1. Confirm DTCM Licensing and Legal Compliance
Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) regulates all holiday home operations.
Before considering a company, ensure they’re:
- Registered as a licensed holiday home operator
- Able to register your unit legally under your name or theirs
- Transparent about tourism fees, deposits, and legal reporting
Tip: Ask for their DTCM operator ID or sample permit from another managed unit.
2. Ask About Guest Communication & Reviews
Your Airbnb rating lives and dies by the guest experience. Look for managers who:
- Offer 24/7 multilingual guest support
- Handle check-in/check-out logistics (keyless is a bonus)
- Have a system for managing guest reviews and boosting ratings
Tip: Higher-rated listings typically command 15–25% more in nightly rates.
3. Understand the Fee Structure (and What’s Included)
Airbnb property management companies in Dubai typically charge 15%–25% of booking revenue. But not all fees are created equal.
Ask:
- Are cleaning fees passed to the guest or owner?
- Are consumables (toiletries, water, coffee) included?
- Are photography, listings, and furnishing billed separately?
Tip: Some companies offer “all-inclusive” services; others itemize everything.
4. Cleaning & Maintenance Standards
Well-reviewed properties stay pristine. Ask how the company:
- Handles turnover cleaning and linen changes
- Manages urgent repairs (A/C, plumbing, etc.)
- Conducts regular inspections to catch damage or wear early
Tip: Check if they send photo reports between guest stays.
5. Revenue Management & Pricing Strategy
A strong Airbnb property management company in Dubai doesn’t just list - they optimize. Look for:
- Dynamic pricing tools based on demand, events, and season
- A clear approach to occupancy vs. rate balance
- Past performance data: what’s the average ROI increase vs. self-hosting?
Tip: The best managers will show you how they outperform the market.
6. Transparency, Reporting & Owner Access
You should always know how your property is doing. Ask if the company offers:
- Monthly financial statements and breakdowns
- Real-time dashboards or owner apps
- Flexibility to block off dates for personal use
Tip: Trustworthy companies will be upfront and proactive with your data.
7. Portfolio Fit: Do They Specialize in Your Area & Property Type?
Dubai neighborhoods vary widely - Downtown isn’t the same as JVC or Palm Jumeirah.
It helps to choose a manager who:
- Has experience with your location and unit size
- Knows the local guest profile and pricing dynamics
- Can share relevant case studies
Tip: Ask “Can you show me results from a similar property to mine?”
8. What Do Their Clients & Guests Say?
Reputation matters. Look beyond their website.
- Check Google Reviews, Airbnb listings, and Trustpilot
- Look for trends: are they praised for service, response times, guest satisfaction?
- Consider reaching out to a current client if possible
Tip: A company that delivers consistent 5-star experiences has proof to back it up.
Don’t Just Choose the Cheapest - Choose the Smartest
Choosing a property manager isn’t just a cost - it’s an investment in better occupancy, higher ROI, and fewer headaches.
Look for a partner who’s proactive, transparent, and aligned with your goals.
