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Business Setup in Sharjah Mainland

Walk through a simple Sharjah company setup process with our experienced team

Business Setup in Sharjah Mainland

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.

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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.

What is Mainland in Sharjah?

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 setup 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.

Types of Businesses in Sharjah Mainland

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:
  • Commercial business licens

    Commercial business licens

    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.
  • Professional business license

    Professional business license

    For offering service-based activities where expertise, qualifications, and special knowledge are required, businesses will need a professional license in Sharjah.
  • Industrial business license

    Industrial business license

    Manufacturing, assembling, processing or other such industrial operations require businesses to hold an industrial license in Sharjah.
  • E-commerce business license

    E-commerce business license

    With an e-commerce license in Sharjah, you can sell products and services electronically via social media, online marketplaces, and websites.
General steps involved in Sharjah mainland business setup

Steps for Sharjah Mainland Company Setup

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.
1

Finalize business activities:

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.
2

Find a local sponsor, if applicable:

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.
3

Choose the legal structure:

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.
4

Register the trade name:

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.
5

Obtain initial approval:

Get the preliminary permission from Sharjah Economic Development Department (SEDD) to establish your business in Sharjah mainland.
6

Finalize office space:

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.
7

Prepare the legal documents:

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.
8

Apply for the business license:

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.
9

Get the establishment card:

Apply for the company establishment card with the immigration authority. It validates your business as complaint legal entity.
10

Apply for the required visas:

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.
11

Open a business bank account:

Request for a corporate bank account to manage the finances and track your business transactions.
12

Additional steps:

You may need to apply for some additional permits such as with municipality, healthcare authority, or else, based on your business activity.

How Much is the Sharjah Mainland License Cost?

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.

Key Documentation for Business Setup in Sharjah mainland

To get your business license on Sharjah mainland, you will need to submit the following documents to the SEDD:
Completed application form
Passport-sized photographs of shareholders
Visa and Emirates ID copies of shareholders (if applicable)
Passport copies of business owners/managers
Approvals from relevant government departments
Detailed business plan
Attested Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA)
Office lease agreement (tenancy contract)
Bank reference letters
Visa, passport, and family book copy of the local sponsor (if applicable)

Please note that documentation can vary based on specific business nature. You can get detailed assistance directly from our experts.

Legal Entities Allowed on Mainland Sharjah

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.

Get your Sharjah Company Setup with Dubiz

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.

Here's why 7000+ entrepreneurs choose us:
  • 8+ years of solid track record and proven success.
  • Strong team of experts, PROs and accountants.
  • Years of reliable ties with local authorities.
  • A complete range of company formation services.
  • Transparent pricing with no hidden charges.
  • Efficient processes with clear client communication.
  • Hands-on ongoing support for legal compliance.
Get assistance →

Most Popular Industries

Some of the sectors that are flourishing on mainland Sharjah:

  • Trading and general commerce

  • Real estate and property

  • Fashion and cosmetics

  • Manufacturing and industrial

  • Healthcare and medical services

  • Training and education

  • Transportation and logistics

  • IT and business consultancy

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FAQs on Business Setup in Sharjah Mainland

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:

  • Limited Liability Company (LLC)
  • Civil company
  • Brach of UAE, GCC or foreign company
  • Partnership firm
  • Sole establishment
  • Private/public share company

Some of the best investment opportunities in Sharjah include tourism and hospitality, food and beverage, luxury retail, entertainment, education, manufacturing and construction, among others.