Should I run my holiday home myself or use an operator?

Self-managing keeps the 15-25% fee but means handling DET compliance, guest messaging, 24/7 issues, cleaning turnovers, pricing and Tourism Dirham filing yourself, practical mainly if you are in Dubai and hands-on. A licensed operator handles all of it and usually holds occupancy and reviews higher, which can offset the fee. Overseas or multi-unit owners almost always use an operator.