Renewing your company’s trade license each year is mandatory in the UAE, but the process can be really confusing if you don’t know the steps. The good news is many license types can now be renewed online, making it much faster and easier!
Who Can Renew a Trade License Online?
The Department of Economic Development (DED) portal allows digital renewal for most license holders, with some exceptions:
- DED licenses (all types except regulated activities like healthcare and tourism)
- Free zone licenses
- Dubai Creative Clusters Authority (DCCA)
- Dubai Media City (DMC)
- Dubai Production City (DPC)
However, the following still need manual renewal:
- Licenses with ownership changes
- Certain regulated industries
- Some specific free zone company types
If you’re unsure whether your license qualifies, login to the DED portal and check your status.
Step-by-Step Guide to Renew Online
Follow these steps for easy digital renewal:
1. Gather Documents
You’ll need digital copies of your current license, e-stamp, owner’s Emirates ID front and back, and any other activity permits required. Having files ready avoids delays retrieving papers.
2. Login to DED Portal
Access the DED renewal portal using your email and trade license number.
3. Enter Business Details
Confirm or update important company details like business activity, ownership percentages, contact information, number of visa quotas needed.
4. Pay Renewal Fees
Fees are calculated based on factors like activities, shareholders, visa quotas. Pay via credit card right on the portal.
5. Download Renewed Documents
Your updated trade license, estamp and other certificates are available for download within 1-2 days!
What Documents are Needed?
Before starting the renewal process, gather digital copies of:
- Current Trade License – Download from DED portal
- E-Stamp – Digital seal tied to your specific license
- Owner’s Emirates ID – Front and back sides
- Other Permits – Customs regs, specific activity approvals
Having these files ready avoids delays retrieving papers during the process.
Renewal Fees Breakdown
Exact charges depend on your license type and details:
- Dubai DED – Starts at AED 1,500
- Free Zone – Around AED 2,000+
- Creative City – AED 1,000
- DMCCA – AED 15,000+
The number of business activities, shareholders, visa quotas and other factors impact final costs. Fees must be paid by credit card online.
Know the Renewal Deadlines
Meeting renewal due dates is crucial to avoid fines up to AED 15,000:
- DED Licenses – Within 30 days after your expiration date
- Free Zones – Often 1-3 months before expiration
Grace periods exist too. For example, DED gives an extra 3 months after expiration to renew before canceling a license. But hefty financial penalties still apply for late renewals!
Getting Help with Trade License Renewals
If any issues come up during renewal, quickly reach out for assistance:
- Call DED hotline at 800 70 or use website chat
- Visit your free zone authority office
- Hire a consultancy like Company ABC for personalized help
Our experts guide hundreds of clients through successful online renewal every year.
