Dubai is one of the best places in the world to start an event management company. From luxury weddings and global conferences to product launches and festivals, the city hosts events throughout the year. If you have a passion for planning and organising events, Dubai gives you unlimited opportunities to grow. And if you need help setting up your business, you can always contact Raes Associates for complete guidance and support.
In this guide, you’ll learn how event management works in Dubai, what licenses you need, how much it costs, and the step-by-step process to start your company.
What Does an Event Management Company Do in the UAE?
An event management company handles everything related to planning and organising events. This includes:
- Creating the event concept and theme
- Budget planning
- Venue selection
- Vendor and supplier coordination
- Stage setup, AV, music, lights
- Marketing and promotions
- Managing registrations, guests, and live operations
- Post-event feedback and reporting
Dubai has a strong event industry, and many well-known companies operate here, including Emerald Events, Entourage, Jannat Events, GEM Events, and Mosaic Live.
Why Do Many People Start an Event Management Business in Dubai?
Here are some simple reasons why Dubai is the best place to launch your event management company:
- Big Demand for Events
Dubai hosts major global events like GITEX Global, Dubai Design Week, Art Dubai, COP28, and luxury weddings. This means continuous demand for event planners.
- Access to International Clients
Since Dubai is a global hub, people fly in from different countries for destination weddings, business meets, cultural shows, and exhibitions.
- High-Income Market
Dubai has many luxury brands and high-net-worth individuals who are willing to spend on grand events.
- Easy Business Setup
The UAE government offers:
- Mainland licenses
- Free zone licenses
- Instant license options
- eTrader license (for freelancers)
If you want help choosing the right license, you can contact Raes Associates for personalised advice.
- Tax Benefits
No personal income tax and minimal VAT help you keep more profit.
- Strong Event Infrastructure
Dubai has world-class hotels, venues, decorators, AV companies, and logistics providers.
- Multicultural Talent
You can hire creative professionals from anywhere in the world.
How to Start an Event Management Company in Dubai (Step-by-Step)
Here is the full process in clear, simple steps:
Step 1: Decide What Type of Events You Want to Manage
Choose your focus area such as:
- Weddings
- Corporate events
- Exhibitions and conferences
- Concerts and festivals
- Product launches
- Private parties
Dubai allows multiple event activities under one license.
Step 2: Choose Between Mainland or Free Zone
Your business location affects your operations.
Mainland License (DED Dubai)
- You can operate anywhere in the UAE
- Full access to local clients
- 100% foreign ownership
- Best for large-scale events
Free Zone License
- Fast and cost-effective
- 100% ownership
- Best for digital event services or international clients
Recommended free zones:
- Dubai Media City
- Dubai South
- DWTC Free Zone
- DMCC
If you want to understand the difference clearly, you can read Raes Associates’ blog on the difference between mainland and free zone in UAE.
Step 3: Choose Your Company Structure
Common structures include:
- Sole Establishment
- LLC
- Civil Company
- Free Zone FZE or FZC
Step 4: Reserve a Trade Name
Your company name must follow UAE naming rules:
- No offensive words
- No religious terms
- No abbreviations
- Must be unique
Include words like “Events”, “Management”, or “Productions”.
Step 5: Get Initial Approval
You must apply for a No-Objection Certificate allowing you to proceed with business setup.
Documents needed:
- Passport copy
- Trade name details
- Application form
Step 6: Prepare the MoA (Mainland Only)
For mainland LLC companies, you must sign a Memorandum of Association.
Step 7: Get an Office or Flexi Desk
Mainland companies must have a physical office.
Free zone companies can use a flexi desk or shared workspace.
Step 8: Apply for Your Event Management License
Submit:
- Initial approval
- Trade name reservation
- Tenancy contract
- MoA (if needed)
- Passport and visa copies
You can apply through:
- DED portal (for mainland)
- Free zone authority portal
If you are confused about document requirements, feel free to contact Raes Associates for help with the complete application process.
Step 9: Get Your Business License
After approval:
- Pay government fees
- Receive your event management trade license
Step 10: Open a Business Bank Account
Popular banks:
- Emirates NBD
- RAKBANK
- Mashreq Neo Biz
- ADIB
Step 11: Apply for Investor and Employee Visas
You’ll need:
- Trade license
- Establishment card
- Tenancy contract
Step 12: Build Your Team and Start Operations
Next steps:
- Build your website
- Create event service packages
- Partner with vendors
- Promote your company on social media
To learn more about business operations in Dubai, you can read our guide on the Dubai public transport system for businesses, which helps you plan logistics for event staff and clients.
Documents Required for Event Management License in Dubai
- Passport copy
- Visa copy
- Emirates ID (if applicable)
- Trade name certificate
- Initial approval
- MoA
- Tenancy contract
- Passport-sized photos
- NOC (if needed)
How Much Does an Event Management License Cost in Dubai?
The cost typically ranges from AED 15,000 to AED 30,000, depending on:
- Mainland or free zone
- Number of activities
- Number of visas
- Office space
- Government approvals
For an accurate cost breakdown, you can connect with Raes Associates for a customised quote.
Start Your Event Management Business in Dubai with Raes Associates
Dubai is one of the most exciting places in the world for event planners. With the right license and business setup, you can enter a fast-growing market filled with opportunities. From choosing your activity and registering your company to getting licenses, visas, and office space, each step needs proper guidance.
If you want a smooth, stress-free setup experience, Raes Associates can handle the entire process for you.
Whether you need help with licenses, documentation, approvals, or choosing between mainland and free zone, our experts are ready to assist.
You can contact Raes Associates anytime to start your event management company in Dubai with full support from start to finish.
