Streamlined Event Licensing in Abu Dhabi: What You Need to Know

Planning an event in Abu Dhabi? Whether it's a business seminar, a sports fundraiser, or a cultural festival, securing an event license is essential. The Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT) mandates licenses for various event categories to ensure compliance with local guidelines. Here’s an overview of the process, requirements, and fees involved in obtaining an event license.

Event Categories Requiring Licenses

Business Events

• Conferences, seminars, and lectures

• Trade fairs and consumer exhibitions

Sports Events

• Competitions and activity days

• Charity sports fundraisers

• Indoor and outdoor sports events

Religious and Charity Events

• Religious ceremonies and lectures

•  Fundraising events and charity bazaars

Entertainment and Leisure Events

•  Musical performances and fashion shows

•  Gaming events and cultural activities

Community and Cultural Events

• Arts and crafts festivals

•  Social gatherings and cooking festivals

If you're unsure whether your event needs a license, the TAMM platform can guide you through the "Find an Event License" service, which also estimates costs and required permits.

Venue Selection and Licensing

After identifying licensing needs, TAMM’s “Find an Event Venue” service provides venue details, including rentable space, facilities, capacity, and location. You can contact venues directly through the platform to finalize arrangements.

Document Requirements

To apply for an event license, the following documents must be submitted:

• Event agenda and letter with event details

• Passport or Emirates ID for UAE residents

•  Emirates ID or passport copy for diplomatic cardholders

•  Recent personal photo

• Contract or No-Objection Certificate (NOC) between the organizer and venue owner

•  Self-introductory form (for GCC and foreign citizens)

• Temporary entry permits (for visitors)

• Relevant approvals from other authorities

• Undertaking letter adhering to DCT guidelines (if serving alcohol)

For Speakers:

• Passport copy and recent photo (for UAE residents)

• Passport copy, UAE visa, and recent photo (for visitors on mission or visit visas)

For Entertainers:

Specific permits are required for entertainers, with additional documents and fees.

Fees and Charges

•  Application Fee: AED 200

•  Speaker Fee: AED 50 (after security approval)

•  Entertainer Fee: AED 500

• Ticket Fee: 10% of the event ticket revenue (if applicable)

Additional charges include:

• AED 500 for late permit submissions or modifications made less than three working days before the event.

Key Points to Note

• Special permits are required for speakers and entertainers.

•  Events serving alcohol must have a specific permit if the venue lacks a license.

•  Nightclub and bar participants must be over 21 years old.

• Complimentary tickets must follow DCT ticketing guidelines.

Final Steps

The licensing process ensures your event aligns with Abu Dhabi's legal and cultural framework. By using the TAMM platform, organizers can simplify the procedure, find suitable venues, and access clear cost breakdowns, allowing for smooth event execution.

Organizing an event in Abu Dhabi is now streamlined, offering convenience while ensuring full compliance with regulations.