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The Dubai government is waiving the 10% fee levied on ticket sales at paid events across the emirate, as part of a move to support organisers and further boost the emirate’s competitiveness, according to a new statement on Friday.
The government normally collects a fee for each ticket sold at paid events, equivalent to 10% of the actual or estimated value of the entry price, or up to AED10 ($2.72) per guest.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, has just issued Decree No. (5) of 2023 amending some provisions pertaining to the e-licensing and e-ticking system for events in Dubai.
Under the new decree, Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) waives the collection of the 10% ticketing fee. However, the government will continue to levy the fees for the annual subscription to its e-permit and e-ticketing system.
The new decree is aimed at raising Dubai’s economic competitiveness, creating a pro-growth business environment and further raising standards across sectors.
“The regulatory amendments, which reaffirm the importance of this sector, provide a strong impetus to the growth of entertainment activities, events and festivals and encourage event companies to organise distinctive events that can attract more visitors to Dubai,” said Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment.
Dubai believes that by waiving the 10% fee, organisers will be more profitable, and they will be encouraged to initiate activities that will boost visitor traffic to Dubai.
“By raising the profitability of organisers of events, the new decree provides a strong boost to the sector, which in turn will help attract more people to attend events and festivals in the city,” the statement said.
Dubai is one of the leading destinations for international events and exhibitions in the region. Last year, the emirate won at least 232 bids to host global business events.
(Reporting by Cleofe Maceda; editing by Brinda Darasha)
