A Complete Guide on How to Change or Add Business Activity in Dubai

A good business owner always has growth on their mind, and that’s how a company puts down its roots in the UAE. However, with growth comes inevitable change. When these changes go unchecked, they may outgrow the company’s legal framework and compliance with UAE VAT regulations. Consequently, the company risks slipping out of legal purview, putting its operations in jeopardy.

To avoid this, it becomes essential to stay updated with the latest rules and regulations issued by the UAE Government. If you find yourself in a position where your business activity no longer aligns with your company’s growth, it is time to consider changing or adding new activities to your business license.

The process of updating your business activity is relatively simple and straightforward. Let’s walk through the steps required to ensure your company remains compliant. Additionally, we’ll explain how our expertise can help streamline the entire process for you.

Steps to Change or Add a New Business Activity

1. Obtain Initial Approval: Begin by securing approval from the DED to proceed with the process.
2. Complete the BR1 Form: Fill out the BR1 form and get it attested by the Managing Director. While the partners do not need to sign the form, their names must still be included.
3. Submit the BR1 Form to DED: Once attested, submit the completed form to the DED.
4. Receive the No-Objection Certificate (NOC): After reviewing the application, the DED officer will issue an NOC for adding the new business activity.
5. Prepare the Addendum to LLC Agreement:
   • Engage a legal translator to prepare an addendum to your LLC agreement.
   • If the agreement is in Arabic, no translator’s seal will be necessary.
6. Attest the Addendum:
   • Have the addendum attested at the Notary Public within the Department of Economic Development (DED).
   • At this stage, all business partners must appear before the notary to sign the Court Agreement.
   • If any partners are outside the country, a Power of Attorney (POA) must be prepared and presented in court.
7. Submit the Required Documents to DED: Hand over all necessary documents, including the attested addendum, to the DED for further processing.
8. Make the Payment: Complete the required fee payment to finalize the process with the DED.
9. Procure the Updated License: Upon successful submission, you will receive your updated trade license reflecting the newly added business activity.

Documents Needed to Change or Add a Business Activity

To initiate the process, ensure you have the following documents ready for the initial approval:

• Approval from government authorities
• Original certificate of registration
• Proof of reserved trade name
• Registration and licensing application for the new business activity
• A copy of the lease agreement
• Approval from the Ministry of Economy
• Original trade license
• Resolution from the Company’s Board of Directors

Once you receive the initial approval, you will need to submit these documents alongside the updated Memorandum of Association (MOA). The MOA must include the newly added business activity. Additionally, you may need to update the Service Agent Contract if applicable.

How We Can Help

While the process is straightforward, it does involve several formalities and approvals that can be time-consuming if not managed efficiently. This is where we step in to assist. Our team specializes in handling business activity modifications, ensuring:

• Accurate documentation
• Seamless coordination with government authorities
• Timely approvals and attestation

By entrusting us with the process, you save valuable time and effort while ensuring compliance with UAE laws. Contact us today to make your business activity update smooth and hassle-free.

Cross Link International

If you are dreaming of starting your own company and carrying it forward with a team of employees under your wing, then consider that dream accomplished. We, Cross Link International, will start your company for you, so you don’t have to!

Cross Link International is one of the best business setup consultants in Dubai and will assist you in company formation, PRO Services, Visa Services, Business License renewal, Trade Licenses, free zone company formation, LLC company formation and many more services that entail business formation. Reach out to us through + 971 4321 6631 / + 971 55 744 6445 or fill-in this form to get a free consultation from us.