How to Renew Your UAE Free Zone Licence in 2026 — Step-by-Step Guide
UAE free zone licences must be renewed annually. Missing the renewal deadline leads to penalties and ultimately licence cancellation. Here is the complete 2026 renewal guide.
In this guide:
When to Renew
- Annual renewal: UAE free zone licences are valid for exactly 12 months from issue date
- Start early: Begin renewal process 60 days before expiry; avoid last-minute issues
- Reminder: Most free zones send reminder emails 60, 30, and 14 days before expiry
What Happens if You Miss the Deadline
- Grace period: Most free zones allow 30-60 days grace period with late fee
- Late fee: AED 500-2,000 depending on free zone and delay duration
- Cancellation risk: If unpaid after grace period, licence may be suspended or cancelled
- Visa impact: If the company licence lapses, associated investor visas become invalid
Standard Licence Renewal Process
- Step 1: Log into free zone portal; check renewal invoice
- Step 2: Pay renewal fees online
- Step 3: Upload any updated documents if requested (passport if nearing expiry)
- Step 4: Receive renewed licence (digital; usually same day or 1-2 days)
Renewing with Changes (Activity or Name Change)
- Activity addition: Submit along with renewal; add AED 500-1,500 per new activity
- Company name change: Separate amendment request; AED 1,000-3,000 fee
- Shareholder change: Separate amendment; submit transfer documents
Visa Renewal Tied to Licence Renewal
- Investor visa: Renew UAE investor visa at same time as licence renewal
- Dependant visas: Sponsor visa renewals linked to your investor visa renewal
- Timeline: Allow 2-3 weeks for visa renewal after licence is renewed