E-commerce License in Sharjah: Cost and Requirements

Middle East’s heart and mind, Sharjah, the Emirate of the UAE, is where entrepreneurs, SMEs, and global businesses thrive in a vibrant environment. The Emirate is perfect for any kind of business, including e-commerce ventures. However, to start an e-commerce business there, you would need an e-commerce license Sharjah.

In this blog, we will explore starting e-commerce business in Emirate of Sharjah, the licensing procedure, the benefits that make Sharjah so popular, and all the other legal requirements in detail.

Doing business in Sharjah – The advantages

Sharjah has a steadily growing economy, a well-educated population, and a highly diversified economic landscape, making it one of the best places for long-term investments. The Emirate also provides access to thriving global markets and a pool of multi-talented professionals.

Sharjah is known as the cultural capital of the UAE, and today it is gaining popularity for being a hub for future-thinking, innovative, and sustainable startups and businesses. The Emirate features one of the most advanced infrastructures in the world and offers fertile ground for e-commerce businesses of all sizes to grow.

With its strategic location between Europe and East Asia, Sharjah is an ideal gateway to major international markets. In short, Sharjah offers the perfect atmosphere for online business expansion and growth.

E-commerce license in Sharjah

An e-commerce license Sharjah is a legal permit issued by the Sharjah Department of Economic Development (SEDD) or the respective free zone authority that allows businesses to operate electronically through social networks and online platforms. Companies can choose between mainland and free zone licenses, with free zones like SHAMS and Hamriyah Free Zone offering affordable packages.

Once an e-commerce license in Sharjah is secured, businesses can conduct their online operations in compliance with UAE regulations. The popular business activities supported include consultancy, IT, design, and other interesting sectors.

Types of e-commerce licenses Sharah

There are broadly two types of e-commerce licenses in Sharjah:

1. Mainland license:

Mainland licenses are issued by the Sharjah Department of Economic Development (SEDD). Here are the benefits of mainland e-commerce license:

• Unrestricted market access in Sharjah and UAE
• Wide range of business activities
• Opportunity to work with government

2. Freezone license:

Freezone licenses are issued by the respective freezone authority. Here are the benefits of holding freezone e-commerce trade license:

• Complete ownership of business
• Low-cost business setup opportunities
• Fast and easy licensing process

How to get Sharjah e-commerce license?

Here are the steps to get e-commerce license Sharjah:

Step 1 – Decide your business activity:

First things first, decide what kind of business you want to run. You must choose the products or services you plan to offer online.

Step 2 – Choose a business model:

Next, decide on the legal entity you want to establish. Whether it’s going to be a dropshipping business, a digital marketplace, or any other model. You also need to choose the right business structure.

Step 3 – Decide business location:

In Sharjah, you can set up your business on the mainland or in a free zone, the choice is yours, depending on what suits your business needs best.

Step 4 – Register trade name:

Select a good name for your business and get it registered. Make sure you follow the naming rules in place to avoid any legal issues.

Step 5 – Fulfil additional requirements:

For your e-commerce business, you must sort out office space, warehouse needs, and any other staffing or operational requirements.

Step 6 – Apply for the license:

Complete the license application form, submit it along with the required documents, and pay the necessary fees. You must submit your application to the SEDD (Sharjah’s Department of Economic Development) or the respective free zone authority.

Step 7 – Receive your license:

Once your application is approved, you will receive your trade license in Sharjah for e-commerce business, after which you can legally start operating your business.

Step 8 – Visa and bank account:

You must get UAE residence visa for yourself and your staff as needed. Additionally, you would need a business bank account set up for financial matters.

Sharjah e-commerce license requirements

Here are the documents you will have to submit to the Sharjah authorities for obtaining an e-commerce license:

• Passport copy
• Memorandum of Association
• Copy of visa
• Emirates ID card, if required
• No Objection Certificate, if needed

There may be additional requirements. It is best to consult our business setup expert for more details.

Cost of e-commerce license Sharjah

The e-commerce license Sharjah cost starts from AED 5,750* (in freezones such as SHAMS).

The cost can vary based on the jurisdiction, license type, and other specific business requirements. You can contact our experts at Dubiz Business Setup for a cost estimate.

Still wondering why Sharjah for business?

Here are the benefits of starting an online business in Sharjah that you must know:

1. Demand from people:

Sharjah’s population comprises of highly qualified, working and affluent population who are looking for quality products and services online.

2. Pro-business environment:

The process of starting an e-commerce business in Sharjah has been made very simple by its government, with the goal of attracting business minds from across the globe.

3. Skilled talent pool:

Young, talented, diverse, and multicultural professionals call Sharjah their home, both locals and expats. Businesses can tap into a well-educated and vibrant workforce from various fields.

4. Gateway to international markets:

Sharjah is the only Emirate that shares its borders with all other Emirates, including Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Its strategic geographic location makes it ideal for reaching the GCC and international markets.

5. Developed infrastructure and logistics:

Sharjah has developed logistics infrastructure. Be it air, sea, or land ports, the connectivity is seamless. Advanced IT systems, high speed Wi-Fi connectivity, and modern facilities further ensure smooth e-commerce business operations.

6. Low tax regime:

Like the rest of the UAE, the tax environment of Sharjah is very beneficial offering low corporate tax rates and zero personal income tax. Additionally, you may benefit from zero customs taxes and no currency restrictions.

7. Advaned freezones:

Freezone in Sharjah, such as SHAMS, support variety of online business activities. These freezones offer exclusive benefits and are hub for online businesses from various industry like consulting, marketing, consulting, import and export, event planning, media and more.

Freezones in Sharjah for e-commerce business

Looking for 100% ownership with tax friendly environment and complete ownership benefits, then freezones in Sharjah could be the best platform for your e-commerce business.

Here are the top freezones that offer Sharjah free zone e-commerce license:

1. Sharjah Media City (SHAMS):

Known for empowering creative and innovative startups and entrepreneurs, SHAMS is one of the most sought-after free zones in Sharjah for e-commerce businesses. The free zone also offers low-cost business setup packages and world-class infrastructure, making it an ideal choice for digital entrepreneurs.

2. Hamriyah Free Zone:

Hamriyah Free Zone is the second-largest industrial free zone in the UAE and another great option for getting e-commerce license Sharjah. It offers a strong economic base, modern infrastructure, excellent connectivity, and operational support facilities for entrepreneurs.

3. Sharjah International Airport Free Zone (SAIF Zone):

Another promising location to grow your e-commerce business is the SAIF Free Zone. This free zone offers plenty of opportunities to connect, collaborate, and scale your business. You’ll also enjoy benefits such as expat staff recruitment, a vibrant business community, and an environment filled with lush greenery, not to be forgotten!

How to choose the right freezone for your Sharjah e-commerce business

Here are few things to consider while choosing among the Sharjah freezones for your e-commerce business:

1. License cost: You must choose the freezone offering packages that meet your budget needs.
2.  Permitted activities: The freezone you select must be supporting the activities you intend to pursue.
3. Visa requirements: Depending on the visas you need for yourself, your staff and family, choose the freezone that offers suitable package.
4. Growth: Choose the freezone that would allow upgrading and expanding your business endeavours in future easily.

Things to consider for your e-commerce business

Here are some tips for running a successful e-commerce business in Sharjah:

1. Invest in your online store:

Build a strong online presence be it your website, social media profiles, or other platforms. In online business, that’s where you can showcase and sell your products.

2. Leverage digital marketing:

Use social media marketing, SEO, and content marketing in a smart way, which can help you attract more customers.

3. Put customer service first:

In online business, experience plays a very important role. Make sure you answer all queries related to order placement, returns, cancellations, and other concerns promptly.

4. Always respect the law of the land:

Make sure to keep your business license renewed. Stay vigilant about changes in the laws and regulations concerning online businesses.

Get your Sharjah business license with right support!

Starting an e-commerce business in Sharjah is indeed a successful business choice. As an entrepreneur you must just chose the right products/services, business model and be careful about getting the right business registration and licensing.

For professional assistance and guidance, you can consider partnering up with experts like Dubiz Business Setup. With over seven years of experience, we have helped entrepreneurs coming from different walks of life establish themselves in UAE.

From getting the company registered in UAE, mainland, freezone and offshore, to securing the trade licenses, business bank account and golden visa, we can help you with everything you need.

Contact us today:

📞 Call: +971 56 369 5485

💬 WhatsApp: +971563695485

📧 Email: info@dubiz.co

Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)

1. What businesses are supported by the e-commerce license Sharjah?

An e-commerce license in Sharjah is issued for a wide range of business activities including: knowledge services, ready-made garments trade, gifts and jewellery trade, electronics trading, educational services, food and perfume business, and many more.

2. Is mainland a better choice or a freezone for e-commerce business in Sharjah?

Mainland and free zones both offer unique benefits for opening an e-commerce store in Sharjah. If you want free market access across the UAE and Sharjah, the mainland could be the better choice. Free zones in UAE, on the other hand, offer exclusive advantages such as 100% business ownership and major tax savings.

3. What is Eitimad license in Sharjah?

The Eitimad license is an e-commerce license in Sharjah issued by the Sharjah Department of Economic Development (SEDD) for home-based and electronic businesses that operate through social networks. The Eitimad license is available only to UAE nationals residing in Sharjah, aged 18 years or older.

4. Can I start online business in Sharjah without license?

No, it is completely prohibited to start any kind of online business in Sharjah without acquiring the right business license. It may result in legal penalties and action against you.

5. What is the validity of e-commerce license Sharjah?

The e-commerce license in Sharjah is typically valid for one year after which it needs to be renewed.