Whether you’re starting a safari business or expanding your existing tours, here’s how to apply for a DTCM-approved safari permit in Dubai. Establishing a desert safari business in Dubai requires thorough market research and careful planning to ensure success in this competitive industry. The startup cost for a desert safari business in Dubai can range from AED 25,000 to AED 35,000 for licensing and approvals, which are regulated by the Road and Transport Authority (RTA) to ensure compliance and safety. The total operational budget for a desert safari company may vary from AED 100,000 to AED 300,000.
It is an official license issued by DTCM Dubai that allows tourism companies, including various tour companies and reputable safari companies, to legally operate desert safari experiences.
This permit is required for events—learn more about event permits and legal requirements. Dubai is known around the world for its intriguing desert adventure tourism endeavors, attracting visitors from all over the world and making the city a prime location for such activities thanks to its robust infrastructure supporting desert tourism.
Morning, evening, and overnight desert safaris operated by tour companies and safari companies
Private or group safari tours
Desert events with BBQs, entertainment, or cultural shows
Adventure activities like sandboarding or quad biking
Who Needs to Apply for a DTCM Safari Permit?
You need to apply if you are:
tourism or travel company offering desert safari packages
An event organizer planning desert-based experiences
A DMC (Destination Management Company) operating in Dubai
A vehicle operator offering 4×4 safari experiences in Dubai’s deserts
A driver of commercial safari vehicles, as Dubai locally mandates all such drivers to possess a safari driving license or safari driver’s license. To obtain this license, you must complete a five-day safari driver training program, also known as a five day training and considered an essential course for those seeking a safari driving license. This complete course includes both theoretical knowledge and practical training, covering off roading skills and knowledge about driving on dunes. Practical training is a key component, ensuring drivers are prepared for the challenging dunes of the Dubai desert. Only those who complete the required training can operate a commercial safari vehicle.
The five-day essential course costs AED 5,020. Applicants must also have a valid UAE driver’s license issued at least six months prior, be a minimum of 140 cm tall, and be at least 25 years old to qualify for a professional desert driving license if they are safari tour guides. Additionally, you must successfully complete a final assessment after the training course to receive certification. The validity period of a safari driver’s license is one year.
The one-day certificate course, which serves as beginner training, teaches the basics of off-road driving, vehicle mechanisms, and recovery techniques. The professional desert driving course leads to an RTA driving license for safari tour guides. Course fees for the one-day desert driving certificate range from AED 1,560 to AED 1,685 depending on the course type. For the professional desert driving course, extra training costs AED 840 (excluding VAT). All course fees are non refundable.
Desert driving courses are offered by recognized institutions such as Al Ahli Driving Centre and Dubai College of Tourism (Dubai College). These institutes are authorized to issue licenses for safari drivers in Dubai and other emirates, with the Emirates regulating safari driving and licensing requirements. Individuals must hold a valid UAE driver’s license or an international driver’s license to register for desert driving courses. Training materials and emergency contact information are provided to participants upon enrolling in a desert driving course.
Desert driving courses are essential for both beginners and experienced drivers to learn how to handle the unique challenges of off roading in the desert, especially on dunes. The journey to becoming a certified safari driver emphasizes the importance of knowledge and practical skills for safe desert driving.
Eligibility criteria specify that individuals with travel sickness or neck problems are not advised to participate in desert driving activities. Visitors to Dubai can also enroll in desert driving courses, subject to eligibility.
Safety equipment such as shovels and car jacks is recommended for use during desert driving courses.
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for a Safari Permit in Dubai
1. Register on the DTCM Portal
Start by registering your tourism business with Dubai Tourism’s official DTCM portal. You must have a valid trade license from the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED), and for event-related activities, ensure you understand the requirements for a DTCM counter permit.
2. Log in and Fill the Safari Permit Application
Once registered, log in to the DTCM system and select the “Safari Permit” under activity permits. Fill in the details about the tour, date, time, location, and vehicle information.
3. Upload Required Documents
Submit scanned copies of all the required documents to complete the account verification process:
Valid trade license
Tour itinerary
Vehicle registration details
Tour guide certification (if applicable)
Insurance documents
After successful completion, make sure to obtain a hard copy of your safari driver’s license or training certificate for official use.
4. Pay the Permit Fees
Safari permit fees vary based on the type and duration of the safari. Payment can be made directly through the portal using a secure payment gateway. Payment processing or permit approval is typically completed within one business day.
5. Await DTCM Approval
Once submitted, your permit application will be reviewed by DTCM. You may be contacted for further details or inspection. Approval time may vary based on the nature of the event and documentation provided.
Important DTCM Guidelines for Safari Permits in Dubai
To stay compliant with Dubai Tourism, all approved safari operators must:
Use licensed desert vehicles
Hire certified and trained safari guides
Ensure guest safety and first aid availability
Avoid damaging desert wildlife and ecosystems
Operate within approved areas and timings
Ensure that individuals with medical conditions such as severe backaches or motion sickness are not permitted to drive safari vehicles
Adhere to all safari permit regulations and safety standards as set by the transport authority (such as the Roads and Transport Authority, RTA), which oversees licensing, regulation, and approval processes for desert safari operations
How Ticmint Helps with Safari Permit & Desert Event Management
If you’re managing safari tours or desert events, using a platform like can streamline operations. From handling online bookings and permits to managing guest lists and payments, Ticmint‘s event management software is tailored for tourism businesses in the UAE. It integrates with permit guidelines and helps you stay compliant while growing your desert safari brand. International investors can operate a desert safari company in Dubai. Dubai offers a variety of desert driving courses, including a one-day certificate course and a professional desert driving course. For more information about the event ticketing platform, Please click here – https://ticmint.com/ticmint-best-event-ticketing-platform-in-dubai/
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, all desert safari operators in Dubai must have a DTCM-approved permit.
No, only registered tourism companies with a trade license can apply.
Yes, Dubai Tourism charges a fee depending on the type of safari.
Yes, if disclosed in the application and approved by DTCM.
Conclusion
Securing a DTCM Safari Permit in Dubai is essential to legally operate desert safaris. The process is straightforward if you follow the right steps and provide the necessary documentation. With Dubai Tourism ensuring high standards, holding a valid permit not only keeps you compliant but also builds credibility with tourists.
Whether you’re just starting or scaling your safari operations, apply for your Dubai safari permit today and offer unforgettable experiences in the heart of the desert. Keep in mind that the months of October through April are the busiest for desert safari tours in Dubai, making it an ideal time to attract more tourists. Successful administration of a desert safari business in Dubai involves many operational and logistical challenges. Promoting a desert safari business can be done by collaborating with hotels and posting on travel websites.
Stay tuned for more updates and detailed guides on desert safari licensing in Dubai.
Ready to streamline your DTCM safari permit approval with Ticmint
Use Ticmint to simplify your permit process and launch your desert event with confidence. To learn more and get in touch, click here –https://ticmint.com/ticmint-best-event-ticketing-platform-in-dubai/
Want to know how Ticmint can help your business?
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