How to Become a Tour Guide in Dubai?
Becoming a tour guide in Dubai ratio is rapidly increasing every year. Have you ever thought why? Dubai has an extensive tourism industry because of its history, culture, and welcome. No wonder that is why millions of people visit Dubai annually.
And to be honest, tourists love to have a guide who can lead them through various destinations while also informing them about the places. Then again, Dubai has a rich history, culture, and landmarks that open the doors for various types of tour guides availability.
And that was just only the beginning. You can become whatever type of guide you want in Dubai. However, you must only meet the criteria for becoming a Dubai tour guide. Imagine what it would be like to let people love Dubai like you. Surely, there is no other way than to become a tour guide and show the tourist what is special about Dubai. I’ll walk you through all the details in this guide named How to Become a Tour Guide in Dubai,
Let’s jump in now!
How to Become a Tour Guide in Dubai?
You first must meet the eligibility requirements to become a tour guide in Dubai. Moreover, you must complete the tour guide training named Dubai Way program. Remember that only if you clear the Dubai Way program, you become a tour guide in Dubai within 2 or a few days.
Dubai Tour Guide Eligibility Requirements
Applicants need to be eligible to become a licensed tour guides in Dubai. Have you wondered why? The reason is tour guide is responsible for giving the right information and providing the best tour to the tourists.
However, it can only be done if you are eligible enough to fulfill this responsibility.
Remember that there are also some basic eligibility requirements:
You must be 18+ years old.
You must have an Emirates ID.
You must be proficient in English.
You must complete the Dubai Way program.
On the other hand, having a grip on other languages can be a plus. Moreover, the people who are applying for adventure or cultural guides might need expertise in specific areas. That includes desert guiding and the history of the UAE.
Key Steps to Become a Licensed Tour Guide in Dubai
There are some key steps to follow for becoming a licensed tour guide in Dubai. Let’s be honest here. These steps will lead you toward your tour guide license. Nevertheless, you must give your complete attention and eagerness to successfully complete this program.
Here’s the step-by-step process for becoming a licensed Dubai tour guide:
You must be 18+ years old
Make sure that you meet all the eligible requirements
Submit all the required documents
Enroll in a Dubai Way program
Complete the Dubai Way program with all the required interviews and assessments.
Pass the practical assessment.
You’ll receive your e-visa within 2 working days after the completion of the Dubai Way program.
Now for the other part of the story. You must have to clear the practical assessment of the Dubai Way program to get your Dubai tour guide license. In case you might be asking yourself. The practical assessment is about giving you a random route and you have to conduct a tour of that route as a tour guide.
Types of Tour Guides in Dubai
Dubai has a diverse tourism industry that demands various types of tour guides. To be honest, that’s the reason the profession of tour guiding has the most demand in UAE. Moreover, you can choose whatever type suits you and your interests.
Cultural tour guides
Desert safari tour guides
Adventure tour guides
Historical tour guides
City tour guides
Luxury tour guides
Private tour guides
In my experience, private tour guides have the most demand in Dubai. The secret? Many people like the private tour guide to get a personal experience. But don’t be disheartened, every tour guide has its own uniqueness so be one of your kind and lead the tour guide profession.
Dubai Tour Guide Training Programs
When you take the first step to becoming a tour guide in Dubai then you have to be ready to take a Dubai Way program for training. Have you wondered why? Because this program will benefit you a lot in your Dubai tour guide profession.
Nevertheless, the Dubai Way program covers all the necessities.
The course covers:
Study tourism and Dubai’s stories
Delivering local expertise
Build your knowledge of Dubai
Exceptional visitor experiences
But here’s the kicker. You must be successful in the Dubai Way program to get your Dubai tour guide license. But wait, there is more. You’ll have to give interviews and most importantly the practical assessment after the course will decide whether you are eligible or not.
Skills Needed as a Tour Guide
Like every other profession, you also need some skills to make your mark as a tour guide in Dubai. Since you’ll be working in Dubai where people come from various countries, you must be knowledgeable about the making conversation.
And why I am saying this? Because no tourist likes the tour guide who bores them with their continuous knowledge.
The skills that are needed are;
Communication skill
Cultural awareness
Time management
Group management
Customer service skill
Problem-solving abilities
Interpersonal communication skill
First-aid training
Do you want to know a secret? Tourists like tour guides who can engage with interpersonal communication skills. The reason is that way the tourists can themselves ask and share freely. In other words, this way the tour becomes comfortable and even better than your thoughts.
Remember that no tourist is here to get the information like Google, they are here to have fun and have hands-on experience.
Do I need a license to work as a tour guide in Dubai?
Yes, you need a license to work as a tour guide in Dubai. Moreover, you must be 18 years old and proficient in English. On the other hand, you must complete your Tour Guide training program.
How long does it take to become a licensed tour guide?
It takes at least a few weeks or a month to become a licensed Dubai tour guide. In case you might be asking yourself. The duration depends on your training course program. However, you get your license within 2 to 3 working days after completing your training.
Can I work as a freelance tour guide in Dubai?
Yes, you can work as a freelance tour guide in Dubai. However, you must have a valid tour guide license to work legally in Dubai.
Are there any opportunities for career growth as a tour guide in Dubai?
Yes, there are various opportunities. Likewise, you can work in a higher role like a tour operator or manager. Nevertheless, you have to make your networking, gain expertise, and build a reputation in the tour guide industry.