Dubai holiday home permits are valid for one year and must be renewed before expiry if the property will continue operating as a holiday home. DET currently requires supporting property and owner documents, an updated Property Management Letter where relevant and payment of the applicable permit renewal fee.
If you already operate a holiday home in Dubai, getting the original permit is only the beginning.
The permit does not continue indefinitely.
Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism states that holiday home permits are granted for one year and must be renewed before expiry if the property will continue accepting short term guests.
For first time applicants, read the HiGuests guide to getting a holiday home licence in Dubai first.
Documents Currently Required by DET
As of September 2026, DET lists documents including:
• Title deed
• Developer NOC where applicable
• Signed passport copy or Emirates ID of the landlord
• Company documents where the landlord is a company
• Identification for an authorised signatory
• Property Management Letter where applicable
• Current DEWA bill
DET may request additional documents depending on the property.
How the Renewal Process Works
DET currently describes the process as:
- Log into the Holiday Homes portal
- Select the renewal option
- Submit supporting documents
- Review the application
- Complete property classification
- Pay the applicable fee
The stated service time is one business day, although individual applications can depend on whether all information is correct.
How Much Does Renewal Cost?
DET currently lists the unit permit renewal charge as AED 300 per bedroom each year, plus AED 10 Knowledge Fee and AED 10 Innovation Fee, with the DET page stating a maximum of AED 1,200 per unit.
Always confirm current DET fees before publishing or applying because government charges can change.
Important Reasons Renewal Can Become More Complicated
DET notes several important situations.
If ownership has changed, the new owner may need to register the unit as a new unit rather than simply renew the old permit.
DET also states that properties cannot qualify where the Sale and Purchase Agreement explicitly prevents Holiday Home operation.
Do Not Leave Renewal Until the Last Minute
Permit expiry can interrupt legal operation and create unnecessary administrative work.
Owners working with a professional operator should confirm who is responsible for monitoring permit dates and preparing documentation.
HiGuests manages the operational side of holiday homes as part of its Dubai Airbnb property management service.
FAQs
How long is a Dubai holiday home permit valid?
One year according to DET.
Can a permit renew automatically?
DET states that existing permits are not automatically renewed.
Can I renew after selling the property?
A change of landlord can require the new owner to register the property as a new unit.
How many holiday home units can an individual homeowner register?
DET currently states that homeowners can register up to eight Holiday Home units.
