How to Close a Business on the Dubai Mainland

The cancellation, step by step

1. 1

   Know who files the application

   For an establishment or a branch, the cancellation application is submitted by the party concerned. For companies, it is the appointed liquidator who submits it.

2. 2

   Cancel labour cards (sole proprietorship)

   If you run a sole proprietorship, cancel your labour cards through the Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation before closing out the licence.

   Documents:Labour cards
3. 3

   Appoint a liquidator and lodge their letter

   The liquidator issues a letter accepting to liquidate the company, submitted together with their supporting documents.

   Documents:Liquidator's acceptance letterCopy of the licenceAuditor registration certificateNotarized signature specimen
4. 4

   Publish the liquidation announcement

   Announce the liquidation in two Arabic local newspapers for one day only. This gives debtors 45 days to submit their claims.

   Documents:Newspaper announcement
5. 5

   Confirm no objections were raised

   The liquidator and the partners provide a declaration letter stating that no objections were received from any other parties within 45 days from the date of the announcement.

   Documents:Declaration letter from liquidator and partners
6. 6

   Check current fees and timelines

   Exact fees and processing times are not fixed here — confirm the current amounts and any additional permits to cancel on the authority's website before you file.

Fees and timelines may change — verify with the official source.

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