People don’t search “company license check UAE” because they’re curious.
They search it because something is at stake:
- a payment to a supplier
- a partnership or investor conversation
- a bank account application
- a renewal deadline (and penalties risk)
- or the decision to shut a company down cleanly
This guide covers two things most websites separate, but real business owners face together:
- How to verify a company’s trade license in the UAE using official sources
- What to do if the license is expiring, already expired, or the company needs liquidation
How to Check a Company License in the UAE (Official Methods)
1. National Economic Register (UAE)
The UAE government provides the National Economic Register, which allows you to enquire about a company’s license using its trade name or license number.
This is useful when verifying companies registered outside Dubai or when you want a federal-level confirmation.
2. Dubai Trade License Check (DET / Invest in Dubai)
For Dubai mainland companies, the Invest in Dubai portal allows license searches using:
- Trade license number
- Dubai Unified License (DUL) number
- Registered company name (English or Arabic)
This is the most reliable source for Dubai-based entities.
3. Do Not Rely on Screenshots Alone
A trade license PDF or screenshot is not enough. Always cross-check the details on an official government portal.
What You Must Verify Before Making Any Payment
When checking a company’s license, confirm the following:
- Exact legal company name
- License status (active, expired, suspended)
- Expiry date
- Licensed business activities
If the licensed activity does not match the service being offered, it can create serious issues later during banking, compliance checks, or disputes.
Company License Renewal in Dubai: Why Renewals Get Delayed
Most renewal issues are not caused by late payment. They happen due to overlooked compliance details.
Common renewal blockers include:
- Tenancy or Ejari issues
- Missing regulatory filings
- Shareholder or manager documentation mismatches
- Outstanding authority requirements
A practical approach is to review renewal requirements at least 60 to 90 days before license expiry.
Free Zone Company Liquidation in the UAE
If you’re searching for “free zone liquidation”, it usually means:
- The company is inactive and penalties are building
- You’re restructuring or moving to a new setup
- Banking has become difficult or impossible
- You want to exit cleanly and protect future business plans
Free zone liquidation is a formal process. Simply stopping operations is not enough.
Typical Free Zone Liquidation Process
Step 1: Shareholder Resolution
A formal decision approving the closure of the company.
Step 2: Clear Outstanding Liabilities
This may include authority dues, service providers, or compliance requirements.
Step 3: Visa and Immigration Cancellation
Active visas must usually be cancelled before final company closure.
Step 4: Bank Account Closure
Bank closure letters are often required and can take time.
Step 5: Final License Cancellation
Once all clearances are complete, the free zone issues a final closure certificate.
Meydan Free Zone Liquidation: What to Expect
Meydan Free Zone typically requires documentation such as:
- Shareholder resolution
- Financial statements or audit report (if applicable)
- Liquidator appointment
- Clearance confirmations
- Final liquidation certificate
Requirements vary depending on company structure, activity, and visa status.
Corporate Tax Deregistration After Company Closure
If a company is registered for Corporate Tax, deregistration through the EmaraTax portal may be required after liquidation.
This step is often missed and can cause future compliance issues if ignored.
Red Flags You Should Never Ignore
- Invoice company name does not match the trade license
- License is expired but the company is still operating
- Business activity does not match services offered
- Visas remain active after claiming company closure
- No clarity on tax deregistration
A Practical Way to Stay Protected
Verifying a company license, renewing it properly, or closing a free zone company the right way is not just administration.
It is risk management.
One correct decision made early can prevent months of complications later during banking, compliance reviews, or future business setup.
