Updating a trade license in Dubai is mandatory when business details change. The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), in coordination with Dubai Municipality (DM), regulates this process. Non-compliance can result in fines up to AED 5,000.
What Is a Trade License According to Dubai Law?
A trade license is a legal document that authorizes a business to operate within Dubai. It is issued by DET and supervised by Dubai Municipality, depending on the activity sector.
| Attribute | Verified Value |
|---|---|
| Issuing Authority | Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) |
| Regulatory Supervision | Dubai Municipality (DM) |
| License Categories | Commercial, Industrial, Professional |
| Validity | 1 year, renewable |
| Legal Basis | UAE Federal Law No. 2 of 2015 (Commercial Companies Law) |
When Do You Need to Update Your Trade License?
Dubai business law mandates immediate license updates upon any registered change. This includes:
- Trade name modifications
- Activity additions or removals
- Changes in legal structure
- Office or branch relocation
- Partner or shareholder updates
Regulatory Reference: DET Circular 14/2023 imposes fines up to AED 5,000 for failure to report such changes.
Important: License renewal is a separate process and does not require updates unless business data has changed.
What Are the Steps to Update a Trade License in Dubai?
✅ Online Process via DET Trader Portal
- Log in to https://dedtrader.ae using UAE Pass
- Choose “License Amendment”
- Upload required documents (based on amendment type)
- Pay the amendment fee (AED 300–AED 1,500)
- Download the updated license via email or portal
✅ Offline Process
- Visit a DET Happiness Center, Tasheel, or Aamil
- Submit the amendment request manually
- Pay the fees and receive the updated trade license
What Documents Are Needed to Update a Trade License?
Document requirements depend on the amendment category. Each must be submitted in PDF format.
| Amendment Type | Required Documents (Verified) |
|---|---|
| Name Change | Updated MOA, name approval certificate |
| Activity Change | NOC from relevant authority (if needed), revised MOA |
| Address Change | New Ejari (mandatory), tenancy contract, updated location map |
| Partner Update | Updated MOA, passport & Emirates ID copies of new/removed partners |
| Legal Type Change | Board resolution, revised MOA, legal reclassification documents |
Note: Ejari is only required if your address is being changed.
How Long Does the Trade License Update Take?
| Submission Method | Verified Timeframe |
|---|---|
| Online (via Portal) | 1–2 business days |
| Offline | 2–4 business days |
| Express (via PRO) | As fast as 24 hours |
⚠️ Delays may occur for regulated activities requiring Dubai Municipality or Civil Defense approvals.
What Are the Fees for Trade License Updates in Dubai?
| Fee Type | Verified Cost Range |
|---|---|
| License Amendment Application | AED 300 – AED 1,500 |
| Name Reservation (if applicable) | AED 620 |
| Monthly Fine for Late Amendment | AED 250/month |
Does Dubai Municipality Approval Apply to All Businesses?
No. Dubai Municipality (DM) approval is required only for businesses in regulated sectors:
- Food & Beverage
- Health & Beauty
- Industrial and Environmental Services
You must obtain NOCs from DM’s Food Control Section, Health & Safety, or Environmental Protection Department, depending on your activity.
Can You Update a Trade License Without Canceling It?
Yes. DET allows seamless amendments without canceling the existing license. You can:
- Retain your trade license number
- Maintain business continuity
- Avoid reapplication costs or delays
All updates are reflected in the same business registration number.
Can a PRO or Business Consultant Handle the Update?
Yes. Licensed service providers can manage:
- Documentation preparation
- DET and DM authority approvals
- Fee submission and final delivery
📎 Reference: DET Circular No. 3/2023 – PROs are officially recognized intermediaries.
All data Collected from:
Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET)
Why Businesses Use The Infinite Service for License Updates
The Infinite Service is a registered PRO consultancy in Dubai, specialized in DET and Dubai Municipality licensing procedures.
They help with:
- ✅ 24-hour express trade license amendments
- ✅ Legal documentation checks and updates
- ✅ Dubai Municipality and DET NOC management
- ✅ Transparent pricing (no hidden charges)
- ✅ Full compliance with federal and emirate-level regulations
Ensure your business stays legally compliant—update your trade license with speed and accuracy through The Infinite Service.
