How do I register my short-term rental with Dubai Tourism and Commerce Marketing DTCM?

Note: People still say “DTCM registration”, but today this is handled under Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) through the Holiday Homes System.

Direct Answer

To register a short-term rental in Dubai, you create a Holiday Homes System account (owner or operator), add your unit, upload supporting documents, submit the permit application, then self-classify and pay the fees. Once approved, you download the permit and QR code and follow the guest check-in and operational requirements.

Step-by-step registration process

1. Decide how you will register:
   
   • 1. Owner registration: You register as an individual owner and apply per unit.
   • 2. Operator registration: A licensed holiday home operator registers and manages units professionally.
2. 
   Create your Holiday Homes System account: Use your personal details (owner) or company details (operator), then verify and activate the account.


3. Add the unit you want to rent: Enter the unit details carefully. This is where many applications get delayed if information is inconsistent.


4. Upload documents: Commonly requested items include your passport or Emirates ID, title deed, an owner authorisation form, and a DEWA bill in the correct name. Some scenarios may also require extra approvals or NOCs, depending on the building or ownership setup.


5. Submit the permit application: Once submitted, monitor the portal for status updates and any requests for clarification.


6. Complete self-classification: After approval, you complete the self-classification steps inside the system to finalise the unit setup.


7. Pay fees and download your permit: Pay online, then download your e-permit and the unit QR code.


8. Operate compliantly before you host guests: Make sure you meet the ongoing rules, typically around safety readiness, insurance expectations, and guest check-in procedures.

Quick Fact Table

Item	What it is	Why it matters
Holiday Homes account	Your owner or operator profile in the system	Required to apply for unit permits
Unit permit	Approval to rent a specific unit short-term	You should have it before hosting or advertising
Core documents	ID, title deed, authorisation, DEWA bill	Most common reason applications pause
Self-classification	Online classification steps inside the portal	Needed to finalise the permit and unit setup
Permit and QR code	Downloadable e-permit and unit QR identifier	Used for compliance and operational checks