Regulatory Framework · UAE
COMPANY LIQUIDATION
License cancellation
We assist businesses with preparing the required documents and coordinating trade licence cancellation with the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism or the relevant free zone authority. Final cancellation is subject to the authority’s requirements and approval; related fees may apply until completion.
Chamber of Commerce membership cancellation
Where required, mainland companies may need to cancel their Dubai Chambers membership and settle outstanding fees before final closure. We help determine the applicable requirements.
Establishment card cancellation (if applicable)
Where applicable, establishment card cancellation is coordinated with the relevant immigration authority after the associated visa and labour requirements have been addressed. The required sequence varies by jurisdiction and company status.
Publication of liquidation notice in newspapers
Where required, the appointed liquidator arranges publication of the dissolution notice so creditors have an opportunity to submit claims under the applicable procedure.
Full liquidation process support
From the shareholders’ resolution to the completion of the closure process, a designated contact coordinates your file and provides progress updates within the agreed scope of services.
Regulatory correspondence and coordination
We assist with document preparation, regulatory correspondence and coordination with UAE authorities, banks and free zone regulators, subject to applicable legal requirements and any necessary authorisations.
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F A Q
What does company liquidation in the UAE involve?
The process depends on the company type and jurisdiction. It generally includes approving the liquidation, settling outstanding liabilities, cancelling the trade licence, cancelling visas and immigration files, completing tax deregistration and obtaining the required closure documents from the relevant authorities.
How long does company liquidation in the UAE take?
The timeline depends on whether the company is registered on the mainland or in a free zone, as well as on its employees, bank accounts, tax registrations and outstanding liabilities. A straightforward liquidation may take several weeks, while audits, authority approvals or tax deregistration can extend the process.
What documents are required to close a company in the UAE?
Typical documents include the trade licence, incorporation documents, a shareholders’ or partners’ resolution, identification documents of the owners and directors, and relevant financial and tax records. The exact requirements depend on the emirate, free zone and legal form of the company.
Is the liquidation process different for mainland and free zone companies?
Yes. Mainland companies and free zone companies are closed through different licensing authorities and follow different procedures. Requirements for a liquidator, audit, public notice and NOCs may also vary depending on the jurisdiction.
Do I need to deregister for Corporate Tax and VAT when closing a company?
If the company is registered for Corporate Tax or VAT, cancelling the trade licence alone is not sufficient. The company must also complete the relevant tax deregistration with the Federal Tax Authority and settle applicable filing and payment obligations. The FTA provides a separate Corporate Tax deregistration process for businesses that cease operations or enter liquidation.
Can a company be liquidated if it has outstanding debts or liabilities?
Liquidation does not automatically remove the company’s obligations. Outstanding amounts owed to employees, suppliers, banks, government authorities and the tax authority generally need to be settled before the company can be fully closed.
What happens to employee visas and the company bank account during liquidation?
Employee and investor visas linked to the company normally need to be cancelled as part of the closure process. The corporate bank account is usually closed after the required settlements have been completed and the bank has received the necessary supporting documents.
Do I need a liquidator to close my UAE company?
Many mainland company liquidations require appointment of a liquidator under applicable UAE company law. Eligibility and approval requirements depend on the legal form, jurisdiction and licensing authority. The liquidator’s duties can include handling creditor claims, assets and required reports. Some free zones offer simplified closure procedures for eligible companies; others impose additional liquidator or reporting requirements. We help determine which requirements apply and can coordinate with appropriately qualified professionals.
