How to Set up a Business in Sharjah , UAE: A Step-by-Step Guide
Every year, thousands of entrepreneurs launch their businesses in the UAE. Being recognised as globally the largest business hub, it has a multi-diversified economy and a well-connected network that ensures ease of doing business for all. Among all emirates and jurisdictions, Sharjah boasts one of the most lucrative free zones for entrepreneurs to establish a robust business presence.
As a cultural hub of the UAE, business setup in Sharjah free zone enjoy technologically advanced and well-equipped infrastructure. In recent years, it has established itself as a strategic business destination backed by investor-friendly policies, tax incentives, and robust infrastructure. The Sharjah free zones offer an extensive pool of opportunities for entrepreneurs and investors.
Here’s the step-by-step guide to walk you through the process of business setup in Sharjah.
- Selecting the Right Free Zone
Sharjah boasts several free zones to meet different business requirements. However, if you are planning for a technology-based or innovative business setup in Sharjah, the SRTIP free zone could be the right choice for you. It perfectly fits the nature of your business, target market and the specific facilities required to take your business to new heights.
- Determine Your Business Activity
Depending on your nature of business, you need to decide on a specific business activity. This will further help you decide which business license in the Sharjah free zone would you required to establish legally.
The most common business license in Sharjah free zone are:
Trading License, specifically for businesses involved in import/export or distribution of goods.
Service License, for companies offering professional services, including business consultancy, IT, marketing and others.
Industrial License, for companies engaged in manufacturing, production and other industrial activities.
Freelance Permit, for independent professionals, freelancers and self-employed individuals.
- Select a Company Structure
For a seamless business setup in the Sharjah free zone, it offers multiple business structures for entrepreneurs’ ease of doing business:
- Reserve a Company Name
Choosing and reserving an appropriate company name is an integral step for business setup in Sharjah. You have to ensure that your business name should comply with the business naming regulations, prescribed by the UAE, avoiding any religious, offensive or politically influenced terms. Once you have finalised the name, you can register it legally through Sharjah’s free zone authority.
- Submit Application and Documents
For business setup in the Sharjah free zone, the following documents are required:
Application form
Copies of the shareholders’ passports;
Passport-sized photos of the shareholders;
Proof of residence;
Memorandum of Association (MoA)
The list of documentation can vary on the basis of activity and obtaining a business license in the Sharjah-free zone.
- Obtain Your License and Visa
Once your application is approved by the free zone authority, you will receive your business license and finally start operating in the region. Typically, the process can take a few days to weeks, depending on the complexity of your business setup. Once you have received your business license, apply for UAE residency visa.
- Open a Corporate Bank Account
Once your business setup in Sharjah free zone registered, you need to apply for opening a corporate bank account. SRTIP Accelerator helps in choosing a bank that aligns with your business needs and financial goals. We can help you navigate through certain criteria like multi-currency accounts, online banking, easy international transfers, etc.
Conclusion
Entrepreneurs are ready to launch their business when they receive their business license, office space agreement, visa and bank account. They can take advantage of starting highly efficient business operations in the Sharjah-free zone and grow their business.
We, at SRTIP Accelerator, are recognised for helping businesses leverage the available resources to set the foundation for their business in the UAE’s dynamic market. Connect with our expert team to aim for massive business success.
For expert support, contact us today at +971 50 795 6303 or email enquiry@srtipacc.ae to get started.
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