How to Renew a Trade Licence in Dubai (DED/DET, Fees & Documents)
You must renew a Dubai mainland trade licence before it expires. This keeps your business legal. Renewal is done through the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET, formerly DED). You can renew online through DET e-services or the Invest in Dubai platform. You can also use the DED Business app, or go to an approved service centre. You need three main things. First, a valid Ejari-registered tenancy contract. Second, the filled BR/1 renewal form. Third, payment of the renewal fees shown on the payment voucher. Fees and late-renewal fines change by licence type and activity. The DET portal confirms them when you apply.
At a glance
- Cost:
- Varies by licence type and activity — confirm on the DET portal
- Total time:
- Same day once documents are in order
- Steps:
- 6 steps
- Where to apply:
- u.ae
Last reviewed October 2026 against official sources. Re-checked annually · next review due October 2027.
The Steps
Follow these in order
Each card shows the phase, expected time, and any cost. Data checked against official UAE sources(October 2026).
0 of 6 steps
- Before You Go Self-check
Check your Ejari tenancy contract
Make sure your Ejari-registered tenancy contract is still valid. It must have at least one month left. An expired Ejari, or one that is about to expire, is the most common reason a renewal is delayed.
Click to mark as done
- Fill / Prepare 30 min
Complete the BR/1 renewal form
Fill in the BR/1 renewal form with your current licence details. If anything has changed, update it before you submit. This includes partners, activities, and address. Changes may need extra documents.
Click to mark as done
- Submit & Pay Same day
Submit the renewal application
Submit through DET e-services, the Invest in Dubai platform, the DED Business app, or an approved service centre. DET checks your application and gives you a payment voucher. DET also has an auto-renewal service. If you qualify, SMS your trade licence number to 6969 and you will receive a payment voucher.
Click to mark as done
- Submit & Pay At voucher issue Varies — confirm on the DET portal
Pay the renewal fees
Pay the amount shown on your payment voucher. You can pay by card, E-Dirham, bank, or at a service centre. Fees change by licence type, activity, and any approvals you need. Check your voucher for the exact amount.
Click to mark as done
- Receive On payment
Receive the renewed licence
Your renewed licence is issued once your payment goes through. Download the digital copy, or collect it. Keep it with your company records.
Click to mark as done
- Follow Up Same week
Renew linked registrations
Check what else depends on your licence. This includes your establishment card, visas, corporate tax and VAT registrations, and bank records. If your licence expires, it can block visa renewals and bank transactions.
Click to mark as done
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I start the renewal?
Start well before the expiry date. Starting at least 30 days early is the common advice. This way, an expired Ejari or a missing approval does not push you past the expiry date.
What happens if I renew late?
If you renew late, you will pay fines. A late renewal can also block visa renewals and bank transactions. The fines change by licence type. Check the current fines on the DET portal before you trust any figure.
Is Ejari required for renewal?
Yes. You need a valid Ejari-registered tenancy contract to renew a mainland licence in Dubai.
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