If you’re setting up a business in the UAE, one of the key documents you’ll need is an establishment card. The registration process for your establishment card differs based on your business location—whether you are setting up in Dubai Mainland, Abu Dhabi and other emirates, or a UAE Free Zone.
This essential piece of identification enables businesses to access a wide range of government services, from sponsoring employee visas to managing payroll and engaging with regulatory bodies. Without it, businesses cannot legally hire foreign employees or complete essential administrative tasks.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the establishment card, including its purpose, how to apply, sector-specific requirements, and the renewal process. Whether you’re a startup, an established enterprise, or operating in a specialised industry, understanding the establishment card is crucial for smooth business operations in the UAE.
What is an Establishment Card?
The establishment card serves as a key identifier for businesses, much like a bank card does for individuals. It contains essential business details such as the company’s name, a unique card number, and its expiry date. The Immigration Authority of the emirate where the company is registered issues this card, officially recognising the business within the UAE.
The establishment card is necessary for various administrative and legal functions, including:
Sponsoring Employee Visas
The establishment card allows businesses to legally sponsor foreign employees by facilitating the work permit and residency visa application process. Without it, companies cannot employ expatriate staff.
Accessing Government Services
The establishment card is required for:
- Trade licence applications and renewals
- Tax registration and compliance
- Labour approvals and workforce management
Managing Business Transactions
It simplifies regulatory compliance, renewal processes, and company-related immigration procedures, ensuring smooth operations and avoiding delays with government authorities.
Financial Management and Payroll Processing
For employers, the establishment card streamlines payroll operations by linking businesses to the GDRFA and ICP systems. This integration ensures efficient handling of employee wages, visa renewals, and government-related financial transactions.
Corporate Banking and Business Perks
Having an establishment card enables companies to open corporate bank accounts, apply for business permits, and access financial services. Businesses operating in free zones also benefit from expedited visa processing and administrative incentives.
Compliance and Tax Considerations
The establishment card is a key document for fulfilling tax and legal requirements in the UAE. Companies must ensure timely renewal of the card to avoid penalties and maintain compliance with UAE regulations.
- Serves as proof of business legitimacy, building investor confidence.
- Grants access to government services such as trade licence applications and utility connections.
The establishment card is integral to ensuring smooth business operations and regulatory compliance in the UAE.
Other Names for the Establishment Card
The establishment card is also referred to as:
- Computer Establishment Card (CEC)
- Company Immigration Card (CIC)
These terms are commonly used interchangeably in official and business communications.
Mainland vs Free Zone Establishment Cards: Comparison
Many businesses in the UAE operate either on the mainland or within a free zone. Depending on your business location, the process for obtaining and managing an establishment card varies.
Which One Should You Choose?
Choose a mainland establishment card if your business needs to operate across multiple emirates and requires flexibility.
Choose a free zone establishment card if your operations are limited to a specific free zone and you want access to its incentives and streamlined processes.
How to Get an Establishment Card in a UAE Free Zone
If you are setting up a business in a UAE Free Zone, the process differs from mainland registration. Each free zone operates as an independent jurisdiction, meaning that you must apply directly through the respective free zone authority rather than through GDRFA or ICP. To register, follow these steps:
1. Choose a Free Zone
- Select a free zone that aligns with your business activities. Different free zones have different industry focuses, such as technology, finance, logistics, or trading.
2. Submit an Application to the Free Zone Authority
- Visit the official website of your chosen free zone. Each free zone has its own application process and portal.
- Provide the necessary documentation, including a trade licence (issued by the free zone authority), passport copies of shareholders and authorised signatories, Emirates ID (if applicable) and business activity details.
3. Pay the Establishment Card Fees
- Fees vary by free zone authority but typically include an application fee, establishment card issuance fee, and processing fees.
- Payment can usually be completed online via the free zone’s smart services portal.
4. Receive Confirmation & Issuance
- Once the application is approved, you will receive a digital copy of your establishment card via email or the Free Zone’s online portal.
- Physical cards may also be issued in some free zones.
Where to Apply for a Free Zone Establishment Card?
Here are some of the main UAE free zones and their respective portals:
- DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre) → DMCC Portal
- JAFZA (Jebel Ali Free Zone) → JAFZA Portal
- DIFC (Dubai International Financial Centre) → DIFC Portal
- RAKEZ (Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone) → RAKEZ Portal
Important Note: Some free zones manage visa processing internally and do not require E-Channel registration, while others require separate registration. Always check with your free zone authority to confirm the specific requirements.
How Can I Get An Establishment Card in Dubai Mainland?
To apply for an establishment card in Dubai, follow these steps:
1. Visit the GDRFA Website
- Go to the GDRFA Smart Services portal.
- Choose between the three available options based on your business type (Mainland, Free Zone, or Government Entity).
2. Log in or Create an Account
- Register using your UAE Pass or create an account on the portal.
- Ensure you have access to your company’s trade licence and related documents.
3. Fill Out the Application Form
- Enter details such as the trade licence number, company information, and authorised signatories.
- Attach the required supporting documents.
4. Submit the Application and Pay the Fees
- Review the application for accuracy and completeness.
- Pay the applicable fees using the available payment options.
5. Receive Confirmation and Track Application
- You will receive an SMS or email confirmation regarding the status of your application.
- Processing times typically takes 2-5 days, and the electronic card can be accessed through the system once approved.
Industry-Specific Requirements
Some industries require additional documentation to receive their establishment cards:
Private Companies & Free Zones
- Commercial licence
- Signature authorisation letter
- Power of attorney (if applicable)
- Memorandum of Association
Government Entities
- Official decree
- Board formation document
- Request letter
Small Business Support Programme Members
- Commercial licence
- Memorandum of Association
- Endorsement letter from the programme
Foreign Missions
- Accredited foreign missions must submit an official signed and sealed note from the country of residence and approval of authorised signatories in Arabic and English.
Other Business Sectors
- Airlines: Copy of trade licence
- Fishing Boats: Licence from the Ministry of Environment and Fisheries
- Hotels: Letter from the Department of Tourism specifying hotel rating
- Excursion Boats/Commercial Boats: Hunting licence.
- Stables: Approval from the engineering office of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed.
- Charities/Quran Memorisation Centres: Licence from the Community Development Authority.
- Livestock Farms: Letter from the municipality confirming ownership of livestock
Fees for Registering an Establishment Card in Dubai
When applying for an establishment card in the UAE, businesses must pay a set of fees that vary depending on their jurisdiction. Below is a breakdown of the standard costs associated with obtaining an establishment card:
- Application Fee: AED 50 (USD 13.61)
- Issuance Fee: AED 200 (USD 54) plus VAT (5%)
- Electronic Services Fee: AED 10 (USD 2.70)
- Knowledge Dirham Fee: AED 10 (USD 2.70)
- Innovation Dirham Fee: AED 10 (USD 2.70)
- Expedited Service Fee (if applicable): AED 100 (USD 27)
If the application is submitted through Amer centres, a fee of AED100 (USD 27) will be added.
How to Renew Your Establishment Card in Dubai Mainland
Renewing your establishment card is a mandatory process that must be completed annually to ensure compliance with UAE regulations. Businesses must renew their establishment cards before they expire to avoid fines and potential disruptions to their operations.
1. Access the GDRFA Portal
- Go to the GDRFA Smart Services Portal.
- Select the renewal option for establishment cards.
2. Log in or Create an Account
- Register using UAE Pass or log in with your existing credentials.
- Ensure you have access to your company’s trade licence and related documents.
3. Fill Out the Renewal Application
Enter company details such as:
- Trade licence number
- Company information
- Authorised signatories
Attach the required supporting documents, including:
- Valid trade licence
- Passport copies of authorised signatories
- Copy of the existing establishment card
4. Submit the Application & Pay the Fees
- Review the application for accuracy and completeness.
- Pay the applicable renewal fees through the GDRFA system or at an approved typing centre.
5. Receive Confirmation & Track Status
- Upon successful submission, you will receive an SMS or email confirmation.
- Processing Time: Typically 48 hours.
- Once approved, the renewed establishment card will be available in the system.
Renewal Fees
- Application Fee: AED 50 (USD 13.61)
- Renewal Fee: AED 100 (USD 27) plus VAT (5%)
- Electronic Services Fee: AED 10 (USD 2.70)
- Knowledge Dirham Fee: AED 10 (USD 2.70)
- Innovation Dirham Fee: AED 10 (USD 2.70)
- Expedited Service Fee (if applicable): AED 100 (USD 27)
Penalties for Late Renewal
- A fine is imposed for each month of delay beyond the expiry date.
- Continued failure to renew may lead to suspension of business activities, including the inability to process visas and engage with government services.
How Can I Get An Establishment Card in Abu Dhabi and Other Emirates?
For businesses in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al-Quwain, Fujairah, and Ras Al Khaimah, the process to register for an Establishment Card is managed through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) instead of Dubai’s GDRFA.
Follow these steps to apply for the Establishment Card and register for E-Channel (simultaneously):
1. Visit the ICP Smart Services Portal
Go to the ICP Smart Services System or visit an authorised typing centre.
2. Create an Account
Register your business by providing trade licence details, company information, and authorised signatories.
3. Fill Out the Establishment Card and E-Channel Application Form
- Enter details such as the trade licence number, company information, and authorised signatories.
- Select the option to apply for both the establishment card and E-Channel registration at the same time.
- Attach required supporting documents, including the company’s trade licence, Emirates ID of the authorised signatory and Power of attorney (if applicable).
4. Pay the Registration Fees
Complete payment for both the establishment card fees and the E-Channel registration fees.
5. Receive Confirmation
Once approved, you will receive an email or SMS confirmation with account access details.
6. Access and Manage Services
After registration, businesses can log in to the E-Channel system to manage visa applications, renew permits, and handle other immigration-related services.
For ADGM businesses, use the ACCESSADGM Portal to apply for both the establishment card and E-Channel registration in one streamlined process.
Establishment Card Fees: Abu Dhabi and Other Emirates
- Application Fee: AED 50 (USD 13.61)
- Issuance Fee: AED 200 (USD 54)
- Electronic Services Fee: AED 10 (USD 2.70)
These fees apply when applying through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) Smart Services system or authorized typing centres.
E-Channel Registration Fees: Abu Dhabi and Other Emirates
- Initial Registration Fee: AED 2,300 (USD 626)
- Refundable Security Deposit: AED 5,025 (USD 1368) refundable upon trade licence or establishment card cancellation
- Additional Fees: Includes e-services fees, Ministry of Interior fees, and electronic payment charges, bringing the total to approximately AED 7,325 (USD 1994).
This system enhances efficiency by allowing companies to manage visa applications and administrative processes online, reducing paperwork and processing times.
How to Renew Your Establishment Card in Abu Dhabi and Other Emirates
Renewing your establishment card is a mandatory requirement for businesses operating in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al-Quwain, Fujairah, and Ras Al Khaimah. This process must be completed annually to ensure compliance with UAE regulations. Businesses must renew their establishment cards before expiration to avoid fines and disruptions to their operations, including visa processing delays.
The renewal process in Abu Dhabi and other emirates is managed through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) Smart Services System or at an authorised typing centre. Follow these steps to renew your establishment card:
1. Log in to the ICP Smart Services Portal
- Visit the ICP Smart Services website.
- Use your business account credentials to log in.
2. Fill Out the Renewal Application
- Provide the company’s trade licence details and the establishment card number.
- Attach the required supporting documents, including a valid trade licence, passport copies of authorised signatories and a copy of the existing establishment card
3. Submit the Application and Pay the Fees
- Review the application for accuracy and completeness.
- Pay the applicable renewal fees through the portal or at an authorised typing centre.
4. Receive Confirmation and Track Status
- Upon successful submission, you will receive an SMS or email notification confirming your application status.
- The renewal process is typically completed within 48 hours, and the updated establishment card will be accessible through the system.
Renewal Fees
- Application Fee: AED 50 (USD 13.61)
- Renewal Fee: AED 100 (USD 27) plus VAT (5%)
- Electronic Services Fee: AED 10 (USD 2.70)
- Knowledge Dirham Fee: AED 10 (USD 2.70)
- Innovation Dirham Fee: AED 10 (USD 2.70)
- Expedited Service Fee (if applicable): AED 100 (USD 27)
Penalties for Late Renewal
Failure to renew your establishment card on time may result in penalties and business restrictions, including:
- A fine is imposed for each month of delay beyond the expiry date.
- Suspension of business activities, including the inability to process visas and engage with government services.
How to Amend or Modify Your Establishment Card
If your business undergoes changes such as a trade name update, legal structure modification, or ownership transfer, you must update the establishment card through the relevant authority (GDRFA or ICP).
1. Visit the GDRFA Portal or ICP Smart Services
- Log in to the relevant portal (GDRFA for Dubai, ICP for other emirates) using the same credentials you used to register for your establishment card.
- To launch the establishment card modification page for the GDRFA, click here.
- To launch the establishment card modification page for the ICP Smart Services, click here.
2. Request Modification
Submit a request for modification, attaching updated company documents such as:
- Amended trade licence.
- Updated Memorandum of Association (if applicable).
- Emirates ID of the authorised signatory.
3. Pay the Fees
Pay the applicable modification fees.
GDRFA Fees (Dubai):
- Modification Fee: AED 100 (USD 27)
- Knowledge Dirham Fee: AED 10 (USD 2.70)
- Innovation Dirham Fee: AED 10 (USD 2.70)
- Service Fee: AED 50 (USD 13.61)
- Total: AED 170 (USD 46) + 5% VAT
ICP Fees (Other Emirates):
- Application Fee: AED 100 (USD 27)
- Electronic Application Fee: AED 100 (USD 27)
- Total: AED 200 (USD 54)
4. Recieve Confirmation
You will receive confirmation via email or SMS once the modification is processed.
What Happens If You Lose Your Establishment Card?
1. Log in to the Relevant Portal
- For Dubai: Use the GDRFA Smart Services Portal.
- For Other Emirates: Access the ICP Smart Services Portal.
2. Request a Replacement
- Submit a request for a lost establishment card replacement.
- Attach the required documents, including a police report confirming the loss (if required), a copy of the trade licence, and the Emirates ID of the authorised signatory.
3. Pay the Replacement Fee
GDRFA Fees (Dubai):
- Replacement Fee: AED 100 (USD 27)
- Knowledge Dirham Fee: AED 10 (USD 2.70)
- Innovation Dirham Fee: AED 10 (USD 2.70)
- Service Fee: AED 50 (USD 13.61)
- Total: AED 170 (USD 46) + 5% VAT
ICP Fees (Other Emirates):
- Application Fee: AED 100 (USD 27)
- Electronic Application Fee: AED 100 (USD 27)
- Total: AED 200 (USD 54)
4. Receive Confirmation and Access the New Card
- Once the request is processed, you will receive a digital copy of your replacement card via email or SMS.
- If required, you can download it from the respective online portal.
Partner With Virtuzone
Navigating the business landscape in the UAE requires a thorough understanding of essential documentation, with the establishment card being paramount. This card not only legitimises your business but also facilitates critical operations such as employee visa sponsorship, access to government services, and seamless financial management.
However, the process of obtaining and maintaining an establishment card—from selecting the right jurisdiction to ensuring timely renewals—can be complex. This is where we can help.
At Virtuzone, we provide end-to-end business setup solutions, including:
- PRO assistance for government transactions
- Visa processing and establishment card registration
- Corporate banking setup
- Guidance on free zone vs. mainland company formation
With over a decade of experience in helping entrepreneurs establish and grow their businesses in the UAE, at Virtuzone we ensure that you remain compliant, efficient, and stress-free while focusing on what matters most—scaling your business.
Contact us for a free consultation today.
FAQs
How Can I Get An Establishment Card in the UAE?
To obtain an establishment card in the UAE, a company must first register with the UAE’s Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) or the relevant free zone authority. After registration, the company should apply for the establishment card through the respective authority’s online portal or customer service centres. The application process involves submitting the company’s trade licence, partners’ list, and lease agreement, among other documents. Approval usually takes a few days, after which the card is issued.
How Much is the Establishment Card Fee in Dubai?
The fee for an establishment card in Dubai varies depending on the jurisdiction under which the company operates. For companies in the mainland, the cost is approximately AED 650 (USD 177), while in free zones, the fee can range from AED 1,000 to AED 2,000 (USD 270 to 545), excluding potential processing charges. It’s advisable to check with the specific free zone authority or the Department of Economic Development in Dubai for the exact fees.
Is the Establishment Card and Immigration Card the Same?
Yes, the establishment card is also known as an immigration card in the UAE. This card is essential for companies as it enables them to sponsor employees’ visas. It serves as a record with the UAE’s immigration authorities, verifying the company’s legitimacy and its eligibility to employ foreign nationals. With this card, businesses can process their employees’ work permits or residency visas.
What is the Validity of the Establishment Card?
The validity of an establishment card in the UAE typically lasts for one year. It must be renewed annually through the authority that issued it, such as MOHRE or the relevant free zone authority. The renewal process involves submitting the current trade licence and proof of lease and paying the applicable renewal fees. Companies are encouraged to initiate the renewal process well in advance of the expiration date to avoid penalties and ensure continuous eligibility to sponsor employee visas.
What is the Difference between a Mainland and Free Zone Establishment Card?
A Mainland Establishment Card allows businesses to operate across the UAE and is issued by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) or the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP). In contrast, a Free Zone Establishment Card is issued by the respective Free Zone Authority and typically restricts operations to within the free zone, unless special permissions are obtained.
Can I Operate My Business Without an Establishment Card in the UAE?
No, an establishment card is mandatory for businesses in the UAE. Without it, companies cannot legally sponsor foreign employees, access essential government services, or engage in various administrative functions.
