Trade License Renewal in Dubai

The trade license renewal process in Dubai is a crucial regulatory requirement that ensures businesses maintain their legal operational status. The process is overseen by the Department of Economic Development (DED) and requires careful attention to various requirements and timelines.

Validity and Timeline

• License validity: Minimum 1 year to maximum 3 years
• Renewal window: Within one month of expiration
• Processing time: Approximately 10 minutes for standard renewals

1. Lease Contract Certification

Lease contract certification entails registering and validating your business’s tenancy agreement with the Dubai Economic Department (DED) through the Ejari system. Start by submitting your lease contract via the Ejari online portal or an authorized typing center. The Ejari system, managed by the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA), confirms your business’s physical location, a mandatory requirement for renewal. For example, a retail shop in Deira must provide a certified Ejari to prove its operational base. Certification costs around AED 220, depending on the service provider. Complete this step first, as the Ejari certificate is a core document for the renewal process.

2. External Approvals (if required)

External approvals are required for trade license renewal in Dubai when your business activity falls under specialized sectors like healthcare, construction, or food services. Check with the DED to confirm if your license type needs clearance from authorities such as the Dubai Health Authority (DHA), Dubai Municipality, or the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). For instance, a restaurant needs Dubai Municipality approval to verify food safety compliance. Submit relevant documents like health permits or safety certificates to the respective authority. Approvals take 3 to 10 working days, depending on the sector. Skip this step if your business, such as a general trading firm, requires only DED oversight.

3. Documentation Submission

Submit documentation for trade license renewal in Dubai through the DED’s online portal or at a DED service center. Gather required documents, including the Ejari certificate, current trade license copy, passport copies of partners, and, if applicable, external approval certificates. Log into the DED portal, upload these files, and fill out the renewal application form. Alternatively, visit a service center like Al Twar Center for in-person submission. The process takes about 1 to 2 days if all documents are complete. Ensure accuracy, as errors delay approval.

4. Fee Payment

Fees involved in renewing a trade license in Dubai range from AED 1,000 to AED 15,000, depending on your business activity and license type. Pay the renewal fee online via the DED portal using a credit card or bank transfer, or in-person at a service center with cash or card. Additional costs include AED 10 for the Knowledge Dirham and AED 20 for the Innovation Dirham, mandatory for all renewals. For example, a consultancy firm pays around AED 1,500, while a manufacturing license costs more due to higher regulatory oversight. Confirm the exact amount on the DED portal before payment, as fees vary annually.

5. License Collection

Collect your renewed trade license in Dubai from the DED portal or a designated service center after approval. Download the digital license from the DED online system once you receive a confirmation SMS or email, typically within 1 to 3 days of fee payment. Alternatively, pick up a physical copy from a DED office, such as the one in Business Bay, if you prefer a hard copy. Bring your payment receipt and Emirates ID for verification. The renewed license remains valid for one year, ensuring your business complies with Dubai’s legal standards.

The cost of trade license renewal in Dubai ranges from AED 6000 to AED 13000. However, it may vary based on the type of business license and jurisdiction. Consulting with Dubai’s best business setup consultants will help you minimize the costs and manage the process effectively.

Standar Trade License Renwal Fee Dubai

If you do not renew a trade license in Dubai, you face four main consequences. Fines start at AED 250 monthly, escalating with delays. Operations stop, as you cannot trade or renew visas. Legal action follows, including lawsuits if you operate illegally. License cancellation occurs after 6 months, requiring a costly reapplication. The Dubai Economic Department (DED) enforces these rules. Renew on time to avoid penalties and disruptions.

• Set up calendar reminders
• Prepare documents in advance
• Monitor expiry dates regularly
• Use DED e-Services platform
• Leverage the Dubai Now app
• Track application status online