Are you interested in planning events and wondering how to start an event management company in UAE? If yes, setting up your event management firm can open doors to a growing industry where creativity thrives. UAE is a top destination for expos, exhibitions, conferences, fashion events, wedding and corporate events. Hence creating a huge demand for professional event managers. Whether you are an expert in lifestyle events, product launches, corporate events, or mega the opportunities are endless.
Starting your event management company in the UAE allows you to work in the most dynamic business hubs in the world. The region offers supportive laws, free zones, networking opportunities, easy transportation, modern infrastructure and more. Here are steps to start your event management business, legal requirements and market opportunities.
Why Start an Event Management Company in UAE?
The event management industry is growing due to government support, major expos, sports events, and tourism industry. The market is thriving because of the factors given below:
- A competitive market yet rewarding.
- Demand across lifestyle and corporate industry.
- Access to premium event venues and product suppliers.
- High-budget projects and international audience.
- Opportunities to connect and collaborate with international brands.
- Potential to earn high income due to increasing demand.
How to Start an Event Management Company in UAE?
To start an event management company, you need to follow the steps given below.
Select a Jurisdiction
The first step is to select a jurisdiction for your event management company. You can either choose mainland UAE or one of the free zones. Al Riyady can help you decide the right option based on your business goals.
Choose a Business Structure
There are various legal structures for businesses in the UAE, such as a Limited Liability Company (LLC), sole proprietorship, or a free zone setup. Select the one that aligns with your business goals, operational needs and ownership preferences.
Select Business Activity
Pick event activities for your trade license, such as marketing events, corporate events, exhibitions according to your goals. We can help you pick the permitted activities from the authorities list.
Pick a Trade name
The next step is picking a unique trade name which is compliant with the regulations. Additionally, apply for trade name registration.
Prepare Documents
Gather the required documents for license application and hand it over to our team so that they can review them and submit them to the authorities.
Rent an Office
Secure an office space for your business operations and meeting clients. You can also check out options like virtual offices, and flexi desks. Our team can also help you choose the right option according to your business needs.
Submit License Application
After completing the above mentioned steps, apply for your event management license in UAE, which allows you to operate legally.
Open a Bank Account
Finally, open a corporate bank account according to your business requirement and handle your financial transactions.
Legal Compliance, Visas and VAT
Make sure to stay compliant with the laws:
- If your business revenue is above the threshold set by the government, you must register for VAT in UAE.
- Apply for work permits and visas for your staff.
- Comply with event management and safety regulations (especially during public events).
What is the cost of an Event Management Company Setup?
The cost of starting an event management company in UAE depends on many factors, such as the selected jurisdiction, number of visas, office rent and other requirements, and the mentioned activities. Our team can help you find the exact estimate according to your business activities.
Which Documents are Required to Start an Event Management Company in UAE?
For setting up your event management company in Dubai, you need to gather certain documents. They help authorities verify details and ensure the business activities are compliant with the rules. Here’s what you need:
- Passport-sized photographs
- Copies of shareholders passports.
- List of business activities
- Trade name options.
- UAE residence visa or entry stamp
- NOC from sponsor (if required)
Which Activities are Allowed for an Event Management Company in UAE?
There are a wide range of activities to choose for your event management company depending on your target audience. These activities show what the company is legally allowed to offer to their clients. Some allowed activities are:
- Corporate event planning and execution.
- Product launches and promotional events.
- Marketing and brand launch events.
- Trade shows and exhibitions organization.
- Conferences, workshops and seminars.
- Wedding and private event organization.
- Festivals, and other live events management.
- Event production, lighting sound and stage setup.
- Event logistics and venue sourcing.
- Event consultancy and innovative concept development.
How to Grow and Market Your Event Management Business?
Here how you can grow and market your event management business in the UAE.
Build Your Brand
A strong brand identity is important to attract your target clients in the competitive market of UAE. You can invest in a professional website, social media accounts and ad campaigns. Through consistent branding you can increase visibility and trust among your clients.
Networking
Networking is also one of the most important aspects to make your event management company successful. Through industry events, expos and meeting professional associations you can build connections. Moreover, exceptional customer services and reviews can also help you grow your business.
Adapting Innovation
The UAE is continuously adopting advanced technologies such as AI to get their target customers. By adapting advanced technology and staying ahead of trends, you can become an innovative leader in the UAE market.
Difference Between an Event Permit and License in Dubai
An event permit is different from an event management license in Dubai. A license allows you to legally run your event management company, while you need the permit for each individual event you want to organize.
Event organizers, companies and venues must get their permits in Dubai through the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism’s e-permit system. The process ensures every event is approved by the authority and fulfills all security, safety and public regulations.
How to Apply for an Event Permit in Dubai?
Here is how you can apply for an event permit in Dubai:
- Register on the online e-permit system of DET.
- Provide event details such as type, date and venue.
- Provide supporting documents.
- Pay the applicable fee.
- Receive your approval within five working days.
Different Types of Services under Event Management License
An event management license in Dubai includes a wide range of activities. These services allow event management companies to handle various aspects of an event, from planning to venue arrangements and logistics. Here are some of the main services included:
Event Management
Event management services include handling all events services from start to finish. With an event management license you can manage exhibitions, trade shows, business meetings, weddings. You have to take care of budget, planning, logistics and execution of plans. An event management license allows the company to provide services legally and build the trust of their clients.
Decor Services
Decor hiring is also an important part of event management services in Dubai. You can provide decor items such as furniture, lighting, stages, and seating arrangements. You can also provide customs arrangements according to the chosen theme of your client. Through decor hiring services, companies can provide both basic and luxury arrangements to their customers.
Event Coordination
Event coordination Services focus on smooth execution of every activity linked with an event. Companies with a valid license manage suppliers, vendors and deadlines to provide services on time. They also ensure the events are delivered exactly on time and as planned without any last minute problem.
Venus and Conferences Sourcing Services
Venue sourcing services are necessary for large trade fairs, corporate events and exhibitions. With a valid license you can help clients choose a fitting venue according to their budget and other requirements. Moreover, you can get additional permits, contracts and logistics.
Event Planning Services
Event planning services are more than just coordination, they include creating the whole event structure and concept. With a valid license, companies can help clients with budgeting, themes and schedules. Moreover, their role is also to design event programs and secure venues.
Types of Event Management Licenses in Dubai
Dubai offers various event management licenses to meet the needs of professionals and companies. Each license concentrates on a particular event activity.
Exhibition Organizer license
With this license, companies can organize trade fairs, exhibitions and other corporate events. The organizer license is suitable for businesses offering services for B2B events and networking.
Event Production License
An event production license is suitable for companies providing technical services such as lighting, sound, and stage setup. They provide production equipment and manpower to help run events smoothly.
Ticket Selling License
A ticket selling license is essential to manage entry tickets to concerts, entertainment events and conferences. Businesses can sell tickets to customers, and control ticket distribution and increase profits.
Part Organizing License
The license is for companies that want to focus on weddings, corporate events and private gatherings. You can cover events of all sizes from small to large size banquets. They help with event planning and entertainment services for personal and corporate clients.
Freelance Event Management License
Small businesses and freelancers can get a freelance management license in Dubai. It is suitable for professionals who want to work independently in the industry.
Applicants needs the following documents:
- Visa details
- A Passport copy
- An NOC for a dependent visa
The license is affordable and allows freelancers to partner with large organizations and small projects.
Final Thoughts
Understanding how to start an event management company in the UAE is necessary along with the paperwork, approvals and permits. Whether you are starting a new business or looking to expand an existing one, we have got you covered. Al Riyady can help you get all necessary permits, trade name registrations, bank account opening, choosing a jurisdiction and more.
Our team can also help you with post-incorporation support such as PRO services Dubai, Bookkeeping, Digital Marketing and more.
