Short answer: to choose an event planner or wedding planner in the UAE, define your budget and guest numbers first, ask for a written proposal with itemised costs, check that the planner and the venue hold the required licences and permits, and agree the payment schedule and cancellation terms in a signed contract.
Key takeaways
- Set your date, guest count and total budget before you approach planners.
- Ask for an itemised proposal and a signed contract covering services, payments and cancellation.
- Public or large events usually need permits from the local authority, so ask who obtains them.
- Visit the venue, meet the team who will run the day and ask for recent examples.
What should you decide before contacting planners?
- Date, location, number of guests and type of event.
- Total budget, including a reserve for unexpected costs.
- Must-haves such as catering, photography, décor or entertainment.
- Cultural or dietary requirements, such as halal catering.
What should a proposal include?
| Item | What to confirm |
|---|---|
| Services | Planning only, or full design, vendors and day-of management |
| Vendors | Which are included, and whether prices are fixed or estimates |
| Fees | Planner’s fee as a fixed amount or a percentage of the budget |
| VAT | Whether the 5% VAT is included in each price |
| Timeline | Key dates for decisions and payments |
Which permits and approvals are needed?
Venues and large or public events normally need approvals from the relevant local authorities, and some entertainment, music or alcohol service needs its own permit. Ask the planner which permits your event needs, who applies and how long it takes, and ask the venue about its own rules and any required contractors.
What should the contract cover?
- Services, dates, venue and deliverables.
- A payment schedule and what the deposit is for.
- Cancellation and postponement terms, and what is refundable.
- What happens if a vendor cannot deliver.
- Who is the day-of contact.
What are the red flags?
- No written proposal or contract.
- A request for the full payment far in advance.
- Unclear who obtains permits and approvals.
- No examples of similar events or references you can contact.
- Pressure to book immediately to hold a date.
How do you find a planner in the directory?
Browse event management companies and wedding planners in the UAE and request the same itemised proposal from two or three of them.
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Frequently asked questions
How far ahead should I book an event planner?
Popular dates, especially in the cooler months, can be booked many months ahead, so start early.
Who applies for event permits?
It depends on the event and venue. Ask the planner and the venue in writing who is responsible.
Should I pay a deposit?
A deposit is normal, but get a receipt and make sure the contract says what it covers and when it is refundable.
Can I change the guest numbers later?
Usually within limits. Ask about the deadline and how the price changes.
Sources
This guide is general information. Permit rules differ by emirate and event type, so confirm requirements with the venue and the relevant authority.
Related businesses: Event Management & Wedding Planners in the UAE
Alienz Events Management
Office 303, Bedaia Building, Al Barsha 1, Dubai, UAE
MICE MEDIA Events
6th Floor, Meydan Grandstand, Nad Al Shiba, Dubai, UAE
TEC Event Management
Office 1112, Preatoni Tower, Cluster L, JLT, Dubai, UAE
Empire Era Events Management
Office C04, Floor 25, I Rise Tower, Barsha Heights, Dubai, UAE
Great Wall Events
Warehouse No. 02, Building No. 22, FAB Properties, Dubai Investment Park 1, Dubai, UAE
World Events Management
Office 1324-25, Aspin Commercial Tower, 106 Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, UAE
