Please read in conjunction with - Profit from Asia in 2025: A guide for Travel Agents

Special Considerations for UAE-Based Travel Agents: Selling Asia to International and Local Clients

Asia’s resurgence is driving one of the fastest-growing outbound markets from the Gulf. Emirates and Etihad now connect the UAE to more than 60 Asian cities, with expanded frequencies to Bangkok, Osaka, and Seoul through 2026. For UAE-based travel agencies, that connectivity translates into powerful sales potential, if managed with solid financial controls.

Market Overview
Outbound travel to Asia from the UAE grew 19 % in the first half of 2025, led by expatriate families seeking cultural or wellness breaks and Emirati travelers combining luxury retail with beach escapes. Average spend sits near AED 11 000 per traveler, while agent commissions range between 12 % and 22 % for bespoke itineraries that merge Tokyo, Bali, and Bangkok into one trip.

Financial Realities for UAE Agents

• Currency & Settlement: Bill clients in AED but settle supplier invoices in USD or local currency through platforms like Wio or Wise to limit 2–3 % conversion loss.

• Corporate-tax impact: Asia-related income counts toward the UAE’s 9 % corporate-tax threshold; maintain clear inter-company invoicing for multi-market agencies.

• VAT obligations: Outbound travel remains zero-rated under FTA rules, but input VAT on marketing and travel fairs can often be reclaimed — an overlooked benefit.

• Supplier discipline: Negotiate clear net rates and payment terms with DMCs in Thailand, Japan, and Vietnam; insist on written refund clauses and transparent commission structures.

• Risk & Compliance: Use AML-checked payment channels and retain invoices for at least five years to meet Federal Tax Authority documentation standards.

Strategic Positioning
UAE agents can outperform overseas competitors by pairing financial fluency with local insight. Focus on quality itineraries for high-spend travelers, integrate sustainability-branded suppliers, and promote Asia’s shoulder seasons to stabilize cash flow. With disciplined accounting and structured supplier terms, agencies can convert 2025’s travel surge into sustainable profit.

👉 Explore the full Antravia Destination Guide: Profit from Selling Asia in 2025 at Antravia.com for expanded insights, commission strategies, and hedging models.

This article by Antravia is general information, not advice. Regulations evolve quickly (especially CT, QFZP, and excise). Verify key positions against the primary sources below or with a locally licensed advisor.