Have you been wondering How to obtain a Certificate of Good Standing in Dubai? Securing a Certificate of Good Standing is essential for Dubai-based businesses and professionals, confirming their active compliance with regulatory obligations. Whether you are opening a bank account, setting up a branch, or fulfilling due diligence requirements, obtaining this document can significantly streamline your business activities.
Below is your complete guide, with a special focus on DUQE Free Zone procedures, as well as relevant information for mainland companies and professionals.
What is a Certificate of Good Standing?
Think of this certificate as a comprehensive health check for your business. It officially verifies that your company is validly registered, compliant with regulatory requirements, and free from penalties or unpaid dues. The certificate typically includes:
- Company name and registration number
- Date of incorporation
- Confirmation of active status and compliance
Common Situations Requiring the Certificate:
Businesses and individuals may require a Certificate of Good Standing in various scenarios:
- Corporate banking: Opening or upgrading accounts.
- Branch setup: Expanding to new jurisdictions.
- Large transactions: Major loans, tenders, or franchise agreements.
- Professional transitions: Doctors, pharmacists, lawyers transferring licenses between emirates or abroad.
- Immigration and investor visa applications: Proof of active status and compliance.
Before Applying: Ensure Compliance
To obtain the certificate, your company’s trade licence must be valid, and all dues (including renewal fees, penalties, Knowledge Dirham, and Innovation Dirham) must be cleared. Log in to your DUQE/AXS account or contact customer support if unsure.
Certificate Of Good Standing Application Process for DUQE Free Zone
DUQE Free Zone offers a streamlined, fully digital process:
Log in to AXS Portal:
Use your authorised company credentials. Contact DUQE support to set this up if needed.
Create a Service Request:
Navigate to “Company Services”, select “Certificate of Good Standing / Incumbency Certificate”, and confirm the auto-filled company information.
State the Purpose (Optional):
Briefly explain your request purpose (e.g., “local banking requirement”) to facilitate quick internal processing.
Pay the Fee:
DUQE charges AED 1,000, plus AED 10 Knowledge Dirham and AED 10 Innovation Dirham, totaling AED 1,020. Payment can be completed online via debit or credit card.
Receive and Download:
Once payment is processed, the certificate is typically available immediately as a digitally signed PDF with an official verification code.
Mainland Companies: Key Differences
For businesses licensed by Dubai Economy and Tourism (DET, formerly DED), the process involves obtaining a “To Whom It May Concern” certificate or a status letter via the Invest in Dubai platform or DED service centres. Fees typically range from AED 500 to AED 1,000, and processing can take 1-3 working days.
Certificate Requirements for Professionals
Individual professionals (healthcare providers, lawyers, accountants) typically require:
- A valid professional licence or registration
- Passport or Emirates ID details
- Proof of employment or reason for certificate (if requested)
- Payment of the fee (e.g., MOHAP charges AED 500 for doctors)
Healthcare professionals apply through DHA’s Sheryan System or MOHAP’s online portal, typically receiving certificates within 3 working days.
Processing Time and Validity
- DUQE Free Zone: Immediate upon successful online payment.
- Mainland Companies: Usually 1-3 working days.
- Professionals: Approximately 3 working days.
Certificates are generally valid for up to six months. However, banks or other authorities typically prefer certificates issued within the last three months.
Local vs. International Use
- Local Use: The digitally signed PDF is widely accepted throughout the UAE.
- International Use: Requires notarisation and attestation by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) and relevant embassy legalisation. DUQE customer service can assist with this process.
Fee Comparisons: Why DUQE Stands Out
DUQE’s fee of AED 1,020 is highly competitive compared to other free zones, some of which charge substantially more (e.g., Trakhees charges approximately AED 3,020).
Tips for Smooth Application
- Apply a few days early to allow time to resolve any compliance issues.
- Confirm all company details are up-to-date.
- Save the certificate and reference number for future verification purposes.
- Ensure timely use of the certificate to avoid expiry.
Need Assistance?
For further guidance or support:
-
DUQE Free Zone Support:
Contact via the DUQE website or their customer service line. -
AXS Portal Technical Support:
800-4-AXS or support@axs.ae
Get Your Certificate of Good Standing Today
Securing a Certificate of Good Standing in Dubai is straightforward, especially for DUQE Free Zone companies, provided compliance is maintained. DUQE’s efficient digital process ensures immediate certificate issuance, making it an excellent choice for proactive businesses. Whether you’re a corporate entity or a professional, staying compliant and prepared with this certificate ensures your business opportunities continue to thrive seamlessly.
Ready to simplify your business compliance journey? Contact DUQE’s expert team today and enjoy hassle-free documentation.