Question 1

What happens if a trade licence lapses?

Accepted Answer

Late renewal carries fines that escalate with time, and after a longer grace period the licence is cancelled — meaning frozen bank accounts and expired residency visas linked to the entity. We renew at least 30 days before expiry to avoid any of that.

Question 2

Do I need to file UBO information separately?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Most UAE entities must maintain an Ultimate Beneficial Owner register and notify the licensing authority of changes within 15 days. We track this for you and file changes whenever ownership shifts.

Question 3

Is Economic Substance still in force?

Accepted Answer

ESR was repealed for financial periods starting on or after 1 January 2023, but earlier-period filings can still be reviewed and reassessed. If you held a relevant activity in 2019–2022, your prior submissions still need to be defensible.

Question 4

How are you billed?

Accepted Answer

Most engagements run on a fixed monthly retainer in AED, billed in advance, with VAT shown separately on the tax invoice. One-off projects (company setup, a website build, a relocation move) are quoted up front with no hourly surprises.

Question 5

Can you work with us if we don't live in the UAE?

Accepted Answer

Yes — most of our clients are based outside the UAE when they first engage us. We sign and onboard remotely, collect documents through a secure portal, and only need you in person for steps that the authorities require, such as biometrics for your residency visa.