Most free zones: AED 500-2,000 for standard deregistration Outstanding fees: Any unpaid licence fees must be settled; may attract penalties

UAE Free Zone — Liquidation and Deregistration Step-by-Step Guide 2026

📅 Last reviewed: August 4, 2026📋 By: UAE Freezone Compare Comparison Team✅ Fact-checked by UAE Freezone Compare Editorial Team

Closing a UAE free zone company requires following the correct liquidation and deregistration process. Here is the complete 2026 step-by-step guide.

In this guide:

Before Starting Deregistration

Cancel visas: All employee and investor visas must be cancelled before company deregistration can proceed
Close bank accounts: UAE bank accounts should be closed or transferred before deregistration
Cancel leases: Any office lease agreements must be terminated
Settle debts: All company debts and outstanding obligations must be settled
File final tax returns: Any outstanding UAE CT or VAT returns must be filed

Step 1: Board resolution authorizing deregistration; signed by all shareholders
Step 2: Submit deregistration application to free zone authority with supporting documents
Step 3: Free zone publishes notice of deregistration (some free zones; typically 30-day notice period)
Step 4: Free zone issues clearance once no outstanding fees or obligations
Step 5: Trade licence cancelled; company struck off register
Step 6: Receive deregistration certificate from free zone

Most free zones: AED 500-2,000 for standard deregistration
Outstanding fees: Any unpaid licence fees must be settled; may attract penalties

CT registration remains: UAE CT registration does not auto-cancel on free zone deregistration; must separately deregister from FTA
Final CT return: File final CT return and deregister with EmaraTax