The industry feedback about the initiative has been highly encouraging and appreciative. The first of its kind of facility in the emirate is expected to reduce by 90 % the need for personal presence for obtaining the permits by the hotels and resorts, sports and leisure clubs and event management organizations.
Mr. Mohammed Khalifa, DTCM Deputy Manager, Entertainment Activities and Inspection, said: 'The electronic issuance of Entertainment Activity Permits is in line with the department's commitment towards the Dubai eGovernment in order to make the whole business of dealing with us less cumbersome, more effective and transparent.'
The actual use of the software related to the electronic issuance of Entertainment Activity Permits started in the January-end 2005 and the services provided include obtaining of approvals of the relevant government authorities, issuing, renewing, amending and canceling of permits electronically and follow-up about the status of transactions.
The user-friendly facility allows settling the fees electronically as well.
The department issued 6,767 Entertainment Activity Permits in 2004 and expects a 20 % increase in the number of permits during this year.
The department is the principal authority for planning, supervision, and development of tourism in Dubai. It currently oversees the licensing of hotels, hotel apartments, tour operators, and tour guides. There are 371 hotel and hotel apartments in Dubai.
Any public entertainment activity like concerts and live bands, either in hotel establishment premises or any other venues in the emirate need to have permits issued by the department.
The emergence of Dubai as a year-round business and leisure destination has resulted in significant increases in entertainment activities like musical concerts, stage shows and appearances by celebrities from the world of films and entertainment.
Autor: Anne-Birte Stensgaard
Quelle: AME Info, 14.03.2005
