Quick answer
How do you renew a trade license in Dubai?
Renew your office tenancy (Ejari for mainland companies) and any activity approvals, then submit the renewal to DET or your free zone authority and pay the annual fees. Start about a month before expiry: a late renewal can lead to fines and block visa, labour and banking transactions until the license is valid again.
What a renewal involves
- Renewing your Ejari tenancy contract (mainland)
- Any approvals required for your activities
- License renewal with DET or your free zone authority
- Renewing the establishment card and other linked registrations
License amendments
Businesses change over time. We also handle amendments such as adding or removing activities, changing the trade name, shareholders, manager or address, converting the legal form, and company liquidation when you decide to close.
What our Trade License Renewal package includes
- Renewal reminders
- Ejari renewal
- DET and free zone license renewal
- Establishment card renewal
- Activity, shareholder and name amendments
- Company liquidation and de-registration
Trade License Renewal process: step by step
- 01
Reminder
We contact you before your license expiry date.
- 02
Prerequisites
We renew Ejari and any approvals needed first.
- 03
Renewal
We submit the renewal and arrange payment.
- 04
Updated documents
You receive your renewed license and updated records.
Trade License Renewal: frequently asked questions
When should I renew my trade license?
We recommend starting about a month before the expiry date, so there is time to renew your tenancy contract and any approvals first.
What happens if my trade license expires?
Late renewal fines can apply, and an expired license can block visa, labour and banking transactions. If your license has already expired, contact us and we will help you regularise it.
Can I add a new activity to my license?
Yes, as long as the activity is compatible with your license type and jurisdiction. Some activities need extra approvals.
Can trade licenses be renewed online?
Many renewals can be completed online through DET's Invest in Dubai platform or free zone portals. We handle the submission for you.
Official sources
Rules, fees and timelines are set by UAE authorities and change from time to time. For the official position, see:
