Change of Location

Change of Business Location in Dubai

What is a Business Location Change?

Changing a business location in Dubai is a legal process that requires official approval from government authorities. If a company relocates its office, warehouse, or retail space, the new address must be updated in official records, including the trade license, lease agreement, and business documents.

The Department of Economic Development (DED) in Dubai and freezone authorities regulate the process to ensure compliance with commercial regulations.

Why Change Your Business Location?

Companies may need to change their business location due to various reasons, such as:

✔ Business Expansion – Moving to a bigger office or warehouse
✔ Cost Efficiency – Shifting to a more affordable location
✔ Strategic Relocation – Moving closer to clients or suppliers
✔ Business Activity Change – New location aligns better with operations
✔ Lease Expiry – End of the tenancy contract and need for relocation

Step-by-Step Process to Change Business Location in Dubai

1. Obtain the New Office Lease Agreement

Rent or lease an office space in a DED-approved commercial building.
Ensure the lease agreement is Ejari registered (for mainland companies).

2. Get Initial Approval from DED or Freezone Authority

Submit a request for location change through DED or the relevant freezone authority.
The authorities verify if the new location is zoned for your business activity.

3. Modify the Trade License

Apply for location amendment with the DED (for mainland businesses) or respective freezone authority.
Provide the updated tenancy contract and Ejari registration.
Pay the government fees for the trade license amendment.

4. Update Business Documents

Once the trade license is updated, the company must modify:
✔ Memorandum of Association (MOA) amendment (if applicable)
✔ Chamber of Commerce registration
✔ Bank records (update the business address with your bank)
✔ Utility bills and communications (Etisalat, DEWA, etc.)

5. Inspection and Approval

Some businesses may require an inspection from DED, municipality, or civil defense before approval.
Freezones have their own approval process, including inspections for operational compliance.

6. Receive the Updated Trade License

Once the request is approved, you will receive the updated trade license with the new business location.

Documents Required for Business Location Change in Dubai

✔ Original Trade License
✔ New Ejari Tenancy Contract (for mainland businesses)
✔ No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Landlord
✔ Memorandum of Association (MOA) Amendment (if required)
✔ Board Resolution Approving the Change (for LLCs and corporations)
✔ Passport & Emirates ID of Business Owners
✔ Approvals from Sector-Specific Authorities (if applicable)

Government Authorities Involved in Location Change

Several government entities oversee the location change process, depending on your business jurisdiction:

Department of Economic Development (DED) – For mainland companies
Dubai Municipality – Zoning and land-use approval
Ejari (RERA) – Tenancy contract registration for compliance
Dubai Civil Defense (DCD) – Safety and fire regulations compliance
Dubai Chamber of Commerce – Business registration updates
Dubai Freezone Authorities – If your business is located in a freezone

Common Questions About Changing Business Location in Dubai

1. How long does it take to change the business location?

The process typically takes 5-10 working days, depending on approvals and inspections.

2. Can I change my business location within the same freezone?

Yes, but you must get approval from the freezone authority and update your lease agreement.

3. What happens if I don’t update my business location?

Operating from a new location without updating the trade license can lead to penalties, fines, or legal action.

4. Do I need to notify my bank about the location change?

Yes, you must update your business address with your bank, suppliers, and other relevant parties.

5. Will I need a new trade license after the location change?

No, you don’t need a new license, but your existing trade license will be amended with the new location.

Why Choose Alameer Corporate Services for Business Location Change?

✔ Zero Service Charges – No hidden fees, transparent process
✔ Doorstep Services – We handle everything for you, hassle-free
✔ Fast & Reliable Processing – Avoid delays and get approvals quickly
✔ Government Liaison Experts – We work directly with all Dubai government authorities
✔ One-Stop Business Setup Services – From trade license amendments to corporate structuring