Short answer: to choose a hotel or serviced apartment in the UAE, check that it is officially licensed or classified, compare the total price including 5% VAT, service charges and any Tourism Dirham fee in Dubai, read the cancellation terms, and confirm location and transport before you book.
Key takeaways
- Book hotels and holiday homes that are licensed by the tourism authority of the emirate.
- Compare the total price: room rate, 5% VAT, service or municipality charges, and in Dubai the Tourism Dirham fee, which is charged per room per night.
- Read the cancellation and refund terms, and whether a deposit is taken at booking.
- Check the exact location, distance to transport and recent guest reviews.
Which type of stay suits you?
| Type | Best for | Check |
|---|---|---|
| Business or boutique hotel | Short business trips and city stays | Location, meeting facilities, breakfast |
| Luxury or resort hotel | Holidays and special occasions | Resort or facility fees, what is included |
| Budget hotel or serviced apartment | Longer stays and families | Kitchen, cleaning schedule, minimum stay |
How do you check that a hotel or holiday home is licensed?
Hotels, hotel apartments and holiday homes are regulated by the tourism authority of each emirate. In Dubai, holiday homes must be licensed by the Department of Economy and Tourism, and licensed properties display a permit number. Ask for the licence number if you are booking directly, and book through platforms that show it.
What is the real price?
- The advertised rate may exclude 5% VAT and service charges.
- Dubai charges a Tourism Dirham fee per room per night, which may be paid at the hotel.
- Resort or facility fees, parking and breakfast can be extra.
- Check the currency and whether the price is per room or per person.
What should you check before you book?
- Free cancellation deadline and what a no-show costs.
- Check-in and check-out times and early arrival options.
- Distance to metro, beach, business area or airport.
- Recent guest reviews and photos, not only the hotel’s own images.
- Family or accessibility needs, such as connecting rooms or step-free access.
What are the red flags?
- A price far below similar hotels in the same area.
- Booking only by direct bank transfer to a personal account.
- No licence or permit number for a holiday home.
- Refusing to confirm cancellation terms in writing.
How do you find a hotel in the directory?
Browse hotels and hospitality businesses in the UAE, including business and boutique hotels, budget and serviced apartments and luxury and resort hotels.
Related guides: How to Choose a Travel Agency or Tour Operator in the UAE · How to Choose a Restaurant in the UAE: Hygiene, Halal and Allergens
Frequently asked questions
What is the Tourism Dirham fee?
In Dubai, hotels and holiday homes charge a Tourism Dirham fee per room per night. Check whether it is included in your booking price.
Do hotel prices include VAT?
Not always. Check whether the advertised rate includes the 5% VAT and service charges.
How do I know a holiday home is legal?
Licensed holiday homes in Dubai carry a permit number issued by the tourism authority. Ask for it before you pay.
Is free cancellation common?
Many rates allow it up to a deadline, but cheaper non-refundable rates do not. Always read the terms.
Sources
This guide is general information. Fees and licensing rules change, so confirm current details with the hotel or the tourism authority.
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