The Uganda Tourism Board (UTB), effective 18th November 2024, it will commence the closure of all unlicensed accommodation facilities across the country in partnership with Uganda Police.
This move follows the requirements set forth in the Uganda Tourism Act of 2008, which mandates that all accommodation facilities in Uganda must possess a valid tourism operating license to operate legally.
Affected Accommodation Categories
The affected facilities include a wide range of establishments within the tourism and hospitality sector. These are: Hotels, Lodges, Guesthouses, Motels, Inns, Serviced Apartments, Cottages, Villas, Hostels, Tented Camps, and Farm Houses. Any facility operating without a valid license from UTB will be subject to closure.
How to Obtain a Tourism Operating License
To avoid closure, accommodation facility owners and managers are urged to promptly register their businesses with UTB and apply for a tourism operating license. Registration is open online through the Quality Assurance System at www.qasystem.utb.go.ug/signup, with all payments processed via the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) at www.ura.go.ug.
Compliance Deadline
The deadline for compliance is 18th November 2024, after which enforcement actions will be taken. Facility owners are advised to complete the licensing process in advance to avoid disruptions to their operations.
For further information or assistance, please contact UTB at the following numbers:
Tel: 0752831351
Tel: 0704806982
Tel: 0702947252
The Uganda Tourism Board remains committed to ensuring quality standards in Uganda’s tourism sector and creating an enabling environment for all stakeholders.
