How to Get a UAE Free Zone Letter of Authorisation / Good Standing Certificate 2026
UAE free zone companies frequently need official letters and certificates from their free zone for banking, contracts, and international use. Here is the 2026 guide.
In this guide:
Common Certificates and Letters
- Certificate of Good Standing: Confirms company is active and in good standing with free zone
- Certificate of Incorporation: Copy of original incorporation certificate
- Letter of Authorisation: Authorizes a named person to act on company behalf for a specific purpose
- Incumbency Certificate: Lists current directors, shareholders, and authorized signatories
- No Objection Certificate (NOC): Free zone statement of no objection to a specific action
When Are These Certificates Needed?
- Bank account opening: Banks frequently ask for Certificate of Good Standing and Certificate of Incorporation
- International contracts: Foreign contracting parties may require Good Standing certificate
- Visa applications: Some consulates ask for company incorporation certificate
- Government bids/tenders: Good Standing certificate often required
- Apostille: Good Standing certificate can be apostilled via MOFA for international use
How to Request Certificates
- Free zone portal: Most free zones allow certificate requests via online portal
- Email: Some free zones accept email requests; typically requires 1-3 business days
- Fee: AED 100-500 per certificate depending on free zone and certificate type
Validity Period
- Certificate of Good Standing: Typically valid 3-6 months; banks may ask for a fresh one if older
- Trade licence: Valid until licence expiry date (usually 1 year from issue)