Abu Dhabi Authorities Waive 10% Tourism Fees to Encourage Tourism
Abu Dhabi vows overhaul the region’s image and boost tourism
Authorities in Abu Dhabi recently announced a measure to increase tourism activities by exempting event organisers from paying the 10% tourism fees on ticket sales. This exemption will be in effect until December 3, 2023. Abu Dhabi is known for hosting high-profile concerts that have garnered global attention.
The Department of Culture and Tourism in Abu Dhabi has decided to extend the fee waiver for issuing, distributing, and marketing event tickets in the Emirates. This decision aims to promote the industry's growth and create a positive and refined regional image. The Director General of Tourism Abu Dhabi stated that the emirate's year-round events attract visitors worldwide.
In his statement, he mentioned that the tourism fee waiver was a part of the strategy to enhance growth and support event partners and organisers, who play a crucial role in the emirate's tourism and entertainment ecosystem. However, he added, event organisers must obtain permits through the Abu Dhabi events licensing system and comply with specific regulations.
Event organisers in Abu Dhabi are required to disclose the revenues generated from their events. They are also expected to provide supporting financial statements and collaborate with revenue auditors or individuals appointed by DCT to ensure the accuracy of their declarations.
The UAE capital is expanding efforts to diversify its non-oil economy and attract investments across different sectors such as tourism, aviation and technology. The emirate aims to increase tourism's GDP contribution to 12% by 2030, up from 5% in 2020, by promoting itself as a cultural and travel destination.
In November, the capital of the UAE opened a new airport terminal to boost international visitor arrivals and trade flow. A tourism tax waiver has also been introduced as part of several recent measures to enhance the tourism and events industry in Abu Dhabi.