IFZA Dubai
Renewal, and the statements it now requires
The licence renews annually, and so does the Establishment Card. Since 30 September 2025 financial statements are mandatory at every renewal.
Simplified or audited
The turnover and headcount decide which, and an audit cannot be arranged the week before renewal.
| Condition | Form | Basis |
|---|---|---|
| Turnover of AED 3m or less, and 9 employees or fewer | Simplified IFZA form | Cash basis |
| Above AED 3m and below AED 50m | Audited | IFRS for SMEs |
| AED 50m and above | Audited | Full IFRS |
Any registered UAE auditor may prepare audited statements.
What a lapse costs you
An expired licence blocks more than it looks like
Late renewal can trigger fines, suspension or cancellation.
An expired licence must be renewed before it can be amended — so a lapse also blocks an activity change, a shareholder change and an additional visa.
Licence renewal is a separate obligation from Corporate Tax and VAT filing. Renewing the licence does not discharge a tax filing.
And if you are closing instead
Formal liquidation is required. Letting the licence lapse is not closure.
Tell us when your licence expires
The renewal form asks for the licence number, the expiry date and what you need. One page, not eight.