What is a Certificate of Good Standing Dubai: How to get a Certificate of Good Standing in Dubai, Comprehensive Guide

Want to ensure your business or professional activities in Dubai go smoothly? Then, a Certificate of Good Standing is a must-have.

This official document proves that your business or professional license is valid, active, and follows Dubai’s laws. It is important when you need to open bank accounts, sign deals, apply for visas, or grow your business. Whether you run a company or hold a professional license, this Certificate shows that you are in good standing state.

This easy-to-follow guide will explain how to get your Certificate of Good Standing UAE. Also, what it costs, its benefits, and everything else you should know.

What is a Certificate of Good Standing Dubai?  

A Certificate of Good Standing Dubai is an official document. It shows that your business or professional license is real and up to date. This means you have paid all the fees, followed the rules, and have no fines. This paper is also called the Dubai licence status certificate or the Good Standing certificate.

Different departments like Dubai Economy and Tourism (DET), Free Zones, and DMCC give their own certificates. For example, the DET Good Standing Certificate or the Free Zone Good Standing Certificate. No matter what it is called, it means your business or license is in good shape.

How to Get a Certificate of Good Standing in Dubai

Step 1: Log In Online

First, go to the right government website and log in using your UAE Pass. This is a safe way to open your account.

Step 1: Pick Your Certificate Type

Choose the type of Certificate of Good Standing you want. Also, select the time period for your business or professional license.

Step 1: Upload Your Papers

Upload clear copies of your trade license, professional license, and ID documents.

Step 1: Pay the Fee

Pay the cost online using secure methods.

Send Your Application

Double-check all information and then submit your application.

Step 1: Get Your Certificate

You will receive your Certificate digitally or as a printed copy, depending on what you pick.

When and Why Do You Need a Certificate of Good Standing?

You’ll probably need a Certificate of Good Standing Dubai pretty often. This document is proof that your business or license is legitimate and that you are in good legal standing.

In general, people tend to need this Free Zone Good Standing certificate whenever they are trying to:

• Open a new bank account or get a loan.
• Sign a contract or partnership with another business or government.
• Branch out or open another location in Dubai or internationally.
• Get a visa to bring in investment or other business migrants.

This Certificate is also known as the Dubai licence status certificate or the Good Standing certificate, and it serves as a confirmation that you can be relied upon.

How To Renew Your Certificate of Good Standing UAE

Certificates are usually valid for 3 to 6 months. If your business or license is still valid and has not gone through any changes, it should be very easy to renew the Certificate online before it expires. 

Timely renewals ensure you keep your records adequately updated and help avoid any complications.

Dubai has a wealth of experienced business setup consultants who provide reliable and secure PRO services. They can assist you in understanding this process and provide assistance each step of the way.

What Documents Do You Need for a Certificate of Good Standing in Dubai?

To get a Basic Certificate of Good Standing (GSC): 

• Generally, no other documents are required.
• A passport copy is required only if you want to update your passport details. 

For License or Employment Checks

• A trade license copy is required for companies.
• An individual copy of the professional license is required.
• If requested, Proof of Employment is required. 

For Workers Outsourced by the Government

• Some special documents are required to verify that you are a worker of a government contractor.
• Any other required ID documents

Costs and Charges for Certificate of Good Standing in Dubai 

Government Fees:

Ranges from AED 300 to AED 800, depending on the issuing authority, like Dubai Economy, Free Zones, or DMCC Good Standing certificate

Additional Fees (if working with a Professional PRO or Consultancy):  

Additional service fees on the application and renewal process, ranging between AED 200 to AED 600, are applicable.  

Processing Fees for Urgency:  

Certain authorities allow for a fast-track processing fast track (at an additional AED 100 to AED 300) should the Certificate be required on an urgent basis.  

Document Attestation Fees (if required):  

Attestation might be required for use of the Certificate outside the UAE, and this could require payment of an additional AED 200 to AED 500.   

Can the Certificate Be Used Both Internationally and Domestically?  

The Good Standing Certificate UAE shall be used within the UAE and internationally as well.  

The Certificate’s Use in Dubai and the UAE:

In Dubai and the UAE, some of the official purposes the banks, the government, and corporations recognise the Certificate for include opening a bank account, signing a contract, and renewing licenses.  

International Use:  

The Certificate is designed to authenticate the existence of your business or professional license, and is accepted in numerous countries. However, neighbouring countries may additionally require an attestation or a legalisation procedure. This means confirming the validity of the Certificate with the UAE authorities and the respective foreign embassy.

You should check the regulations of the country you intend to use the Certificate in to find out if further instructions are required.

What Are the Requirements to Get a Certificate of Good Standing in Dubai?

There is no way to get a Certificate of Good Standing UAE if your business or professional license does not meet a certain set of business rules and regulations. These rules are made to ensure that only people and businesses who are abiding by the laws are offered the Certificate.

• Your Business or License Should Be Active:

Your trade license or professional license cannot expire. It also needs to be real and not a fake.

• No Problems or Unpaid Fines:

All of your outstanding fees have to be paid, and all fines have to be taken care o, too. The government does a check to see if your company or license is burdened or has any outstanding problems or issues, or fines.

• All Your Documents Must Be Ready:

You have to possess the requisite documentation, such as a photocopy of your trade license or professional license. These documents must be current and accurate.

• Your Records Must Be Clean:

The authorities check your business or license history. If there are no problems or complaints against you, you can get the Certificate.

• Follow the Laws and Rules:

Your business or professional work should follow all the Dubai government rules. This includes safety laws, taxes, and other regulations.

If you meet all these rules, you can apply for the Certificate of Good Standing. This Certificate is proof that your business or license is in good standing and trusted by the government.

Types of Businesses That Can Get a Certificate of Good Standing

Limited Liability Companies (LLCs)

These are businesses owned by two or more people. They can obtain the Certificate to prove that the business exists and is operational.

Sole Proprietorships

If one person is the owner of the business, that person may obtain the Certificate for that license.

Branches of Foreign Companies

A company that is based outside of Dubai and has a branch here is able to get this document, as this document shows that the company is compliant.

Professional Licenses

Certain professionals, including, but not limited to, a doctor, a lawyer, or an engineer, may obtain this Certificate as it confirms that their license is active.

Free Zone Companies

Companies that are in designated locations, such as the DMCC or Dubai Internet City, are also eligible for a Free Zone Good Standing certificate.

Government Contractors and Outsourced Workers

This DET Good Standing Certificate is also a requirement for individuals working for the government or providing services to the government.

This helps to confirm and put the public on notice that your business and/or occupation is reputable and legitimate in Dubai. 

Why is it Important to Comply After You Have Your Certificate

Once you get your Certificate of Good Standing, you have to continue to comply with all the requirements to remain in that status.

What this means is:

• Renew Your Certificate on Time:

You cannot wait until it is going to expires, and you have to keep it for your business to be active. You need to renew it before the expiration date.

• Pay All Fees and Fines:

Always pay your fines and fees by the due date so that you do not lose your good standing.

• Keep your licenses active:

You should renew any licenses you may have so that you don’t let your licenses lapse or become inactive.

• Follow all laws in Dubai:

You must continue to obey all the laws put in place by the government concerning your safety, taxes, and other laws regarding your business.

What if you don’t follow the rules?

Suppose a part of a business or professional’s conditional license is not in good standing. In that case, they can run into very serious problems—namely, they may have their professional or trade license suspended, meaning they cannot work legally. They may incur other fines or penalties. This can completely halt work, damage reputation, and erode the trust that customers and suppliers have in a business.

How Does the Certificate Affect Business Credit and Reputation?

When you have an up-to-date Certificate of Good Standing UAE, it shows banks and partners that you follow the rules and pay fees on time. This makes your business look trustworthy. It can help your company get loans or credit from banks. Investors will be more willing to work with you. This DET Good Standing Certificate helps build a good image for your company in Dubai and around the world.

How Can You Check Your Current Business Status?

You can check your business status anytime on official government websites. Just log in with your UAE Pass digital ID. This lets you see if you have unpaid fines or missing papers before applying for the Certificate.

Can Certificates Be Used in Other Countries?

Good Standing Certificates from Dubai are acknowledged in numerous countries. However, there is an additional step pertaining to attestation/ legalisation. This is done through the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the embassy of the country where you wish to tender the Certificate. Since each country has its own regulations, it is better to verify with the embassy to ease the process.

Why is the UBO Declaration important?

Dubai law states that every business must declare the UBO. UBO refers to the true owner or controller of the business. This provision seeks transparency within the business to stop financial wrongdoing. 

Suppose a company has not tendered the UBO details. In that case, there is a possibility that the company’s Good Standing Certificate UAE is still pending, as the authorities necessitate that as part of the requirements for the legalisation of your status.

What Are the Common Issues That Can Delay or Stop the Issuance of Your Certificate?

There are common reasons that lead to delays or rejection of certificate requests, which include:

• You have pending fines. 
• You have expired your license has expired.
• Your particulars do not correspond with the official records. 

Common Reasons to Expedite Acquisition of Your Certificate Include:

• Prior to applying, confirm that all your particulars are accurate and complete. 
• Ensure that all fines have been cleared and that all licenses are active and current.
• Upload all needed documents as clearly and as completely as possible.

Where to Get Help?  

In the event you run into issues, you can reach the Help Desk from the government site. Many sites use AI chatbots to answer common questions. You can also reach Support to get help.  

With 12+ years of experience, the PRO Services in Dubai help you sidestep risks and minimise imperfections. They offer trustworthy consulting and professional PRO Services Dubai to help ease the process.

FAQs 

Q1: Can you obtain a Certificate of Good Standing if you are in liquidation?  

No, a business cannot obtain a Good Standing Certificate UAE if you are in liquidation or if it is dissolved. This Certificate only applies to businesses that are still active and in good standing.  

Q2: How long does it take to process an application for renewal of the Certificate?  

It takes 1 to 3 working days to process an application, provided that the paperwork is in order and outstanding fines have been settled. It is possible to expedite your application for an additional fee.  

Q3: Is there an age ceiling with respect to a professional individual obtaining a Certificate of Good Standing?  

No, there is no age ceiling. A professional who is licensed in their field may apply for the Certificate, provided that their license is current and active, regardless of their age.  

Q4: Can that business obtain one Certificate of Good Standing for all of the licenses?  

No. Each Certificate or registration typically requires the issuance of a separate document or Certificate. Each license must be applied for individually, especially if they are from different bodies.

Q5: Can I submit my application with digital signatures?

Certainly, Dubai’s government portals have integrated digital signatures for an enhanced customer experience. Please check your individual portal to confirm.

Final Thoughts

A Certificate of Good Standing Dubai is for your professional and entrepreneurial activities. It indicates that your license is authentic and compliant, which facilitates partnerships and trust with banks, thus serving your business and visa expansion needs.

When getting a Certificate, be sure to keep the records (especially the legal ownership of the company) to prevent setbacks. The Certificate is widely accepted in Dubai, as well as globally, enhancing your business’s prestige. 

Secured, simplified, and quick alternatives are available through professional consultants. This DMCC Good Standing Certificate ensures reputation and expansion for your business.

Contact our business setup consultants in Dubai for a streamlined process!