At Dubiz, we understand the complexities & challenges of establishing a business in UAE’s evolving landscape. Our suite of expert business setup services is specially designed to support your venture at every stage, from inception to expansion.
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Sharjah, the third most populous Emirate in the UAE, is not only a great destination for cost-effective living but also for business formation. Especially on mainland Sharjah, entrepreneurs can run successful ventures given the city’s strategic location, top-notch infrastructure, investor friendly policies, and ease of business setup.
Business setup in Sharjah mainland is overseen by the Sharjah Economic Development Department (SEDD). With thousands of business activities permitted by the SEDD, there is a lot that entrepreneurs can explore.
Dubiz Business Setup can provide you with the right guidance you need for your company set up on Sharjah mainland. From the initial license application to business bank account setup and ongoing compliance support, we offer the best services customized to your needs and goals.
Mainland refers to the jurisdiction in Sharjah, outside freezones, where you can establish a business and conduct operations. This area is regulated by the Sharjah Economic Development Department (SEDD), which is responsible for registering and licensing companies on mainland.
Mainland companies in Sharjah enjoy several unique features, including:
100% ownership in most sectors
As per updated UAE laws, most business activities in Sharjah mainland now allow 100% foreign ownership, similar to free zones.
Broader market access
A Sharjah mainland company can operate anywhere in the UAE, including free zones, and also conduct business internationally.
Flexible visa application
There is no limit on the number of visas you can apply for, provided you have sufficient office space as per regulatory requirements.
No currency restrictions
Sharjah imposes no restrictions on currency movement, which facilitates smooth financial transactions, including profit repatriation.
Financial benefits
Mainland companies in Sharjah benefit from corporate tax exemptions (where applicable) and zero personal income tax, similar to free zones.
Government contracts
Sharjah mainland company set up provides you the opportunity to bid for lucrative government contracts and tenders.
Low-cost business setup
Compared to other Emirates, the Sharjah mainland license cost and running a business here is more affordable and accessible.
Strong connectivity
Sharjah connects to major hubs like Dubai and the northern Emirates, and is well linked to global markets via Sharjah International Airport and key seaports.
Whether you're planning to start a small startup or a large company setup in Sharjah, mainland offers the perfect environment for business growth and success. You just need to obtain the right type of mainland business license, which serves as your official legal permit to conduct activities in the region.
Here are the main types of business licenses available in Sharjah mainland:
If you plan to get involved in trading activities, such as buying and selling goods or services, then your business will need a commercial license in Sharjah.
For offering service-based activities where expertise, qualifications, and special knowledge are required, businesses will need a professional license in Sharjah.
Manufacturing, assembling, processing or other such industrial operations require businesses to hold an industrial license in Sharjah.
Dubiz Business Setup is ready to offer you step-by-step guidance for your Sharjah mainland company formation, so you don’t have to deal with legal complexities and challenges.
Here are the general steps involved in Sharjah mainland business setup:
Decide what business activities you want to carry out. It can be trading, retail, beauty services, cleaning services, healthcare, business consultancy, or any other permitted activity.
For some strategic sectors, foreign investors are required to have a local sponsor who holds 51% of the stake in the business. However, you should know that 100% foreign ownership is now possible for many business activities under the new rules.
You can start a Limited Liability Company (LLC), partnership firm, sole proprietorship, or open a branch of a foreign, GCC or UAE company. You can also form a private or public shareholding company.
You will need to shortlist three business name options for your business setup in Sharjah mainland. These must be lawful, relevant, and suitable. The most appropriate name will be registered with the authority.
Get the preliminary permission from Sharjah Economic Development Department (SEDD) to establish your business in Sharjah mainland.
There are various types of office spaces available in Sharjah that offer stunning facilities and strategic locations. You can choose what suits your business size, budget, and operational needs.
Get your essential documents, such as the Memorandum of Association (MoA) and lease agreement, signed, registered and notarized by the public notary. Additionally, you must gather the documents like your passport copy, business plan and other license specific paperwork.
Reach out to the SEDD for your business license and submit application. It is better to cross check the filled in details to avoids interruption in process. Fees may vary based on your license requirements.
Apply for the company establishment card with the immigration authority. It validates your business as complaint legal entity.
Get necessary visa for yourself. Additionally, if you plan to hire foreign staff you will need to get work permit and visas for them as well.
Request for a corporate bank account to manage the finances and track your business transactions.
You may need to apply for some additional permits such as with municipality, healthcare authority, or else, based on your business activity.
At Dubiz, we will get your business established quickly and affordably, without compromising on any of your business needs.
The cost of business license on Sharjah mainland can be between AED 15,000 and AED 30,000.
Please note that the final cost of business setup in Sharjah mainland depends on many factors like your chosen business activity, visa requirements, office space needs, etc.
To get your business license on Sharjah mainland, you will need to submit the following documents to the SEDD:
Please note that documentation can vary based on specific business nature. You can get detailed assistance directly from our experts.
Here are the options:
Limited Liability Company (LLC):
The most chosen structure is an LLC, where there can be a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 50 shareholders, each with liability limited to the stake they hold in the company.
Civil company:
Professionals from the same field can join hands and establish a civil company, where they offer services under a single license.
Branch:
An existing GCC, UAE, or foreign company can extend its branch to Sharjah. The branch operates under the parent company’s brand.
Partnership firm:
Two or more individuals can start a business by entering into a partnership agreement, in which they share control, profits, and losses.
Sole proprietorship:
A single owner starts a business with full control. However, they may need to partner with a local service agent.
Private/Public share company:
This is a joint stock company where ownership is divided into shares, which are either privately held or made available to the public.
Each business structure has its own legal requirements, foreign ownership eligibility, and applicable taxation. It’s best to seek advice from a business setup consultant in Sharjah.
Are you looking to enter Sharjah’s thriving markets? With the right guidance and efficient business setup, you will be fully prepared to shine.
We at Dubiz Business Setup can offer you the best professional assistance with business setup in Sharjah mainland, including your trade license application, visa application, securing approvals, preparing documents, business bank account setup, or more.
With our expert guidance and attentive service, you can rest assured that all your business needs will be taken care of.
Some of the sectors that are flourishing on mainland Sharjah:
Business setup in Sharjah mainland can take anywhere between one to four weeks. The time varies significantly with your specific business nature and requirements. Dubiz can ensure you get your license as soon as possible.
For Sharjah mainland company set up, you will be majorly dealing with Sharjah Economic Development Department (SEDD), Sharjah Municipality, Ministry of Labour, etc. There can be more, depending on your chosen business.
You can establish these legal entities on Sharjah mainland:
Some of the best investment opportunities in Sharjah include tourism and hospitality, food and beverage, luxury retail, entertainment, education, manufacturing and construction, among others.
