What is the role of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism in short-term rentals?

The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), formerly known as the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM), plays a crucial role in regulating short-term rentals in Dubai. Here’s how the DET is involved:

1. Issuing Permits for Short-Term Rentals

   • To operate a short-term rental (e.g., Airbnb) legally, property owners or tenants must obtain a holiday home permit from the DET. This permit ensures that the property complies with the necessary safety and quality standards. Both individual owners and property management companies can apply for this permit through the DET's online portal​.

   
   

2. Enforcement of Regulations

   • The DET is responsible for ensuring that all short-term rental properties adhere to Dubai's regulations, including guest safety, occupancy limits, and building standards. The department conducts regular inspections to verify that properties maintain hygiene, safety, and other requirements​.

   
   

3. Collection of the Tourism Dirham Fee

   • Short-term rental operators are required to collect the Tourism Dirham Fee from guests, which ranges from AED 10 to AED 15 per room per night, depending on the property's classification. This fee is remitted to the DET monthly and is used to support Dubai’s tourism initiatives​.

   
   

4. Handling Complaints and Violations

   • The DET monitors compliance with short-term rental rules. Hosts operating without a permit can face fines of up to AED 5,000. They also handle disputes between guests and property owners if they fall under their jurisdiction​.

By overseeing these aspects, the DET ensures that Dubai’s short-term rental market continues to grow while maintaining high standards for tourism and residential harmony.