Screening Airbnb guests in Dubai
Most guests are easy. A few cause most of the trouble. Here is how hosts spot them early and what to do when something goes wrong.
Read the request
Check the guest's profile, past reviews and the reason for the trip. A brand new profile is not a red flag on its own, but a vague answer to a simple question can be.
Set clear house rules
No parties, quiet hours, the most guests allowed and no smoking indoors. Put them in the listing so guests agree before they book.
Register every guest
Licensed holiday homes register guests with the Department of Economy and Tourism from their ID. Ask for ID for everyone staying, not only the person who booked.
Watch for party signs
Local bookings for one night on a weekend, more guests than beds, or questions about bringing friends over. Ask before you accept.
Know the building
Towers often have their own rules on visitors, pool use and noise. A complaint from the building can cost you more than one bad booking.
Plan for damage
Check the home after every stay with photos, report damage to the booking site quickly, and know what your deposit or host cover asks for.
Next: check-in, better reviews and co-host or full management.
Our pick
fäm Living screens and registers every guest
fäm Living lists and runs Dubai apartments and villas on Airbnb, Booking.com and direct, as licensed holiday homes. Its own team handles check-in, cleaning and maintenance, and owners see every booking in the owner portal. Part of the fäm Properties group.
Talk to fäm Living about your home- Holiday home permit handled
- Listing, photos and pricing
- Guest screening and in-person check-in
- Cleaning, linen and maintenance
Questions
Guest screening: host questions
How do I avoid parties at my Airbnb in Dubai?
Clear house rules in the listing, guest registration for everyone staying, care with one-night local weekend bookings, and someone who can reach the home quickly if neighbours complain.
Can I ask Airbnb guests in Dubai for ID?
Yes. Licensed holiday homes must register guests with the Department of Economy and Tourism, so ID is collected before arrival.
What do I do if a guest damages my Airbnb?
Take photos straight after check-out, report it to the booking site within its deadline and keep receipts for repairs. A management company should do this for you.
What if the building complains about my guests?
Act the same day: speak to the guest, then the building. Repeated complaints can put your holiday home permit and your standing with the building at risk.