UAE trade licences must be renewed annually. Missing the renewal deadline triggers fines and can lead to visa cancellations. Use this checklist to ensure a smooth renewal in 2025.
When to Start the Renewal Process
Start 30-60 days before your licence expiry date. Why: some steps (health insurance renewal, visa status checks) take 5-14 days. Starting early prevents the licence from lapsing (lapsed licence = immediate halt to visa renewals and government services).
UAE Trade Licence Renewal Checklist
Before applying: check all employee visas are valid (renewal of a lapsed visa is more expensive than renewing a valid visa), confirm health insurance for all employees is valid and up to date, confirm your office lease/flexi-desk agreement covers the next licence period, check for any outstanding MOE or MOHRE violations that could block renewal (labour complaints, WPS violations), and ensure UBO information is up to date.
During renewal (free zone): log in to the free zone portal, select licence renewal, confirm activities (no changes or declare changes), upload required documents (proof of health insurance, passport copies if expired, new office lease if applicable), pay renewal fee, and download renewed licence certificate. During renewal (mainland DED): apply via DED website or Amer Centre (for Dubai), upload Ejari (office lease renewed), confirm activities, pay licence fee, and receive renewed licence (digital).
After Renewal
After the renewed licence is issued: download and save the renewed licence PDF, update the licence copy with your bank (some banks require updated licence for account operation), update the licence copy with any government supplier portals you are registered on, and if investor visas expire soon: start visa renewal process immediately after licence renewal (visa renewal requires a valid licence).