How to register short-term rental property in Abu Dhabi
Short-term rentals, also known as vacation home rentals, have become increasingly popular in Abu Dhabi. Understanding the registration process through the Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT) is essential for property owners looking to capitalise on this trend. Let’s examine the steps and documents required for registering short-term rental property through DCT Abu Dhabi.
About Short-Term Rental in Abu Dhabi
Short-term rentals in Abu Dhabi refer to entire private homes or apartments, not individual rooms. Owners must obtain a licence from the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi to rent a holiday home.
The department has established guidelines for property owners and operators to regulate short-term rentals. These guidelines cover licencing requirements and rental practices. A key piece of legislation is Decision No. (3) of 2020 outlines the procedures for organising and licencing holiday homes in Abu Dhabi.
Here is the eligibility criteria for a property to be registered as a holiday home:
- The housing unit must be independent.
- The property must meet adequate security, safety, environmental, health and public tranquillity standards.
- Basic service facilities must be available.
- Occupancy limits per room are set at a maximum of three persons.
- Halls and corridors cannot be used as bedrooms.
- Units cannot be subdivided for rental purposes.
- Only rentable units are eligible for licencing, excluding “farm” properties and units designated for social cases.
- Units with demolition permits cannot be used for short-term rentals.
Documents required for Abu Dhabi Short-term Rental Registration via DCT
The first step in the short-term rental registration process is completing the necessary paperwork. Here is a list of the documents needed for online registration of short-term rental property in Abu Dhabi.
- Provide two copies of the owner’s passport or Emirates ID card.
- Submit a valid insurance certificate for the rental unit.
- Provide a copy of Tawtheeq. This document should clearly state the unit’s location, boundaries, area, owner, previous actions and amendments.
- Depending on the specific unit and its requirements, the DCT may request additional documents, such as a lease contract or legal possession deed.
If an authorised operator is managing the short-term rental, the following documents must be submitted:
- The operator’s commercial licence.
- A copy of the operator’s passport or Emirates ID card.
- A rental good conduct certificate for the operator.
Procedure for Short-term Rental Registration via DCT Abu Dhabi
Property owners or legal entities must submit an online application to register a short-term rental in Abu Dhabi. Tenants cannot rent their units for short-term stays without the owner’s consent.
Here is the step-by-step guide for registering short-term rental property DCT Abu Dhabi:
- Visit the DCT website and select “Holiday Homes in Abu Dhabi” under e-services.
- Create an account by providing the necessary information.
- Log in to your account.
- Click on “Apply for HH Permit.”
- Enter your Tawtheeq number.
- Verify your contract details and upload the required documents (insurance certificate and Tawtheeq copy).
- Agree to the terms and conditions and submit your application.
- Await approval.
- Once approved, log in again and pay the required fee.
- Review the tax invoice and agree to the terms before paying.
- After payment, access your dashboard to download your receipt and permit.
Fees for Abu Dhabi Short-term Rental Registration DCT
SERVICE | FEES |
|---|---|
SERVICE Modifications in Holiday Homes Licence | FEES AED 150 |
SERVICE Issuance of ‘To whom it may Concern’ letter | FEES AED 160 |
SERVICE Request to issue copy of any related document for the Holiday Homes activity | FEES AED 160 |
SERVICE Amendments on Classification Certificate (if applicable) | FEES AED 160 |
SERVICE Amendments request on the approval for renting licenced Holiday Homes | FEES AED 160 |
SERVICE Licencing /renewal fees for the Holiday Homes activity | FEES AED 900 |
SERVICE Re-inspection fees | FEES AED 1,040 |
SERVICE Issuance of Classification Certificate (if applicable) | FEES AED 1,040 |
SERVICE Registration in the online system for Holiday Homes | FEES AED 1,550 |
FAQS
What is the contact number of the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi?
You can reach the Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT) in Abu Dhabi by calling +971-2-444-0444 or their toll-free number at +971-800-555.
How much does renewing the licence for Abu Dhabi Short-term Rental Registration DCT cost?
The fee for renewing a short-term rental licence in Abu Dhabi through the Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT) is AED 900.
Can tenants rent out their units for short-term stays?
No, tenants are not permitted to rent their units for short-term stays without the owner’s consent.
That’s everything you need to know about the procedure for short-term rental registration via DCT Abu Dhabi. By following these steps and adhering to the guidelines set by the DCT, property owners can ensure compliance with local regulations and maximise their rental income.
Considering a more extended stay in the capital but not keen on renting an entire apartment? Hotel apartments in Abu Dhabi offer a great alternative, combining a home’s comfort with a hotel’s convenience.
Looking to rent out your Dubai property for short-term stays? Our guide on short-term rental contracts in Dubai provides the essential information you need.
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