How to Renew a UAE Free Zone Company Licence 2026 — Step-by-Step Guide
UAE free zone trade licences are annual and must be renewed to keep your company active. Here is the complete 2026 renewal guide.
In this guide:
When Does UAE Free Zone Licence Need Renewal?
- UAE free zone licences: Annual; expire on the anniversary of your original licence date
- Renewal reminder: Most free zones send email reminders 60 and 30 days before expiry
- Early renewal: Many free zones allow renewal up to 90 days before expiry
- Late renewal: Some free zones charge a late renewal penalty (AED 500-2,000)
UAE Free Zone Licence Renewal Process
- Log in to your free zone portal (e.g., member.ifza.com for IFZA)
- Navigate to “Licence Renewal” section
- Verify all company details are correct (activities, shareholders, address)
- Pay renewal invoice (licence fee + desk/office fee)
- Renewed digital licence issued immediately or within 1-2 business days
- Download and save your renewed trade licence certificate
Documents Sometimes Required for Renewal
- Renewed tenancy agreement (if on a full office, not flexi-desk)
- Updated shareholder passports (if passport renewed since last year)
- Financial statements (some free zones now require annual financials on renewal)
What Happens If You Don Not Renew on Time
- Expired licence: Cannot legally trade; bank may freeze account pending renewal
- Late renewal fee: AED 500-2,000 at most free zones
- Grace period: Most free zones allow a 30-60 day grace period with late fees
- Beyond grace period: Company may be suspended or struck off; reinstatement costs increase