Short answer: to choose a travel agency or tour operator in the UAE, check that it holds a valid trade licence, ask for an itemised quote with taxes and visa fees, read the cancellation and refund terms, confirm what the travel insurance covers, and pay by a traceable method rather than cash.
Key takeaways
- Check the agency’s licence and, if relevant, its IATA accreditation for airline tickets.
- Ask for an itemised quote: flights, hotels, transfers, tours, visa fees, taxes and agency fees.
- Read the cancellation and refund terms before you pay a deposit.
- Get every booking confirmation in writing and keep copies of tickets and vouchers.
What should you check about the agency?
- A valid trade licence issued by the emirate’s economic or tourism authority.
- IATA accreditation if the agency issues airline tickets, which you can verify with IATA.
- A real office address, a landline and a company email, not only messaging apps.
- Clear terms and conditions and a named contact for problems.
What should an itemised quote show?
| Item | What to confirm |
|---|---|
| Flights | Airline, dates, baggage, change and refund rules |
| Hotels | Name, room type, meals, check-in and out dates |
| Transfers and tours | Included or optional, group or private |
| Visa and insurance | Who applies, the fee and the processing time |
| Taxes and agency fee | Included in the total or added later |
How do cancellations and refunds work?
Airline tickets, hotels and tour packages each have their own rules, and the cheapest options are often non-refundable. Ask the agency which parts can be changed or refunded, how long a refund takes and whether the agency charges its own cancellation fee. Consider travel insurance for non-refundable bookings and medical cover abroad, and read what it excludes.
How should you pay?
Use a card or a bank transfer to the company’s account in the agency’s registered name, and get a receipt. Avoid paying cash or sending money to a personal account.
What are the red flags?
- A price far below airlines’ and hotels’ own rates for the same dates.
- Vague answers about visas, taxes or what is included.
- Pressure to pay a deposit immediately to hold the price.
- Tickets or vouchers that you cannot verify with the airline or hotel.
How do you find a travel agency in the directory?
Browse travel agencies and tour operators in the UAE and request the same itemised quote from two or three of them.
Related guides: How to Choose a Hotel or Serviced Apartment in the UAE
Frequently asked questions
How can I check an airline ticket is real?
Use the airline’s manage-booking page with your booking reference, or ask the agency for the e-ticket number and verify it with the airline.
Who handles my visa?
The quote should say who applies, what the fee is and how long it takes. Check the current entry requirements of your destination with its embassy.
Is travel insurance worth buying?
It can cover medical costs and some cancellations. Read what it excludes before you buy.
Should I pay cash?
It is safer to pay by card or to the company’s registered bank account and keep the receipt.
Sources
This guide is general information. Visa and entry rules change, so confirm them with the relevant embassy, airline or authority before you travel.
Related businesses: Travel Agencies & Tour Operators in the UAE
SNTTA Travel & Tours
Liberty Building, Ground Floor, Sheikh Rashid Road, Al Garhoud, Deira, Dubai, UAE
Al Futtaim Travel
Burjuman Centre, Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Road, Mankhool, Bur Dubai, Dubai, UAE
Deira Travel & Tourist Agency
34 Street, Centurion Star A Building, Floor 9, Port Saeed, Deira, Dubai, UAE
Travel Saga Tourism
Al Saef 1 Street, Signature Hotel, Ground Floor, Barsha Heights (TECOM), Dubai, UAE
Al Rostamani Travel & Holidays
Al Wasl Centre, Sheikh Zayed Road, Trade Centre Area, Dubai, UAE
Kanoo Travel
26, 27A Street, Al Karama, Bur Dubai, Dubai, UAE
Cozmo Travel
Shop No. 10, Al Souk Al Kabeer, Near Metro Exit No. 3, Al Fahidi,…
Green Apple Travel & Tourism
Office 408, Nasser Lootah Building, Consulate Area, Khalid Bin Al Waleed Road, Bur Dubai,…