DET Approval for Tourism & Hospitality Advertising in Dubai
Regulatory Clearance for Tourism, Leisure, Events & Destination Promotions
Advertising related to tourism, hospitality, leisure, events, and destination promotion in Dubai is regulated by the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). Any business promoting tourism-driven services or visitor experiences must comply with DET advertising guidelines before launching campaigns.
DET approvals ensure advertising content accurately represents Dubai’s tourism offerings while maintaining transparency, consumer trust, and brand integrity.
At OAU (OutdoorAdvertisingUAE.com), we help brands plan and execute DET-compliant outdoor advertising campaigns across Dubai’s most prominent locations.
What Is DET Advertising Approval?
DET advertising approval is a mandatory clearance for promotional campaigns related to:
- Hotels, resorts, and serviced apartments
- Tourist attractions and theme parks
- Events, festivals, and exhibitions
- Travel, tours, and destination experiences
- Hospitality offers, packages, and promotions
Any public-facing advertisement promoting tourism or visitor-related services in Dubai must comply with DET requirements.
When Is DET Approval Required?
DET approval is required when advertising:
- Hospitality and tourism services operating in Dubai
- Hotel offers, staycation deals, and seasonal promotions
- Tourist attractions and entertainment venues
- Events targeting residents or international visitors
- Travel and destination marketing campaigns
This applies to outdoor advertising, digital media, print advertising, transit media, and event branding.
Advertising Formats Requiring DET Approval
DET approval may be required for:
- Billboards and large-format hoardings
- Digital outdoor and LED screens
- Taxi, metro, and transit advertising
- Mall media and outdoor signage
- Event branding and promotional installations
Tourism-related advertising with pricing, offers, or experiences must be approved prior to launch.
Key DET Advertising Compliance Guidelines
To receive DET approval, advertising content must:
- Accurately represent services and experiences
- Clearly disclose pricing, terms, and conditions
- Avoid misleading offers or exaggerated claims
- Use approved brand names and licensed entities
- Align with Dubai’s tourism and cultural standards
Non-compliant advertising may be rejected, delayed, or removed.
DET Approval Process (Overview)
The typical approval process includes:
- Submission of advertising creatives and promotional copy
- Review for accuracy, transparency, and compliance
- Feedback, modification request, or approval
- Final clearance prior to campaign execution
Approval timelines vary depending on campaign scope and content complexity.
Why DET Approval Matters for Outdoor Advertising
Dubai’s tourism advertising environment is highly visible and competitive. DET approval ensures:
- Legal and regulatory compliance
- Protection against campaign takedowns
- Increased credibility with tourists and residents
- Eligibility for premium outdoor advertising locations
Advertising without approval can result in financial loss and reputational risk.
How OAU Supports DET-Compliant Advertising
At OAU, we support tourism and hospitality brands by:
- Reviewing creatives for DET compliance readiness
- Coordinating with media owners on approval workflows
- Aligning outdoor formats with tourism regulations
- Executing campaigns only after DET clearance
Our experience in tourism-focused outdoor advertising ensures smoother approvals and faster campaign launches.
FAQ – DET Approval for Advertising in Dubai
What is DET approval for advertising?
DET approval is mandatory authorization for tourism, hospitality, and destination-related advertising in Dubai.
Which businesses require DET approval?
Hotels, resorts, attractions, event organizers, tour operators, and hospitality brands require DET approval.
Does outdoor advertising require DET approval?
Yes. Outdoor formats promoting tourism or hospitality services require DET clearance.
Are hotel offers and discounts regulated?
Yes. Pricing, packages, and promotional offers must be approved by DET.
Is approval required for event advertising?
Yes. Public events, festivals, and exhibitions require DET approval.
Does taxi and metro advertising require DET approval?
Yes, when the campaign promotes tourism or hospitality services.
Can tourism ads run without DET approval?
No. Unauthorized advertising may be removed or penalized.
Does DET review advertising content?
Yes. All content is reviewed for accuracy, transparency, and compliance.
Are digital ads regulated by DET?
Yes. Digital and outdoor tourism advertising is regulated.
How long does DET approval take?
Timelines vary depending on campaign content and complexity.