Booking a tour
Are the guides on Gulf Tourism licensed?
Yes. Before a guide can publish tours, our team verifies their Emirates ID and a valid tour guide licence issued by the relevant UAE tourism authority. Verified guides show a green check mark on their profile.
How do I book a guide?
Open a guide’s profile or a tour page, choose a date, a start time and the number of guests, then check out. You need a free account so you can manage your bookings.
What is the difference between instant booking and request to book?
Instant-booking tours are confirmed as soon as you pay. With request to book, the guide confirms within 24 hours. If they decline or do not respond, you receive a full refund automatically.
Can I book a private tour just for my family or group?
Yes. Tours priced “per private group” are exclusive to your party up to the maximum group size shown. Shared tours are priced per person.
Which languages do guides speak?
Most guides speak English and many also speak Arabic. You will also find guides who speak Urdu, Hindi, Russian, Chinese, French, German, Spanish and other languages. Use the “Speaks” filter when searching.
Do prices include entry tickets and transport?
Each tour lists exactly what is included. Unless stated, entry tickets to paid attractions, transport and meals are not included. Ask your guide if you are unsure.
Payments & cancellations
Which currency do you charge in?
All prices are in UAE dirhams (AED). Your card provider may show an approximate amount in your home currency.
Is my payment secure?
Yes. Payments are processed by a PCI-compliant payment provider; we never see or store your full card details. Your guide is paid only after the tour has taken place.
What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 48 hours before the tour starts from My Account → My bookings. Cancellations made later are not refundable, except where the guide cancels or the tour cannot go ahead.
What happens if my guide cancels?
You receive a full refund to your original payment method, and our team will try to help you find another guide.
In the UAE
When is the best time to visit the UAE?
November to March is the most comfortable time for outdoor tours, with warm days and cooler evenings. In summer (June to September) many guides offer early-morning, evening and indoor experiences.
Is there a dress code for mosques and heritage sites?
At mosques, shoulders and knees should be covered and women are asked to cover their hair; many mosques lend suitable clothing. Modest dress is also appreciated in heritage areas and in Sharjah. Your guide will advise you before the tour.
Can guides pick me up from my hotel?
Some guides offer pickup or work as private driver-guides. Check the tour details or message the guide’s listed number after booking.
Becoming a guide
Who can become a guide on Gulf Tourism?
Anyone who holds a valid tour guide licence from a UAE tourism authority and a valid Emirates ID can apply. Sign up on the Become a guide page.
How much does it cost to join?
Joining is free. Gulf Tourism charges a commission on each completed booking, shown in your dashboard before you publish a tour.
How and when do guides get paid?
Earnings from a completed tour are added to your balance and become available after a short holding period. You can then request a payout by bank transfer to your UAE IBAN.