When starting a business in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), following trade name regulations is one of the most basic steps. An ideal company name must reflect the company's activity, brand identity, core values, and, in some cases, even its business structure.
However, certain businesses wish to change the name when they add new activities, choose to rebrand or use a different name for legal reasons. Whatever the reason may be for the change in company name in UAE, understanding the steps involved with altering the name is essential. In this blog, we guide you through the process of changing the name of the company.
Back to topWhich Documents are Required for Change of Business Name?
Submitting accurate documents to the authorities simplifies the process of renaming a business. It also ensures compliance with the local regulations. Some of the essential documents required for changing company name in UAE are mentioned below:
- Address proof
- Original trade license
- Copy of Board Resolution
- Articles of Association (AoA)
- Memorandum of Association (MoA)
- Passport and visa copies of all shareholders
Process to Change Company Name in UAE
For entrepreneurs and businesses planning to change their business name, following the general steps mentioned below is crucial. It provides an idea of the process involved in renaming a business. To ensure that it is seamless, seeking assistance from a reputed corporate service provider like Commitbiz LLC can be an option.
Step 1 - Change of a company name can only be done with the approval of all the executive members of the company. So the first step involves organising a board meeting with the agenda of changing the company name.
Step 2 - Next, you need to check trade name availability. This is important to ensure that the chosen business name is not in use currently. Additionally, while choosing the name you must make sure that it adheres to the naming regulations of UAE.
Step 3 - Once that is done, you need to apply for approval from the relevant authority. You must submit the required documents, like copies of trade name reservation certificate, board resolution, and more, along with the application form.
Step 4 - Pay the requisite fees to the authorities.
Post that, the relevant authorities review the application for change of business name. Once it is approved, the modified corporate document will be provided.
Back to topHow Can Commitbiz Help?
Changing the name of a business setup in UAE requires the assistance of a corporate service provider. Experts at Commitbiz LLC offer comprehensive support for trade name change in the UAE. Be it regulatory compliance, documentation preparation, trademark verification, or registration support, we take care of all formalities. By leveraging our professional services, businesses can efficiently navigate the complex process of modifying the trade name. Contact us if you are planning to change the name of the company.
Back to topHow long does it take to update the business name in UAE?
The process of changing a trade name in the UAE can take anywhere between five to six working days.
Which departments are responsible for the change of company name in the UAE?
The Department of Economic Development (DED) and the relevant free zone authority regulate all activities related to change of trade name.
What are the common reasons to change the name of a company?
Companies change names for rebranding purposes, mergers, shifts in business activity, legal compliance, or market expansion.
Is it necessary to update all legal documents after changing the company name?
Yes, you must update all legal documents, including the trade license, memorandum of association, tenancy contracts, and bank accounts.




