Booking a holiday home in Dubai: the 2026 checklist

Planning & bookingBy Penthouse Apartments Dubai teamPublished 1 November 2026Updated 1 November 20262 min read

Booking a penthouse or holiday home in Dubai: a checklist

1. Is it licensed?

Every short-term rental in Dubai needs a holiday home permit from Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism (DET, formerly DTCM), and the permit number should be on the listing. Licensed homes are inspected and insured, and you have someone to complain to if something goes wrong.

2. Guest registration

The operator must register every guest with the DET using a passport or Emirates ID, usually before you arrive or within hours of check-in. Most hosts ask for passport copies by message a day or two before. Have them ready, children's included.

3. Fees to expect

Tourism Dirham: a government fee per occupied bedroom per night, AED 10 for a standard holiday home and AED 15 for a deluxe one, charged on up to 30 nights. Dubai brought in temporary relief measures for the tourism sector in 2026, so check your booking summary for what applies to you.
Cleaning fee: usually once per stay.
Security deposit: often AED 1,000–5,000 for a large penthouse, held on a card and returned after check-out.
VAT: 5%, usually included in the price.

4. The apartment itself

The bed layout: which rooms have doubles, twins and en-suites.
The real view. Look for photos taken from the balcony and read reviews that mention it.
The floor. "Penthouse" should mean the top floor or a roof terrace, so ask if you're not sure.
Pool and gym rules. Some building facilities are shared and close at certain hours.
Parking, if you're hiring a car.

5. House rules

Most buildings don't allow parties, events, extra overnight guests or loud music, and fines can be steep. If you're celebrating, ask the host first. Some allow small dinners, and the building may need notice.

6. Check-in and check-out

Self check-in with a smart lock or key box is common. Ask how it works if you're arriving late at night. Late check-out often depends on the next booking, so ask early.