Free zones in Sharjah have become highly favored business setup destinations in recent years. As an emirate known for affordable housing and low business startup costs, Sharjah is an ideal location for anyone looking to live and establish a business in the UAE. Alongside affordability, Sharjah provides excellent connectivity for entrepreneurs. With a long coastline, Sharjah is a vital hub for trade and transportation. The presence of Sharjah International Airport, along with proximity to Dubai International Airport, enhances the emirate’s accessibility to regional and international markets. Key free zones in Sharjah, such as Hamriyah Free Zone Authority and SAIF Zone, are strategically located near ports and airports to capitalize on these connectivity benefits.

Sharjah Free Zone Benefits

Starting a business in a Sharjah free zone comes with several benefits:

• Cost-effective startup costs
• Access to a skilled and diverse workforce
• Proximity to ports and airports
• Business-supportive policies
• 100% foreign ownership
• Tax benefits*
• Affordable living costs in Sharjah

Sharjah Free Zone Business Setup

If you plan to set up a business in Sharjah, you have a wide selection of free zones to choose from:

• SPC Free Zone focuses on the publishing industry.
• Shams Free Zone is dedicated to the media industry.
• SRTIP Free Zone emphasizes R&D.
• SHCC Free Zone primarily serves the healthcare sector.
• SAIF Zone and HFZA Free Zone are industrial zones with large spaces dedicated to a variety of industries.

Although many of Sharjah’s free zones are industry-specific, they generally allow other business activities besides those for which they are primarily intended.

Steps to Obtain a Sharjah Trade License Through a Free Zone

Here is the process to register a Sharjah free zone company:

1. Trade Name Reservation

Reserve a trade name for your free zone business, ensuring it meets the naming guidelines set by the free zone authorities.

2. Submission of the Application Form

Complete and sign the application form, then submit it along with the required documents.

For Individual Shareholders:

• Passport copy of shareholder(s) and manager(s)
• Passport-sized photo of shareholder(s) and manager(s)
• Latest UAE entry stamp or visit visa copy
• Residence visa copy and Emirates ID of shareholder(s) and manager(s) (for UAE residents)
• Address proof of shareholder(s) and manager(s)

For Corporate Shareholders:

• Articles of Association (AOA)
• Memorandum of Association (MOA)
• Business license (if already established)
• Board Resolution
• Certificate of Incorporation

3. Trade License Issuance

Once approved, your Sharjah free zone license will be issued by the authorities.