The Dubai College of Tourism, under the Department of Economy and Tourism in Dubai, is celebrating a major milestone: the fifth anniversary of its Tour Guide Program. Launched as a fully virtual initiative, the program has successfully trained and licensed more than 2,400 tour guides from over 50 different nationalities, all working toward enriching the visitor experience across the emirate.
The program is open to both Emirati citizens and residents of the UAE who are passionate about the tourism industry. It offers participants high-standard training to obtain the official tour guide license issued by the Department of Economy and Tourism — the only recognized credential in Dubai that allows holders to work legally with registered tour operators.
This initiative comes at a time when Dubai continues to experience record-breaking growth in international tourism. From January to November 2025 alone, the city welcomed over 17.55 million international visitors — a 5% increase compared to the same period in 2024.
The program aims to meet the rising demand for skilled tour guides by offering a flexible, online learning platform accessible to individuals aged 18 and above. Training is currently offered in both English and Mandarin, allowing broader access for a diverse range of participants.
Designed to be completed remotely, the program consists of approximately 21 hours of virtual training. Participants have up to 90 days to complete the program once their documentation is verified. The course includes five stages of assessment, such as a virtual interview and a practical test — all conducted online. Successful candidates are awarded an official license to begin their careers as professional tour guides in Dubai.
Beyond training, the program supports the development of local talent by offering graduates the opportunity to work part-time or full-time, or even start their own tourism-related businesses. This contributes not only to the professional growth of the guides but also to enhancing the quality of tourism services provided to Dubai’s visitors.
Speaking on the occasion, Maryam Sultan Al Maaini, Vice President of Emiratisation and Tour Guide Development at Dubai College of Tourism, stated:
“As we mark the fifth anniversary of the Tour Guide Program, we are proud of its impact in licensing thousands of guides who play a key role in showcasing Dubai’s rich cultural and touristic offerings to visitors from around the world.”
The success of this initiative reflects Dubai’s forward-thinking approach in empowering tourism professionals and sustaining the city’s global reputation as a leading travel destination.
