Thinking about closing your business or restructuring your company in the UAE? If your operations are based in the capital, knowing how to cancel trade license in Abu Dhabi is a crucial step you can’t afford to overlook.
Whether you’re wrapping up your business, shifting to a different activity, or simply no longer using your trade license, this guide will walk you through how to cancel a trade license in Abu Dhabi — the legal way, the easy way.
What Does Trade License Cancellation Mean?
Cancelling your trade license in Abu Dhabi is a legal process that officially shuts down your business entity registered under the Department of Economic Development (DED). It’s not just about ceasing operations — it’s about clearing all legal ties, closing accounts, cancelling visas, and avoiding fines for non-renewal.
Failing to cancel your license properly could lead to penalties, blacklisting, and legal complications, even if your company is inactive.
Why You Might Need to Cancel Your Trade License in Abu Dhabi
There are several reasons business owners choose to cancel their license:
- Closing the business permanently
- Restructuring or merging the company
- Switching to another emirate or free zone
- Avoiding penalties for inactivity or expired licenses
- Regulatory compliance
How to Cancel Trade License in Abu Dhabi – Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Prepare and Clear All Obligations
Clear all outstanding debts or fees, cancel visas and labor cards, close your corporate bank account, and obtain clearance from relevant authorities (immigration, labor, utilities).
Step 2: Cancel Work Permits and Visas
Coordinate with MOHRE and GDRFA to cancel employee work permits, partner visas, and establishment cards.
Step 3: Submit License Cancellation Request to Abu Dhabi DED
Submit the request via TAMM or in person at ADDED. Required documents include: original trade license, MoA, clearance certificates, partner/shareholder resolution, and liquidation report for LLCs.
Step 4: Pay Final Fees and Collect Certificate
Once approved and fees are paid, you’ll receive the Trade License Cancellation Certificate.
Trade License Cancellation for Different Business Types
- Sole Establishment – Easier and quicker to cancel
- LLC – Requires liquidation process and auditor’s report
- Civil Company – May require additional professional clearances
How Long Does It Take?
The timeline can range from 3 days to 2 weeks depending on business activity, number of partners, and document readiness.
Why Choose Al Tawakkal to Cancel Your Trade License?
At Al Tawakkal, we offer complete assistance for trade license cancellation in Abu Dhabi — from start to finish. We ensure:
Fast-track processing with TAMM and ADDED
- Visa and labor clearance support
- Tenancy contract closure coordination
- Document preparation and submission
- Zero penalties by avoiding delays
- Reliable and affordable pricing
Final Thoughts
Cancelling a trade license isn’t just paperwork — it’s a legal obligation that must be done properly. Now that you know how to cancel trade license in Abu Dhabi, the smartest next step is to leave it to professionals.Contact Al Tawakkal today and let our expert team handle the process efficiently, so you can move forward without worries.
