Trade License Renewal

Complete Guide: Trade License Renewal in the UAE (2025)

What is Trade License Renewal in the UAE?

Trade License Renewal is the mandatory yearly process of extending the validity of your business license issued by an economic authority. Whether your company is registered in the mainland or a free zone, your license must be renewed on time to continue legal operations in the UAE.

Why is Trade License Renewal Important?

• Legal Compliance – Avoid penalties, blacklisting, or forced closure.
• Uninterrupted Operations – Continue accessing corporate banking, visas, and government services.
• Employee Visa Renewal – Only active licenses can sponsor or renew employment and dependent visas.
• Business Credibility – Valid licenses build trust with clients, suppliers, and investors.

Step-by-Step Guide: Trade License Renewal in the UAE (2025)

Renewing your trade license is a critical process to keep your business legally active and avoid penalties. Here’s how it works, step by step:

Step 1: Check License Expiry Date

Start the renewal process at least 30 days before your trade license expires to avoid late fees or disruptions.

Step 2: Ensure a Valid Tenancy Contract (Ejari)

To renew your license, you must have a valid tenancy contract:

• In Dubai, this must be a registered Ejari certificate.
• In other Emirates, a valid tenancy contract attested by the municipality is required.

📌 Note: The tenancy must be valid for at least 1 month from the date of renewal request. If expired, you must renew the lease first before renewing the trade license.

Step 3: Gather Required Documents

• Current Trade License copy
• Valid Ejari / Tenancy contract
• MOA or AOA (if applicable)
• Passport and Emirates ID of all partners/shareholders
• Approvals (if activity-specific – e.g., RTA, DHA, KHDA)

Step 4: Clear Any Outstanding Dues

Before applying for renewal, settle the following:

• Municipality fines (if any)
• Chamber of Commerce fees (where applicable)
• Immigration or labor fines (for companies with visas)

Step 5: Submit the Renewal Application

Submit your license renewal request through the relevant channel:

Brightlink can handle the entire submission process for you.

Step 6: Pay the Renewal Fees

You will be required to pay:

• License renewal fee (based on activity and visa quota)
• Service/authority fees
• Any fines (if applicable)

💡 Brightlink provides a full cost breakdown before payment.

Step 7: Receive the Renewed Trade License

Once processed, you will receive your updated Trade License Certificate.
Processing time: 1 to 3 working days (depending on the authority and document readiness).

Optional Add-ons (handled during or after renewal)

• Activity Change or Trade Name Amendment
• Ejari Renewal
• License Add-ons (branches, partners, etc.)
• Visa renewal or cancellation

Introduction to License Authorities by Emirate

Each authority has its own portal and procedures, but all follow the core legal requirement of annual renewal.

Brightlink’s Role in Your License Renewal

At Brightlink Consultancy, we simplify the renewal process by offering:

• End-to-end license renewal support across all emirates
• Document collection and submission
• Coordination with DED, Free Zones, and utility authorities
• Tenancy contract (Ejari) renewal support
• Trade name and activity modifications during renewal (if needed)
• Visa and PRO add-on packages for business owners

We ensure you meet all requirements—without delays, errors, or penalties.

Conclusion:

Trade license renewal in the UAE is not just a formality—it’s the legal foundation for your business continuity. Whether you’re a small startup or an established firm, renewing on time keeps you compliant, protected, and operational.

Let Brightlink Consultancy manage the entire process for you—accurately, professionally, and hassle-free.

📞 Get in touch today and renew with confidence.