Sharjah Free Zones Business Set Up

Simplified process for business setup in Sharjah Free Zone with Solutions FZCO.

Sharjah, the third largest emirate in the UAE, offers a strategic location, cost-effective setup options, and a supportive business environment. For small to medium-sized businesses, Sharjah Free Zones are a perfect location. These zones offer a number of benefits such as tax exemptions, affordable labor, and amazing workspace.

Solutions FZCO Business Setup in Sharjah Free Zones helps entrepreneurs set up companies in the area. We assist you with all the legal paperwork, visa processing, licensing, and other important requirements, so you take ownership of your business without any hassle.

Sharjah Free Zones are specialized economic zones located in the Emirate of Sharjah. They have become an attractive destination for entrepreneurs and businesses looking to expand in the Middle East because of various incentives.

Since the establishment of the first free zone in 1995, several zones have been set up in Sharjah, each catering to specific industries. These free zones have attracted foreign investment because of the numerous benefits offered to businesses and investors.

  • 100% foreign ownership 
  • Simplified company setup
  • 100% Exemption on imports and exports 
  • No currency restrictions 
  • Tax exemptions 
  • Ease of setup
  • Repatriation of capital 
  • World-class infrastructure 
  • 24-hour licensing service 
  • Cheaper lease rents 
  • Low-cost labor force 
  • Access to sea and airports

List of Free Zones in Sharjah for Business Setup

Sharjah has six free zones that offer various incentives to business owners looking to set up their companies in the UAE.

  • Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF Zone): Ideal for aviation, logistics, and light manufacturing industries.
  • Hamriyah Free Zone (HFZ): Suited for heavy industries, oil and gas, petrochemicals, and maritime activities.
  • Sharjah Media City (Shams): A hub for media, creative industries, and entertainment sectors.
  • Sharjah Publishing City (SPC): Dedicated to publishing, printing, and allied businesses.
  • The U.S.A. Regional Trade Center (USARTC) Free Zone: For small and medium business enterprises and the global industrial brands of the USA.
  • Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park (SRTI) Free Zone: Focusing on promoting research, technology, and innovation in various fields including healthcare, energy, and more.

Sharjah Free Zones offers licenses for various business and commercial activities. Here is a brief overview of the types of licenses offered by the Sharjah Free Zone Authority:

  • Trade License: This license is for trading activities such as import, export, and re-export of goods.
  • Industrial License: For companies dealing in manufacturing, assembly, and industrial operations.
  • Service License: For service-oriented businesses like consultancy, IT services, and marketing.
  • Commercial License: This license is for companies that offer commercial services such as logistics, storage, and distribution.
  • Media License: Sharjah Media City and Sharjah Publishing City are specialized in media and creative industries. This license is for those involved in advertising, publishing, media, and related activities.
  • Tech/ IT License: For tech companies including software development, IT services, electronics manufacturing, and related services.
  • Healthcare License: For healthcare-related businesses such as clinics, medical centers, and pharmaceutical companies.
  • Freelancer License: For individual professionals offering freelance services in various fields such as design, media, and consultancy.
  • Food and Beverage License: This license is for companies in the food and beverage industry, including cafes, restaurants, and food processing businesses.
  • Real Estate License: For companies involved in real estate development, brokerage, and more.
  • Consultancy License: This license is for businesses offering consultancy services in different fields like legal, management, finance, and more.
  • Event Management License: For event management companies that organize events, exhibitions, concerts, and similar activities.
  • Education License: This license is for businesses offering educational and training services.
  • Banking and Financial Services License: As the name suggests, this license is for banking and financial institutions, including offshore banking.

Business Activities Allowed in Free Zones of Sharjah

Sharjah has various free zones and each zone offers support to various business activities. Here are some types of business activities allowed within the Sharjah Free Zones:

  • Trading Activities
  • Media and Publishing
  • Manufacturing and Industrial
  • IT and Software Development
  • Education and Training
  • Tourism and Hospitality
  • Financial Services
  • E-commerce and Online Retail
  • Healthcare and Medical Services
  • Consulting and Professional Services
  • Restaurants and Cafes
  • General Trading

How to Setup a Business in Sharjah Free Zone [Steps]

Choose a Free Zone in Sharjah

Understand your business needs and choose the best Sharjah Free Zone for your sector.

Set up a Business Plan

Create a comprehensive business setup plan, including goals, strategy, financials, and more

Pick a Name

Select a name for your company and reserve it with your selected free zone. 

Infrastructure

Select the necessary workspace for your company’s activities such as an office or a warehouse. 

Bank Account Opening

Open a corporate bank account and deposit the minimum required capital according to your free zone. 

Workforce Estimates

Establish the number of visas you will need for the workforce. 

Licensing and Registration

Complete your business licensing and registration process with the authorities. 

Documentation

Sign the final documents in front of the officials from the selected free zone. 

Start Your Operations

Once all formalities are completed, you can commence your business activities.

Setting up a company in Sharjah Free Zones might be confusing for first-time owners because of the lengthy requirements and application procedures. At Solutions FZCO, we help you with all the necessary documentation to offer a smooth and successful process of acquiring a Sharjah Free Zone license for your business and setting up the company.

Leverage our local contacts with the authorities to speed up your business registration process. Our experts facilitate the process of obtaining the required licenses and permits, so you can start your business within days.

Partner with Solutions FZCO and take the first step towards a successful business venture in Sharjah Free Zones.

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FAQs

Sharjah Media City (SHAMS) is the most budget-friendly free zone in the UAE, starting at as low as AED 5,750 for the free zone license in the UAE.

Setting up a company in Sharjah free zone may take 8-14 business days depending on the type of license you are applying for.

Yes, Sharjah Free Zones in the UAE offer 100% foreign ownership, without needing a local sponsor. There are other financial benefits as well such as tax exemptions.