Question 1

When should I renew my Dubai trade license?

Accepted Answer

You should start the renewal process at least 30 days before your trade license expiry date. This allows time for document preparation, approvals, and payment. Late renewal incurs government fines that increase daily.

Question 2

What is the penalty for late license renewal in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

Late renewal penalties vary by jurisdiction: mainland DED charges AED 200-1,000 per month of delay, while free zone penalties vary by authority. Operating with an expired license can also result in visa freezes and inability to conduct banking transactions.

Question 3

What documents are needed for company renewal?

Accepted Answer

Standard renewal documents include: current trade license copy, Ejari (office lease) certificate, shareholder passport copies, previous year's audit report (if required), and any amended documents. AxisOne DC handles all document preparation.

Question 4

Can I change my company activities during renewal?

Accepted Answer

Yes, license renewal is an ideal time to add, remove, or amend business activities. Activity amendments require additional approval from DED or your free zone authority and may incur extra fees.

Question 5

How do I change shareholders in my Dubai company?

Accepted Answer

Shareholder changes require: board resolution, amended MOA, DED/free zone approval, updated share certificates, and notification to all relevant authorities. The process typically takes 5-10 business days. AxisOne DC manages the complete process.

Question 6

Can I change my company name in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

Yes, company name changes are possible through DED (mainland) or your free zone authority. Requirements include: new name reservation, amended MOA, updated trade license, and notification to banks and government departments.

Question 7

What is an Ejari and why is it needed for renewal?

Accepted Answer

Ejari is Dubai's official tenancy contract registration system. A valid Ejari certificate is mandatory for mainland trade license renewal, proving your company has a legitimate office address. Free zone companies use their zone's own lease system.

Question 8

How much does trade license renewal cost?

Accepted Answer

Renewal costs are typically 70-80% of the initial setup cost. Mainland renewals range from AED 10,000-20,000, and free zone renewals from AED 5,000-15,000, depending on the license type and business activities.

Question 9

Can I downgrade my company during renewal?

Accepted Answer

Yes, during renewal you can reduce business activities, decrease share capital, or change office requirements. Downgrading may reduce your annual renewal cost but could affect visa quotas and permitted activities.

Question 10

What is an establishment card and does it need renewal?

Accepted Answer

An establishment card (labor card) is issued by MOHRE and links your company to the immigration system for visa processing. It must be renewed along with your trade license. Without a valid establishment card, you cannot process employee visas.

Company Renewal & Amendments