Hotel Management in Abu Dhabi Mainland for German nationals
MainlandTourismRegulated Activity

Hotel Management in Abu Dhabi DED

Starting From

AED 10,000

Setup Time

3 Business Days

Visa Quota

0 Visas

Location

Abu Dhabi

About Hotel Management

Setting up a Hotel Management business in Abu Dhabi Mainland as a German citizen is a straightforward process when you understand the specific requirements that apply to Germany-based entrepreneurs. IBA International has helped hundreds of German business owners navigate the licensing, visa, and banking procedures unique to their nationality.

The licensing process at Abu Dhabi DED has been streamlined significantly, with most tourism licences processed within 3 business days. With the recent changes to UAE commercial law, 100% foreign ownership is now available for most mainland activities. The base licence fee is approximately AED 10,000, making it competitively priced for the services included.

At IBA International, we simplify the process of establishing your hotel management business in Abu Dhabi Mainland. From selecting the right licence type to securing your visa and opening a corporate bank account, our experienced team ensures every detail is handled professionally and efficiently.

Why Abu Dhabi DED for Hotel Management?

Abu Dhabi Mainland is widely regarded as one of the UAE's premier destinations for tourism businesses, and for good reason.

The jurisdiction offers capital city strategic advantage, which is particularly valuable for hotel management operations. Additionally, government project access ensures that your business remains competitive in the regional market. Operating on the mainland allows you to trade directly with the local UAE market without restrictions, and you can bid on government contracts — a significant advantage over free zone entities. Office solutions start from AED 6,000 per year for a co-working, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. Trade anywhere in UAE further enhances the appeal of Abu Dhabi DED for hotel management professionals. Furthermore, growing economic diversification positions your hotel management business for long-term success in the region. With Abu Dhabi continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, Abu Dhabi DED remains an excellent choice for both start-ups and established tourism enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

For German nationals specifically, the Abu Dhabi government has fostered a business-friendly environment with streamlined processes that cater to the large German business community.

Capital city strategic advantage
Government project access
Trade anywhere in UAE
Growing economic diversification
100% foreign ownership

Visa Requirements for German Nationals

For German entrepreneurs, the visa process works as follows: German nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 90 days. For business setup, a residence visa is processed after company incorporation. IBA handles the complete immigration procedure — from entry permit to residence visa stamping — so you can focus on launching your hotel management business in Abu Dhabi DED.

Banking for German Business Owners

Opening a corporate bank account for your hotel management company in Abu Dhabi DED: German nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening. Strong German-UAE trade relations facilitate banking processes. IBA has established relationships with major UAE banks and will personally introduce you to relationship managers who understand German business structures.

Document Attestation for German Nationals

Document attestation for German nationals involves: (1) Notarisation in Germany, (2) Attestation by German Federal Foreign Office / Apostille, (3) UAE Embassy attestation in Dubai. IBA provides a complete attestation checklist specific to hotel management businesses to ensure nothing is missed.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid Germany passport (minimum 6 months validity)
2Documents attested by German Federal Foreign Office / Apostille
3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi
4Completed application form for trade licence
5Relevant industry experience documentation
6Detailed business plan or activity description
7Passport-sized photographs with white background
8Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)

Regulatory Note: Hotel Management is a regulated activity in the UAE. Additional approval from DTCM is required. IBA can guide you through the full regulatory process.

Cost Breakdown

ItemCost (AED)
License Fee10,000
Visa Package (per visa)4,000
Ejari Office12,000
Co-Working6,000
Private Office25,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)From AED 26,000

* Costs are indicative and subject to change. Contact IBA for a personalised quote.

Setup Timeline

1

Consultation

Free consultation with IBA to discuss your hotel management business plan and the best Abu Dhabi DED licence options for German nationals.

2

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from Germany through German Federal Foreign Office / Apostille and the UAE Embassy.

3

Licence Application

Submit the hotel management licence application to Abu Dhabi DED. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.

4

Trade Licence Issued

Receive your official Abu Dhabi DED trade licence within 3–6 business days.

5

Visa Processing

Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. German nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 90 days.

6

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. German nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening.

7

Start Operations

Your hotel management business is ready to operate in the UAE. IBA provides ongoing PRO, accounting, and compliance support.

Total estimated time: 3 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Since the UAE's 2020 Commercial Companies Law amendment, German nationals can own 100% of most mainland business activities including hotel management.

Get Started Today

Ready to set up your hotel management in Abu Dhabi DED? Our team is here to help.

SPEAK TO AN ADVISORWHATSAPP US

Quick Facts

JurisdictionAbu Dhabi DED
Typemainland
EmirateAbu Dhabi
License FeeAED 10,000
Setup Time3 days
Visa Quota0
Activity Code55100

Official Source

added.gov.ae

By IBA Business Setup Team

Last updated: 26 February 2026

International Business Advisors DMCC has been helping entrepreneurs set up businesses in the UAE since 2004, with 20+ years of hands-on expertise.

Ready to Start Your Hotel Management?

Get a personalised quote for setting up your hotel management in Abu Dhabi DED. Our advisors are ready to guide you through every step.