Please read in conjunction with - Selling Europe in 2025 | Travel Agent Profit Guide

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

For UAE-based travel agents, Europe represents one of the most profitable outbound markets in 2025. With Emirates serving 40+ European destinations and Etihad expanding rapidly, launching new routes to Prague and Warsaw in early 2026, plus increasing frequencies to London and Paris, access and connectivity are better than ever.

Dubai and Abu Dhabi alone contribute a growing share of outbound leisure travel to Europe, mainly driven by expatriate families seeking cultural escapes, UAE nationals pursuing Riviera yachting and Tuscan wine tours, and the burgeoning corporate travel links between Dubai, Frankfurt, and Amsterdam.

Why Europe Sales Matter for UAE Agents

UAE-based agencies have a unique position: they can source directly from European DMCs while marketing to both expatriate and GCC clients, often earning higher margins than international competitors. But multi-currency settlements, EU VAT complexities, and seasonal supplier dynamics make financial discipline essential.

Practical Tips for UAE Agents

• Supplier Relationships: Build direct connections with Europe-based DMCs such as Jules Verne (France/Spain) or Mediterranean Collection (Italy/Greece) to secure stronger commissions and reduce reliance on overseas intermediaries. There are other DMCs, so make sure you shop around.

• Currency Management: Quote in AED for local clients but settle in EUR when paying suppliers to simplify reconciliation. Using platforms like Wise or Revolut can reduce bank conversion costs by 2–3%.

• Client Segmentation: UAE residents often prefer curated, mid- to high-end packages so tailor options such as “Luxury Riviera & Paris Escape” or “Rome and Amalfi Discovery,” focusing on convenience and value rather than lowest price.

• VAT Awareness: UAE agents registered for VAT can reclaim business input tax on marketing and supplier expenses that support outbound sales, improving profitability compared to foreign agents.

• Sustainability Appeal: Promote eco-certified hotels and Green Deal-aligned tours, which resonate strongly with UAE’s focus on sustainable tourism and the ongoing Year of Sustainability initiatives.

Antravia’s Support for UAE Agents Through Antravia’s UAE insights platform, we support local travel agents with practical guidance on supplier relationships, VAT compliance, and regional opportunities. Our deep familiarity with the Dubai market helps agents increase profitability while staying aligned with local regulations.

👉 Ready to boost your Europe sales? Contact Antravia UAE for a free consultation.

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.