this guide, we’ll explore what a safari permit is, why it’s important for event organizers in Dubai, and how tools like simplify the process.
What is a Safari Permit in Dubai?
It is a mandatory approval issued by DTCM that allows licensed operators and organizers to legally conduct desert safari activities in Dubai. The permit covers the use of specialized safari vehicles, including commercial safari vehicles, and requires that safari drivers meet specific licensing standards. The permit process is overseen not only by the DTCM but also by the Dubai department and the transport authority, such as the Road and Transport Authority (RTA), which regulate safari vehicles and driver licensing. This includes tourist safaris, private safari events, influencer shoots, and adventure experiences.
Whether your safari involves dune bashing, camel rides, or live performances at a desert camp, a valid permit ensures that your event is compliant with Dubai’s safety and tourism standards.
Why Does DTCM Require a Safari Permit?
Dubai places high importance on regulated, sustainable tourism. The safari permit process helps:
Ensure tourist and guest safety
Prevent unlicensed or unsafe safari operations
Monitor environmental impact
Track and manage ticketed and promoted experiences
Uphold Dubai’s reputation for professional tourism events
Operating a desert safari in Dubai involves unique challenges, requiring professional desert driving skills and specialized training. Safari drivers must obtain a professional desert driving license or safari driving license, which involves completing an essential course or a professional desert driving course, including both theoretical and practical training. Applicants must successfully complete a training course—such as a one day certificate course or a five day training program—and pass a final assessment to receive a training certificate. Course fees, training materials, and extra training may be required, and beginner training covers recovery techniques, vehicle mechanisms, off road driving, and off roading. Desert driving courses are offered by various tour companies and institutes, and safari driver training is mandatory for safari tour guides, safari guides, and safari drivers. Experienced drivers and new applicants alike must meet medical conditions criteria, and individuals with neck problems, motion sickness, or travel sickness may be disqualified. All the required documents, including a valid UAE driver’s license or RTA driving license, must be submitted as part of the application process.
Operating a safari without a DTCM permit can lead to serious penalties, including event cancellations or business suspension.
Who Needs a Safari Permit in Dubai?
You’ll need a safari permit if you’re organizing:
Tourist desert safari packages (standard or VIP)
Corporate or group safari events
Safari experiences with entertainment or catering
Safari events promoted via digital marketing or influencers
Filming or content shoots involving desert activities
Even free-entry or private safaris hosted through tour agencies or influencers require DTCM clearance.
How to Apply for a Safari Permit in Dubai
Register on the DTCM ePermit Portal
Log in as a licensed operator or partner and select the safari event category. Both local and international investors can register as a desert safari company or as desert safari operators, provided they meet the necessary licensing requirements.Submit Safari Details
Add itinerary info, dates, time slots, number of guests, and activities planned.Attach Required Documents
Upload safety protocols, NOCs (if applicable), activity details, and promotional plans.Get Authority Approvals
Based on your activities, you may need additional clearance from Dubai Police, Civil Defense, or Environmental departments.Pay Fees & Receive Your Permit
After successful review, your Permit is issued digitally via the portal. Permit approvals are typically processed within a business day, but applicants should be prepared for potential logistical challenges in gathering documentation and meeting compliance standards.
Let Ticmint Handle Your Safari Permit Approvals
Managing permit applications, approvals, and marketing compliance can be time-consuming. Dubai’s trusted event and ticketing platform, simplifies the entire workflow:
Apply for safari permits quickly through one dashboard
Upload and manage all required documents in one place
Track approvals, status, and reminders
Align ticketing and promotions with DTCM rules
Monitor marketing analytics from one platform
Want to save time and avoid approval hassles? Let Ticmint manage your entire permit process, including event permits in Dubai from submission to approval. Visit:
https://ticmint.com/ticmint-best-event-ticketing-platform-in-dubai/
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
A DTCM approval required to conduct desert safari experiences legally.
Yes, all organized group safaris must have DTCM approval.
Yes, Ticmint simplifies the full safari permit and event marketing process.
Conclusion
A Safari Permit from DTCM is essential for any desert safari-related experience in Dubai. Whether you’re serving tourists, planning an adventure event, or creating branded desert content, compliance is key to success.
With platforms like Ticmint, you can take the stress out of the process — and focus on delivering an incredible desert experience that’s legal, safe, and market-ready.
To learn more and get in touch, click here.
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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