Photography and Licensing — A Critical Step Before Welcoming the First Guest

In this article from the Host Library, Mona Al-Harbi — a host with over two years of experience — continues sharing her journey in preparing her first unit. After completing the furnishing and policy phase, she reached a pivotal stage: photography and obtaining official permits.

The Importance of Professional Photography

After finishing the villa’s preparation, furnishing, and policies, I entered a new and very important phase: photography.

Many people underestimate this step, but it is truly one of the most critical. Photography is the first impression a guest sees before deciding whether to book.

The first thing I did was ensure that every corner of the villa was ready for the camera — lighting, bedding, furniture arrangement, and even small details like kitchen tools and subtle decorative touches

Photography must be realistic.

The images are what build trust between you and your guests.

I avoided heavy filters or exaggerated lighting. My goal was simple: when guests arrive, the space should match the photos 100%.

At the beginning, I used my phone for photography, especially since I had completed a photography course. The results were good and suitable for listing.

However, my advice to any new host is this:

Professional photography is one of the strongest factors in attracting bookings.

A high-quality image increases guest confidence and encourages them to book without hesitation.

Obtaining the Official Tourism License

After completing the photography, I moved on to the official process: obtaining a Private Tourist Hospitality Facility License from the Ministry of Tourism.

When I applied in 2024, the process was fully digital. Photos were uploaded through the Ministry’s website, and approval was granted without a physical inspection.

At that time, the required documents included:

• Title deed or lease agreement

• Clear photos of all villa facilities

• Photos of safety equipment (fire extinguisher, smoke detector)

• A photo of a first aid kit

• Payment of the annual licensing fee (SAR 1,100)

It’s important for new hosts to know that regulations changed in 2025. An inspector now visits the property after submission to verify that the uploaded photos match the actual unit and to ensure safety requirements are met before approval is granted.

Listing the Property on Booking Platforms

After receiving approval, I began listing the unit on booking platforms.

Within Saudi Arabia, there are licensed local platforms such as Jathr In, Golden Host, Mabait, and Aqar.

There are also international platforms like Booking.com and Airbnb, though they are not officially licensed within the Kingdom.

Each platform has its own process, but generally, you need to upload:

• High-quality photos of the unit

• An accurate and honest property description

• The correct location

• A contact phone number

This marked the beginning of my first official experience as a registered host on booking platforms.

At this stage, the unit is fully prepared to welcome its first guest.

The First Three Stages of the Host Journey

With this, we have completed the first three stages of the “Host Journey”:

• The birth of the idea and project launch

• Property selection, furnishing, and setting policies

• Photography, licensing, and platform registration

In the next article, I will share my experience welcoming my first guest, managing bookings, and communicating with guests from check-in to checkout.