UAE: Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority [RAKTDA] is set to introduce measures that will simplify the holiday homes system in the emirate, whereby owners and operators access an electronic registration portal to register their residential units on a short-term rental basis.
As a result, it will be easier for owners and operators to acquire short-term rental permits and convert their properties for the desired use as holiday homes.
It comes about as the emirate steps up its efforts to strengthen its tourism and hospitality offerings, including adding to and diversifying from its existing core accommodation portfolio of four- and five-star hotels, as well as tourist resorts, to boost investor interest.
Raki Phillips, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, said: “We’re seeing a growing number of visitors booking longer stays in the emirate to completely switch off and enjoy as much of the unique experiences the emirate has to offer. We want to tap into this trend and have therefore updated our holiday homes rental system to make it even easier for homeowners and operators to register, organise permits for and convert their units.
“This is in line with our vision for a diversified tourism and hospitality sector, adding even more accommodation options to our portfolio, and enhancing liveability to benefit our communities and visitors who want to experience the high quality of life here and discover more of our stunning Emirate,” added Phillips.
Last August, a new regulatory framework was launched for residents in Sharjah who want to rent out their homes or properties as holiday homes to tourists, as part of the emirate’s Holiday Homes Project.
Under the terms and standards approved by the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority [SCTDA], the first year-long phase of the project was said to involve the registration and licensing of 150 holiday homes in the emirate, meaning that residential units can be rented out on a rotational basis.
Field visits, inspection campaigns and in-person or digital follow ups are being carried out on the holiday homes themselves, as well as the operators and owners.
Meanwhile, the Government of Sharjah is offering official guidance on operating requirements, classification criteria, potential violations and other mechanisms for the Project, in line with international holiday home best practice.
