Trade License Renewal Dubai 2025

Trade License Renewal in Dubai: Complete 2025

Guide for Businesses

If you’re operating a business in Dubai, keeping your trade license valid is not just a legal requirement—it’s essential to ensure uninterrupted operations. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about trade license renewal in Dubai in 2025, including the cost, documents, penalties, and steps involved. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, SME, or large enterprise, KrezKo is here to make your business setup in Dubai and license renewal seamless.

What is a UAE trade license?

A UAE trade license is an official authorization issued by the government—either from the mainland (Department of Economic Development) or a UAE free zone authority—that allows businesses to legally operate within the country. It is a mandatory requirement for all types of businesses, regardless of size, sector, or legal structure.

Obtaining a trade license is not just a formality; it offers several critical benefits:

✅ Grants legal permission to operate a business in the UAE
💳 Enables opening corporate bank accounts and conducting financial transactions
🏛️ Provides access to government services and incentives
🛡️ Protects the business from legal and regulatory risks
🧾 Establishes business credibility and professionalism

The type and validity of a trade license may vary based on the nature of the business activity, location (mainland or free zone), and license category (commercial, professional, or industrial).

Whether you’re starting a new business or renewing your existing license, KrezKo ensures that your trade license in Dubai or UAE meets all legal and operational requirements—seamlessly and efficiently.

How to Renew Trade License in Dubai, UAE?

Trade license renewal is a relatively straightforward process if your business is compliant. Here's how:

Clear outstanding dues (e.g., rent, fines)
Prepare the required documents (see below)
Submit the renewal request to DED via eServices, Tasheel center, or through your business consultant
Pay the renewal fee
Receive your updated license

Documents Required for Trade License Renewal in Dubai

To renew your trade license in Dubai, you’ll typically need:

Copy of existing trade license
Tenancy contract (Ejari) – valid for at least 1 month
Passport copies of shareholders/owners
Emirates ID copies
BR/1 form (renewal application)

Additional documents may be required based on your business activity.

Steps to Renew a Trade License in Dubai in 2025

Validate tenancy contract via Ejari
Ensure your business activities are updated
Fill and sign the BR/1 form
Submit the documents via DED portal or service center
Pay the trade license renewal fee
Receive your renewed license instantly or within 1-2 working days

With KrezKo’s expert PRO services in Dubai, you can avoid delays and compliance issues

Cost of Trade License Renewal in Dubai

The cost to renew a trade license in Dubai depends on:

Business type and activity
Number of business partners
Office space size

On average, the renewal fee ranges between AED 12,000 to AED 15,000. Additional charges may apply for approvals or external activities.

What is the Grace Period for Trade License Renewal?

Dubai authorities typically offer a 30-day grace period after the license expiry date. During this time, businesses must renew the license to avoid fines or legal action

What is the Penalty if You Fail to Renew the Trade License in Dubai?

Failing to renew your license within the grace period can result in:

AED 5,000 fine for operating without a valid license
AED 250/day for delays after the grace period
Blacklisting or business license suspension

Avoid these penalties by partnering with KrezKo – your trusted business setup and compliance partner in the UAE.

Why Choose KrezKo for Trade License Renewal in Dubai?

At KrezKo, we specialize in business setup in UAE, corporate tax compliance, PRO services, and trade license renewal. With our expert team handling your license renewals, you get:

✅ Faster processing ✅ Error-free documentation ✅ Compliance with DED and UAE regulations ✅ Timely reminders and support

What is the difference between certificate of incorporation and trade license in UAE?

In the UAE, a Certificate of Incorporation confirms that your company is legally registered, while a Trade License gives you official permission to operate your business. The certificate is issued upon company formation, whereas the trade license is required to carry out specific business activities and must be renewed annually. Both are essential but serve different purposes in the business setup process.

Is a trade license the same as company registration?

No, a trade license is not the same as company registration in the UAE. Company registration refers to the process of legally forming your business entity, during which you receive a Certificate of Incorporation confirming that your company exists under UAE law. A trade license, on the other hand, is the official document issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED) or a free zone authority that authorizes your business to operate specific activities (like trading, consultancy, or services). In short: Company registration = Legal formation of the business Trade license = Legal permission to operate the business Both are required to legally start and run a business in the UAE.

Does DED issue a certificate of incorporation?

No, the DED does not issue a Certificate of Incorporation. It issues a Trade License, which acts as proof of legal business operation in the UAE mainland. Certificates of Incorporation are typically issued by free zone authorities.

How can I print my trade license online in Dubai?

On Business Dashboard page, under My Transactions, click Print License. In the Licenses section, in the License Nr. text box, type your license number. Click View/Print.

What is the legal name in a trade license?

The legal name in a trade license is the officially registered name of your company as recognized by UAE authorities. It appears on all legal documents and must comply with naming rules set by the DED or free zone. This name may differ from your brand or trade name used for marketing.

How do I check if my company is listed or not in the UAE?

You can check if your company is listed in the UAE by visiting the DED website for mainland businesses or the respective free zone authority’s site for free zone companies. Simply enter your company name or license number in their search tools.

Can I use my name as a trade name?

Yes, you can use your personal name (first name or full name) as a trade name in the UAE. Unlike surnames, personal names are generally considered distinctive enough to act as trademarks without needing extra proof of uniqueness. However, your trade name must still comply with UAE naming rules and not violate any trademarks or public decency laws.