Changing the name of a UAE free zone company is a straightforward process — but requires updating multiple documents and notifying authorities. Here is the step-by-step guide.
Reasons to Change a UAE Company Name
- Rebranding the business to reflect a new strategy
- Merging with another entity and adopting a new combined name
- The original name is too similar to a competitor’s name (risk of passing off)
- The original name contains a term that is no longer permitted (free zone naming rules change occasionally)
- The name needs to be changed to align with the international parent company’s brand
Step 1: Check New Name Availability
Search the free zone’s company name register (through their client portal) and the UAE Trademark Register (trademarks.economy.gov.ae) to confirm the proposed new name is not already in use by another registered entity or trademark.
Step 2: Pass a Shareholder Resolution
The shareholders of the company must pass a resolution approving the name change. The resolution must be signed by all shareholders (or the required majority per the MOA) and notarised if required by the specific free zone.
Step 3: Submit the Name Change Application
Submit to the free zone authority: completed name change application form, shareholder resolution approving the new name, updated MOA reflecting the new name, and payment of the name change fee. Name change fee: AED 500–3,000 depending on the free zone. Processing: 5–15 working days.
Step 4: Update All Documents and Notifications
After the free zone issues an updated trade licence with the new name: update UAE bank accounts (submit new trade licence to each bank), update Emirates IDs and visa records (if company name appears on any employee visas), update MOHRE records (if mainland company), update EmaraTax records (CT and VAT registrations), update contracts and invoices (notify key clients and suppliers of the name change), and update the company website, email signatures, and marketing materials.