The UAE is one of the most dynamic business hubs in the world, attracting entrepreneurs, investors, and professionals from across the globe. But many people wonder: “Can I change the company in UAE?” The answer depends on whether you are an employee wanting to switch jobs or a business owner planning to change your existing company setup.
This guide explains both scenarios in detail.
Changing Your Employer in UAE as an Employee
If you are working in the UAE and wish to change your company, here’s what you need to know:
1. Labour Contract and Notice Period
- Employees must comply with their labour contract terms.
- A notice period (usually 30–90 days) is required before leaving the current employer.
2. No Objection Certificate (NOC)
- Earlier, employees needed an NOC to switch jobs.
- Now, with updated UAE labour laws, employees can change companies after completing their contract or serving the notice period.
3. Employment Visa Transfer
- Your new employer will apply for a new work permit and visa transfer.
- The old employer must cancel your existing visa and labour card.
4. End-of-Service Benefits
- When leaving your company, you are entitled to:
- Gratuity (if you completed at least one year of service)
- Any pending salary or allowances
- Annual leave encashment (if unused)
Conclusion for Employees: Yes, you can change your company in the UAE, provided you follow labour laws, serve notice, and complete visa transfer procedures.
Changing Your Business Company in UAE as an Owner
If you are a business owner or investor, you may want to change your existing company structure, trade license, or business location. Here are the common ways:
1. Change of Trade Name or Activities
- You can update your trade name or add/remove business activities by applying through the Department of Economic Development (DED) or relevant free zone authority.
2. Changing Company Structure
- Businesses can convert from a sole proprietorship to LLC or from a branch office to a mainland/free zone company, depending on requirements.
3. Changing Office Location
- If you wish to move your office to another emirate or free zone, you must cancel the existing license and apply for a new one in the chosen jurisdiction.
4. Transferring Shares or Ownership
- Ownership changes are possible through share transfer agreements registered with the licensing authority.
Conclusion for Business Owners: Yes, you can change your company setup in the UAE, but the process depends on your jurisdiction (mainland or free zone) and the type of changes you need.
Things to Keep in Mind When Changing Companies in UAE
- Always comply with UAE labour laws (for employees) or licensing authority rules (for business owners).
- Seek professional consultancy to avoid mistakes during visa transfer or license amendments.
- Pay any outstanding fines or dues before applying for changes.
- Ensure contracts and legal paperwork are properly updated.
Final Thoughts
So, can you change the company in UAE?
- If you are an employee, you can change your job legally by serving notice and transferring your visa.
- If you are a business owner, you can change your company’s name, structure, activities, or jurisdiction by applying to the relevant authority.
The UAE offers flexibility and clear procedures for both employees and entrepreneurs, making it one of the most business-friendly countries in the world.
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