Business Setup in Sharjah is rising fast. In 2024, over 61,500 new business licenses were issued across the UAE , according to the Sharjah Economic Development Department.
Sharjah ranked third, showing strong investor trust Why are more people choosing Sharjah? Is it the cost, the ease, or the location? This guide gives you 7 clear reasons why starting your company here could be your smartest move.
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Why Choose Sharjah for Your Business Setup?
Considering your next step in the UAE? Business Setup in Sharjah truly offers smart solutions. Thus, it combines low costs, full ownership, and fast licensing. It is perfect, particularly for setting up a business in the Sharjah Free Zone. Here are the key reasons why Sharjah is an excellent location for your business
1. Serious Cost Savings
- It’s really inexpensive to start and operate a business here.
- For instance, office rents are up to 40% cheaper than in Dubai.
- Likewise, employee housing costs much less.
- This truly makes hiring easier.
- Budget-friendly licenses also stand out.
- Indeed, free zone packages can start from AED 5,500.
- This avoids hidden fees, ensuring clear pricing.
| Expense | Sharjah | Dubai |
| Office Rent (per sq ft/year) | AED 400–600 | AED 900–1,400 |
| Business License (Basic) | AED 5,500–18,000 | AED 20,000–35,000 |
| Warehouse Space | 30% cheaper | Premium pricing |
| Residential Rent (2-bed) | AED 35,000–50,000 | AED 70,000–100,000 |
These are estimates. Specific costs depend on your choices.
2. Free Zone Perks That Actually Help You
- Sharjah’s free zones solve real business headaches.
- First, keep 100% profits. This entails no personal or corporate income tax.
- Second, foreigners get total ownership. Therefore, no local sponsor is needed.
- Third, enjoy easy customs. Thus, import/export without duties truly speeds things up.
- Full capital repatriation is also allowed.
- This provides welcome financial flexibility.
Top Free Zones & Their Strengths
| Zone | Key Benefits | Ideal for |
| SAIF Zone | Airport access, fast customs, trade services | Traders, logistics firms |
| Hamriyah | Deep-water port, industrial land | Traders, manufacturers |
| Shams / SPC | Media, publishing, and cultural firms | Creatives, SMEs |
| SRTIP | R&D focused tech incubator, grants | Tech startups, researchers |
3. Location Wins You Can’t Ignore
- Sharjah sits at a global trade crossroads.
- It is the only emirate in the UAE with direct access to seaports on both the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman.
- The planned Etihad Rail network will link inland regions to these key ports, boosting Sharjah’s internal logistics and transport links.
- Consequently, reaching regional and international markets is simple.
- Port access is also direct. For example, ship goods globally from Hamriyah Port.
- It’s one of the Gulf’s deepest harbors. Air links are strong too.
- Sharjah Airport moves millions of tons of cargo yearly.
- Furthermore, drive to Dubai in just 25 minutes. This makes reaching clients easy.
4. Paperwork That Doesn’t Make You Suffer
- Sharjah Economic Development Department (SEDD) has simplified the business setup process by introducing services like license reservation and digital fingerprinting for all involved parties during electronic licensing.
- The process is truly simpler here. For example, fast licensing is common.
- You can get trading permits in just 72 hours at the SAIF Zone.
- One-stop shops also simplify things. Free zone employees take care of your paperwork, permits, and visas.
- Renewals are easy as well. Indeed, update licenses via apps, avoiding office queues. This streamlines all approvals.
5. Infrastructure That Works Hard For You
- Sharjah offers advanced infrastructure.
- Move into furnished offices with high-speed internet quickly.
- These are ready on day one. Industrial parks provide essential utilities.
- Factories come with power substations and waste treatment built in.
- Tech facilities are also available. For example, SRTIP offers AI testing labs and 3D printing farms.
- Flexible office options exist, too. Choose physical space or a virtual setup to suit your needs.
6. Real Community, Real Support
- Businesses find true community here.
- Join networking hubs. Events like the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival connect you with investors.
- Family living is also great. The American School of Sharjah is one of the best schools in a safe neighborhood.
- A vibrant cultural vibe adds charm. Thus, working near galleries and theaters truly sparks creativity.
- A skilled multicultural workforce is also accessible. You can easily recruit diverse talent.
7. Growth Sectors Ready for You
- Sharjah backs key industries. For example, it offers cash and perks.
- Manufacturing firms get subsidized factory space in Hamriyah.
- Media companies enjoy soundstage discounts at Shams.
- Tech startups can receive funding. Indeed, SRTIP funds 50% of patent costs for startups.
- This targeted support helps specific sectors truly grow.
Take care of these tips
These tips help make your setup smooth.
- First, pick your zone wisely. For instance, choose SAIF for logistics.
- Tech firms should consider SRTIP. Media businesses fit Shams best. Second, use PRO services.
- Let experts handle visas. It is truly worth the fee.
- Third, hire local grads. Utilize the engineering and design skills of the University of Sharjah.
- Finally, visit first. Tour free zones; they arrange pickups and site inspections.
Sharjah vs. Dubai vs. Abu Dhabi: Business Setup Comparison
| Feature | Sharjah | Dubai | Abu Dhabi |
| Setup Cost | Low | High | Medium |
| Foreign Ownership | 100% in mainland and free zones (depending on activities) | 100% on the mainland and in free zones (depending on activities) | 100% in free zones and mainland (based on activity) |
| Tax Rules | 0% in free zones, 9% corporate tax on mainland profits | 0% in free zones, 9% corporate tax on mainland profits | 0% in free zones, 9% corporate tax on mainland profits |
| License Variety | Wide and flexible, supports niche sectors | Broad, focused on retail, tourism, and finance | Designed for major sectors such as oil and energy |
| Office & Warehouse Rent | Affordable | Expensive | Moderate |
| Registration Time | 1–5 working days | 3–7 working days | 5–10 working days |
| Workforce Access | Skilled and cost-effective | Skilled but higher cost | Skilled and competitive |
| Port Access | Direct to Sharjah Port | Jebel Ali Port | Khalifa Port |
| Business Support | Strong government backing and startup help | Excellent, well-established | Improving steadily |
| Industry Strength | Manufacturing, logistics, education, media | Tech, finance, tourism, retail | Oil, gas, energy, heavy industries |
Your Smartest Move Awaits
Sharjah isn’t just cheaper, it’s truly smarter. You gain infrastructure that works hard for you. Regulations that make your company stand apart. Furthermore, a community that wants you to grow is present. While Dubai shouts, Sharjah genuinely delivers. Set up here, and you will gain more than savings; you will gain true momentum.
What licenses are available for Business Setup in Sharjah?
Getting your license? First, know this: Your business type decides everything. Thankfully, Sharjah now offers faster, cheaper options than ever. Here’s how to pick perfectly.
How to Choose the Right License?
- Identify your core business activity first.
- Then decide if the mainland or free zone fits your ownership and market needs.
- Consider office space requirements; free zones allow flexible setups.
- Check license fees and approval timelines to plan your start.
Mainland Licenses
- Best for shops, restaurants, or UAE-wide trade
Commercial License
- Sell products locally. Think: Retail stores, import/export.
- Cost: AED 10,000–15,000 | Time: 3–5 days
Professional License
- Offer expertise like consulting or design.
- Cost: AED 7,000–12,000 | Time: 48 hours.
Industrial License
- Make or process goods. Requires factory space..
- Cost: AED 12,000–18,000 | Time: 1 week.
Why choose the mainland?
- Operate anywhere in the UAE.
- Bid on government contracts.
- Sponsor unlimited visas.
Free Zone Licenses
- Perfect for exporters, startups, and digital work
Trading License
- Import/export without local duties.
- Cost: AED 5,750–11,500 | Time: 24–72 hrs
E-commerce License
- Sell products online. Includes visas.
- Cost: AED 5,750+ | Time: 48 hrs
Media License
- For content creators (SHAMS special).
- Cos: AED 6,900 | Time: 24 hrs
Top zones
- SAIF Zone: Near airport → 24-hour logistics licenses
- SHAMS: Media hub → Freelance packages
- Hamriyah: Port access → Cheap warehouses
Before Choosing a License
- Always align your intended activity with the sort of license you have.
- Free zone licenses are cheaper, but limit where you can sell.
- For physical stores, go with a commercial license on the mainland.
- Use SHAMS for media startups. Use SAIF for export businesses.
Which Authority Issues the License?
- Mainland License: Issued by the Sharjah Economic Development Department (SEDD).
- Free Zone License: Issued by the zone authority (e.g., SHAMS, HFZA, SAIF).
What Documents Do You Need?
- A passport copy of the owner/shareholders.
- Proposed trade name.
- Description of business activity.
- Lease agreement (if not using free zone flexi-desk).
- Application form via SEDD or free zone portal.
Cost Comparison Table (2025)
| License Type | Best For | Cost (AED) | Time |
| Mainland Commercial | Local shops | 10,000–15,000 | 3–5 days |
| Free Zone E-commerce | Online stores | 5,750–11,500 | 24–72 hrs |
| SHAMS Freelance | Solo creators | 5,750 | 24 hrs |
| Tourism License | Travel agencies | 10,000–20,000 | 5–7 days |
Choosing the right license is the first big step in your business setup in Sharjah. With clear options for commercial, professional, industrial, and free zone businesses, Sharjah offers flexibility for all. Moreover, understanding these licenses ensures faster approvals and fewer surprises.
Business Link UAE can guide you in selecting the best license, handling paperwork, and completing your setup without delays. Get expert advice and start your Sharjah business journey confidently today.
What Are the 7 Steps Involved in Business Setup in Sharjah?
Setting up in Sharjah? Smart choice. Here’s a no-fluff, step-by-step guide to start legally and fast—without headaches.
1. Pick Your Spot: Mainland or Free Zone?
- Mainland: Best for local trade. Operate anywhere in the UAE. Ideal for shops, restaurants, or construction.
- Free Zone: Perfect for exports/online biz. Offers 100% ownership, tax-free profits, and cheaper offices.
If exporting, choose the SAIF Zone (near the airport) or Hamriyah (port access).
2. Lock Down Your Business Basics
- Activity: Match it to your Business license type (commercial, professional, or industrial).
- Name: Make it unique—no religious or offensive words. Reserve it online via SEDD’s portal.
- Legal Structure: LLCs suit most small businesses. Sole props work for freelancers.
License Types & Costs in Sharjah (2025)
| License Type | Best For | Cost (AED) | Time |
| Commercial | Trading, retail | 10,000–15,000 | 3–5 days |
| Professional | Consultants, IT services | 7,000–12,000 | 48 hours |
| Industrial | Factories, manufacturing | 12,000–18,000 | 1 week |
| Free Zone | Exporters, startups | 5,750–11,500 | 24–72 hrs |
3. Paperwork Made Simple
- 1. Initial Approval: Submit basic docs (passport copies, activity details) to SEDD or your free zone.
- 2. Lease Office Space: Even a flexi-desk works. Attest contract via Ejari.
- 3. Final License: Pay fees. Get approval via SMS. Download the license instantly.
Use platforms like SEDD’s portal—approval in <5 minutes.
4. Open Your Bank Account
- Documents Needed: License, MOA, shareholder passports.
- Top Picks: ADCB or Mashreq for startups. Emirates NBD for trade biz.
- Warning: Avoid delays—get your office lease attested before applying.
5. Visa Setup for You & Your Team
- Investor Visa: Apply via SEDD (mainland) or free zone portal. Includes medical test.
- Employee Visas: 3–5 working days. Budget AED 3,000–5,000 per visa.
Free zones like SHAMS offer 3 visas in basic packages.
6. Launch Operations
- Hire Locally: Tap University of Sharjah grads—no recruitment fees.
- Compliance: Renew licenses yearly. File VAT returns quarterly.
- Expand: Open branches in other emirates (mainland only).
7. Dodge These 4 Costly Mistakes
- Wrong Activity Code: Double-check SEDD’s list. Consulting ≠ trading.
- Skipping MOA: LLCs need it. Get it notarized—costs AED 500.
- Underestimating Visas: Mainland offices need 1 visa per 12 sqm.
- Ignoring Taxes: Free zones pay 0% corporate tax, but the mainland pays 9% over AED 375k profit.
Tips for a Smooth Business Setup in Sharjah
- Start Small: Use SHAMS’ freelance license (AED 5,750). Upgrade later.
- Track Deadlines: License renewals take 2 days. Miss them? Fines start at AED 250/day.
- Need Speed? SAIF Zone processes logistics licenses in 24 hours.
- Hire Help: PRO services handle visas for ~AED 2,000. Worth every dirham.
Sharjah cuts the red tape. One client got her consulting firm running in 72 hours. Today? She employs 14 people. Your turn.
In 2025, your business setup in the Sharjah free zone or mainland isn’t just paperwork—it’s momentum.
Free Zone Contacts
- SAIF Zone: +971 6 557 0000
- SHAMS: [shams.ae](https://www.shams.ae)
- Hamriyah: [hfza.ae](https://www.hfza.ae)
How Much Does Business Setup Cost in Sharjah?
- Your business activity, license type, and office location all affect the overall cost..
- Mainland companies generally cost more due to stricter office and visa rules.
- Packages with flexible office possibilities are more reasonably priced in free zones.
- Depending on the size of the business, visa and sponsorship fees increase the establishment costs..
- You also need to budget for government fees, approvals, and document processing.
Main Cost Components for Business Setup in Sharjah
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Trade License Fees
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- Your business activity (commercial, professional, or industrial) determines the licensing charge.
- Commercial permits on the mainland typically cost between AED 10,000 and AED 15,000 per year.
- Professional licenses, which start at about AED 7,000, are typically less expensive.
- Industrial licenses cost more due to extra approvals and inspections, around AED 12,000 to AED 18,000.
- Free zone licenses range from AED 5,500 to AED 11,500, often bundled with office and visa packages.
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Office Rent and Ejari
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- Mainland businesses must rent physical office space.
- Office rent varies by location and size, starting at AED 15,000 annually for small spaces.
- Tenancy contract attestation, or Ejari registration, costs about AED 1,000..
- Free zones offer flexi desks, virtual offices, or warehouses with flexible pricing, often starting at AED 7,000 yearly.
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Visa and Immigration Fees
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- Business setup costs increase with visa requirements.
- One visa is needed for every 12 square meters of office space owned by mainland businesses.
- Each visa, which includes Emirates ID and medical exams, costs between AED 3,000 and AED 7,000.
- Free zones offer visa packages that make starting a business easier and less expensive.
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Additional Government and Service Fees
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- Name reservation and initial approval fees often range from AED 1,000 to AED 2,000.
- Document attestation, notarization, and government processing may add AED 1,000 to AED 3,000.
- Depending on the services, PRO services to handle paperwork might cost anywhere from AED 2,000 to AED 4,000.
Business Setup in Sharjah Free Zone Costs
- Free zones provide all-in-one packages including a license, office, and visa.
- Costs typically start at AED 5,500 for a basic license and flexi desk.
- Premium offices or warehouses increase the price.
- Visas are included but limited by the package type.
- Setup time is faster, usually within 2 to 5 working days.
Summary of Typical Business Setup Costs in Sharjah (2025)
| Cost Component | Mainland (AED) | Free Zone (AED) | Notes |
| Trade License Fee | 10,000 – 25,000 | 5,750 – 15,000 | Varies by business type and specific authority. |
| Office Space/Flexi-Desk | 15,000 – 50,000 | 4,000 – 20,000 | Mainland needs physical space; Free zones offer cheaper desks. |
| Visa (per person) | 3,000 – 7,000 | 3,000 – 7,000 | Includes investor and employee visas, plus medical. |
| Trade Name & Initial Approval | 1,000 – 2,000 | 1,000 – 2,000 | Essential first steps for all setups. |
| Local Service Agent Fee (if applicable) | 10,000 – 25,000 (annual) | Not applicable | Only for some mainland activities now. |
| Other Approvals (approx.) | 1,000 – 3,000 | 500 – 2,000 | Depending on your business activity type. |
| Bank Account Setup | 1,000 – 5,000 | 1,000 – 5,000 | Some banks require a minimum balance. |
| PRO Services (annual) | 2,000 – 5,000 | 2,000 – 4,000 | For processing documents and ongoing support. |
| Total Estimated First Year | 33,000 – 117,000 | 17,250 – 58,000 | These are rough figures; get exact quotes. |
5 Factors Affecting Your Setup Cost
- Business Activity: Manufacturing needs more licenses and approvals.
- Company Size: More employees increase visa and office costs.
- Location: Central Sharjah offices cost more than the outskirts.
- License Type: Professional licenses are cheaper than commercial ones.
- Package Choices: While mainland configurations are more inflexible, free zones provide variable bundles.
How to Control Sharjah Business Startup Expenses?
- Compare free zone packages carefully before choosing.
- Use flexi desks or virtual offices if you want to reduce rent.
- Plan your visa needs accurately to avoid paying for unused visas.
- Get help from business setup consultants to avoid costly mistakes.
- Renew licenses and visas on time to avoid fines and extra fees.
Business setup in Sharjah is known for being affordable and flexible. You can choose the ideal bundle for your company and prevent additional expenses with careful planning. Whether you go for the mainland or business setup in the Sharjah free zone, knowing these details helps you make smart choices and start with confidence.
How does Business Link support setting up a business in Sharjah?
- Business Link makes Business Setup in Sharjah faster and simpler.
- They handle paperwork, guide you on the right license, and manage visa applications.
- Their team stays updated with Sharjah laws, so you avoid mistakes and delays.
- If you’re unsure where to start, they offer step-by-step support tailored to your case.
Summary
Now you know the 7 Reasons Business Setup in Sharjah is Your Smartest Move. With low costs, easy steps, and real support, starting here makes sense. Business Link UAE walks with you from idea to launch. Want a smooth start without stress? Business Setup in Sharjah could be the step that changes everything.
Take the next step today. Contact Business Link UAE. Your setup starts now.
FAQ’s
How long does it take to complete a Business Setup in Sharjah?
If your documents are ready, the whole process usually takes 3 to 7 working days.
- Free zones often process faster, sometimes within 2 days.
- Mainland setups may take longer due to approvals from local authorities.
Are there any taxes in Sharjah for businesses?
Corporate tax is 9% on profits over AED 375,000 for mainland companies. Free zones generally enjoy 0% corporate tax. This is a big benefit.
Can I get visas for employees after the Business Setup in Sharjah?
Yes, after getting your trade license, you can apply for employee visas.
- Most setups allow 1 to 6 visas to start with, depending on your business size.
- You’ll need labor approval, Emirates ID, medical tests, and insurance for each employee.
Does setting up a business in Sharjah need a local partner?
Not always.
- For most free zone licenses, you can own 100% of your company.
- In the mainland, many activities now also allow full foreign ownership.
- However, some still require a UAE national sponsor or service agent.
Can I get a residency visa after completing a Business Setup in Sharjah?
Yes, after completing your Business Setup in Sharjah, you can certainly apply for a residency visa.
- This includes company owners, investors, and workers.
- The number of visas you can apply for usually depends on your chosen business activity, your company’s legal structure, and the office space you lease.
- Free zone companies often have clear visa quotas linked to their packages.
- Obtaining a residency visa allows you to live and work legally in the UAE.
- It also covers your family, allowing them to live with you.
