Are you looking to make the most of your time in Dubai and turn your passion for travel into a career? Becoming a tour guide in Dubai is the perfect way to do just that! As one of the most sought-after destinations in the world, Dubai has a wealth of opportunities for aspiring tour guides. In this blog post, we’ll explore all the necessary steps to become a successful tour guide in Dubai.
We’ll cover everything from the qualifications and certification required to the best practices for leading tours in the city. So, if you’re ready to start your journey to becoming a tour guide in Dubai, read on!
Tourism Industry in Dubai
Dubai is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. With its modern architecture, world-renowned shopping and dining opportunities, and incredible natural beauty, it’s no wonder that tourists flock to Dubai every year. If you’re considering a career in tourism and would like to become a tour guide in Dubai, you’ll need to understand the tourism industry in this vibrant city.
Dubai has a highly developed and regulated tourism industry. The Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) licenses tour operators, sets safety standards for attractions, and regulates tour guide qualifications. To work as a tour guide in Dubai, you must be a licensed tour operator with an approved permit from the DTCM.
In addition to obtaining a permit, you’ll need to acquire certain qualifications. These include knowledge of local customs and laws, basic language skills, and a working knowledge of the history and culture of Dubai. You may also need to pass a criminal background check. Once you’ve acquired all the necessary qualifications, you can start working as a tour guide in Dubai.
It’s important to keep up with the changing landscape of tourism in Dubai. Technology is playing an increasingly important role in the tourism industry, and tour guides will need to understand how to use new apps and programs to better serve their customers. Tour guides should also stay informed about new attractions and events that are happening in Dubai.
If you have an enthusiasm for travel, history, and culture, and an aptitude for customer service, becoming a tour guide in Dubai could be a great career choice for you. With the right qualifications, experience, and knowledge, you can become an invaluable part of the tourism industry in Dubai.
Growth of Tourism Sector in Dubai
Dubai has become one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations in recent years, thanks to its diverse attractions, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. The city is also home to some of the world’s most luxurious hotels and resorts, making it an ideal place for visitors from all over the world.
With this growing popularity, the demand for tour guides in Dubai has seen a rapid increase as well. Tour guides are responsible for taking people around the city, sharing facts and information about the area, providing advice on the best places to eat and shop, and ensuring that visitors have a safe and enjoyable experience.
Once you do get licensed, you can work full-time, part-time, or as a freelancer. You can work for an organization such as tourism agencies or a specific individual tourist agent, or you can contact customers online using online sites such as those that help people find places to visit or to stay while they are in Dubai.
What are the benefits of being a tour guide in Dubai?
Being a tour guide in Dubai offers many benefits that make the job both rewarding and enjoyable. The city is one of the most exciting tourist destinations in the world, with stunning attractions, shopping opportunities, and luxurious nightlife.
For starters, tour guides get to experience Dubai from a unique perspective. As a tour guide, you’ll be able to show tourists around some of the most iconic attractions such as Burj Khalifa, The Dubai Mall, and the Palm Jumeirah. You’ll also have the chance to visit popular tourist spots like the Dubai Fountain, the Gold Souk, and Sheikh Zayed Road.
As a tour guide in Dubai, you can expect to make a good salary. With the cost of living in Dubai being high, the wages for tour guides are generally higher than in other cities. Additionally, you will be able to take advantage of discounts and special offers when booking tickets and hotels.
The work hours are flexible and you will be able to decide how much or how little you want to work. You can also choose to specialize in certain types of tours, allowing you to focus on areas that interest you.
Finally, being a tour guide in Dubai provides you with a great opportunity to meet people from all over the world. You can help visitors learn about the culture and history of the city and make their experience even more memorable.
As you can see, being a tour guide in Dubai is a great way to explore this amazing city while making a decent income. If you have a passion for travel and an enthusiasm for helping people, this could be a rewarding career choice for you.
Documents needed to apply
If you’re considering becoming a tour guide in Dubai, there are a few important documents you’ll need to have in order to apply.
Documents needed
You would need to keep copies of the following documents:
• No Objection letter from your sponsor
• Police Clearance Certificate from Dubai Police.
• High School Completion Certificate (12th grade or higher)
• English Proficiency Certificate
• First Aid Certificate
• Emirates ID
• Passport-sized photo
What are the requirements to become a tour guide in Dubai?
In Dubai, you can become an English or Mandarin speaking tour guide by completing training and obtaining the necessary licensing from Dubai Tourism’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM). To receive licenese you must pass the assessment.
To apply, follow these steps:
1. Visit the Dubai Tourism website – https://www.dubaitourism.gov.ae/en/services/apply-for-tour-guide-training
2. Click on ‘Apply Now’. You will be directed to the tour guide training website, where you will first need to create an account. Then, submit your application by uploading the required documents.
Your application will be verified by the Dubai College of Tourism team. Successful applicants will be invited for an interview.
3. Attend interview – Applicants undertake an interview and numeracy and English language assessment. Both will happen on the same day. Successful applicants will be notified that they have been offered a place at Dubai College of Tourism.
4. Make initial payment – you will then be asked to make an initial payment of Dh750.
5. Initial assessment – Tour guides undergo an initial assessment. If successful, they then proceed to the next stage. A further payment of Dh1,500 will be required to proceed with this stage. Tour guides will undergo a knowledge assessment and interview at Dubai College of Tourism. If successful, they then proceed to the third and final stage.
A final payment of Dh5,270 is required to proceed with this stage. Tour guides will undergo guiding skills training and assessment.
6. Practical assessment – After completion of all the training stages, tour guides select an appointment for a final practical assessment at Dubai College of Tourism. Tour guides have two attempts to pass this assessment.
7. Receive tour guide licence – Successful completion of the course will be rewarded with a tour guide licence issued by DTCM and valid for two years.
Licence cost
English – Dh7,500
Mandarin – Dh10,000
Dh20 – Knowledge and innovation fee
Applying for a tour guide licence in Dubai
The first step in becoming a tour guide in Dubai is to apply for a licence from Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM). You can find more information about the application process on their website. The requirements for obtaining a licence vary depending on your nationality and level of experience. Generally speaking, you will need to have basic knowledge of the history, culture, and geography of the UAE and be able to speak two languages fluently.
Once you have obtained your licence, you will be able to work as a tour guide in Dubai. To do so, you must register with the Dubai Tourism Department. This involves filling out an online form and submitting supporting documents such as your passport, visa, and proof of address. Once registered, you will be able to start working as a tour guide in Dubai.
To ensure that you are providing the best possible service to your guests, it is important to stay up-to-date with current events, attractions, and activities happening in the city. You should also familiarize yourself with local laws and customs as well as safety regulations to ensure that your guests have an enjoyable experience.
Becoming a tour guide in Dubai is a rewarding and fulfilling job that allows you to explore the city while helping others discover its beauty. By following the above steps and ensuring that you stay up-to-date with local laws and events, you can be sure that you will be providing the best possible service to your guests. Good luck!
