Dubai’s short-term rental market is facing stricter enforcement, particularly for property owners listing on platforms like Airbnb. While Decree No. 41 of 2013 has long governed holiday home rentals, the newly released 2025 guide from the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) reinforces compliance measures—and unlicensed listings are now at risk of removal.
In this blog, we’ll break down what these updated regulations mean, the steps to take if you missed the compliance deadline, and the potential penalties for non-compliance.
Key requirements and restrictions
To operate legally in Dubai, holiday home operators must ensure their properties are fully licensed and registered. With authorities intensifying enforcement, staying compliant is crucial to avoid penalties and maintain seamless operations.
Compliance with safety & quality standards
The 2025 regulations outline stricter safety requirements, including fire safety, electrical inspections, and mandatory emergency equipment such as smoke alarms and fire extinguishers. Installation of smartlocks through the Keyless app, governed by SIRA are no longer optional but compulsory. These measures are designed to protect guests, enhance overall quality, and maintain Dubai’s reputation as a top-tier tourism destination.
Restrictions on the number of units
To prevent market saturation and maintain property standards, the updated regulations reiterate that individual landlords can operate a maximum of eight units under a Holiday Homes licence. This ensures that short-term rental operators maintain high-quality offerings while preventing an oversupply of unmanaged properties.
Importance of Holiday Home Regulations
As Dubai continues to grow in popularity, with holiday homes becoming increasingly sought after, tighter regulations are necessary to ensure the safety of tenants and landlords alike.
For landlords, adherence to these regulations is crucial for maintaining competitiveness. Compliance ensures that only licensed properties operate as holiday homes, preserving market integrity and consistent quality standards. Additionally, it guarantees that operators follow government guidelines, creating a level playing field for all participants.
A primary objective of these regulations is to protect guests’ safety and well-being. By mandating that properties meet safety criteria. Well-maintained, safe properties not only enhance guest experiences but also bolster Dubai’s reputation as a trusted tourism destination.
Procedures and steps to register your holiday homes
Dubai’s regulatory framework ensures that holiday home rentals meet specific standards, safeguarding both guests and the community. The DET’s guidelines stipulate that property owners must secure a holiday home licence and register their units prior to listing on short-term rental platforms. Don’t worry—here’s what you’ll need to do, along with the necessary documents, to get back on track.
- Create an account: Register on the DET’s Holiday Homes portal.
- Submit required documents:
a. For Individual Owners: Passport or Emirates ID, and property title deed.
b. For Professional Operators: Commercial licence indicating ‘Vacation Homes Rental’ as the business activity. - Application review: DET will assess the submission to ensure compliance with all regulations.
- Payment: Upon approval, pay the applicable fees to receive the licence.
Registration and permitting fees
The cost of obtaining a holiday home licence in Dubai varies based on the property’s type and size. Here’s a breakdown of the typical fees involved:
1. Registration and inspection fees:
- Registration fee: AED 1,520 (includes Knowledge and Innovation fees).
- Inspection fee: AED 320 for the mandatory property inspection.
2. Permit issuance fees
- Each bedroom: AED 300
- Each unit: AED 70 (Inclusive of knowledge and innovation fees)
Potential penalties for non-compliance
Operating a holiday home without the necessary licence can lead to significant repercussions. Failure to renew your licence before the renewal period ends will result in an AED 500 fee. Furthermore, if you continue to operate your property as a holiday home while under suspension, you’ll incur an AED 20,000 fee from DET.
If you fail to license your holiday home and continue leasing your unit regularly, a fine of AED 5,000 will be imposed. If your unit is licensed but you fail to meet the required terms and conditions, a fine of AED 500 will be applied.
Why choose haus & haus holidays for your property management needs?
Avoid the complexities of Dubai’s short-term rental market. A professional property management company like haus & haus Holidays takes the hassle out of every aspect—from compliance and licensing to daily operations. Maintain flexibility over your property, maximise your returns, and ensure your home meets regulatory standards while providing top-tier guest experiences.
With demand for holiday homes at an all-time high, now is the perfect time to enter the market with the right support.
Get in touch with haus & haus Holidays today and let us handle everything, ensuring your investment remains stress-free and profitable.