Dubai is one of the world’s top tourist destinations, and the demand for professional tour guides is constantly growing. If you’re passionate about sharing the city’s culture, history, and hidden gems with visitors, you can turn that passion into a career by getting a tour guide license through Dubai’s official training program.

Here’s a simple breakdown of the entire process—from eligibility and required documents, to training details and costs.

What Is the Dubai Tour Guide Program?

Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) offers a structured certification program for those who wish to become licensed tour guides. The program is available in English and Mandarin, and once certified, you are allowed to guide tours in any language you speak fluently—not just the language of the course you completed.

Who Can Apply?

To be eligible for the license, you must meet the following criteria:

• Be at least 18 years old

• Hold a high school diploma (minimum)

• Possess good conduct (no criminal record)

• Have English language proficiency at Level 5 or above (upper-intermediate or higher)

• Hold a valid Emirates ID and residency

• Obtain a valid First Aid certification from a UAE-based training center

Required Documents

When applying for the license, you’ll need to submit the following:

• A No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your sponsor or employer

• A certified academic certificate (high school or higher)

• Proof of English language proficiency (Level 5 or above)

• A First Aid certificate issued in the UAE

• A certificate of good conduct from Dubai Police

• A valid Emirates ID

• A recent passport-size photograph with a white background

Make sure all documents are up-to-date and, if issued from outside the UAE, properly attested and translated.

The Application Process

1. Create an account on the official Tour Guide Training website.

2. Upload your documents for verification.

3. Once your documents are approved, you’ll be enrolled in the Dubai Tour Guide Program.

4. Complete the program in stages:

   • Introductory training (Dubai Way)

   • Knowledge assessment and interview

   • Practical skills assessment (including an in-person tour demo)

5. After successfully passing all parts, you’ll receive your official tour guide license.

The training is partly online and partly in-person, depending on the stage. You’ll have up to 90 days to complete the program from the time your documents are verified.

Course Fees and Payment

The program comes at a cost, but the fees are paid in stages, making it manageable. Here’s the breakdown:

• For the English course, the total cost is AED 7,520

• For the Mandarin course, the total cost is AED 10,040

Each course is paid in three stages, corresponding to the parts of the program. You’ll only pay for the next stage once you complete the previous one.

Good news for UAE nationals: The entire course is free for Emiratis.

After Certification

Once you’re licensed, you’ll be able to work as a professional tour guide across Dubai. You’ll receive an official badge or license ID, which must be displayed during your tours. The license is valid for two years, after which you can renew it by completing a short update course and paying a renewal fee.

Final Tips

• Book your assessments early, as slots can fill quickly

• Make sure your First Aid certification stays valid throughout your license period

• Don’t delay your application—processing and training can take time

• Even if you take the course in English, you can conduct tours in other languages you speak

Start Your Journey

Becoming a tour guide in Dubai not only opens doors to an exciting career but also allows you to share the city’s magic with the world. Whether you’re a resident looking for a new opportunity or someone passionate about tourism, this is your chance to turn your knowledge into a profession.

Apply today, and take the first step toward guiding visitors through one of the most vibrant cities on Earth.