Closing a business in a free zone
Related eServices
- Free zone licence cancellation – Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation, Dubai
- Procedures for cancellation/De-registering a trade licence – Dubai Development Authority
- Licence cancellation – Government of Ajman
Closing a company in the UAE’s free zone is a structured process handled by the relevant free zone authority. It typically involves passing a shareholder resolution to close the business, cancelling all employee and investor visas, settling any outstanding financial obligations, and deregistering with the Federal Tax Authority if applicable. The company must then submit a licence cancellation or liquidation application, along with required clearances and documents. Once all requirements are met and approved, the authority issues a final de-registration certificate confirming the company’s closure.
To close a branch of a free zone company, you must close the branches of the free zone companies registered with Ministry of Economy and Tourism. And for companies not registered with Ministry of Economy and Tourism, you must provide an attested decision of the parent company to cancel the free zone company branches.
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Updated on:
16 Apr 2026
