Setting up a business in the Sharjah Free Zone presents a prudent choice, whether you're launching a new venture or expanding an existing one. While initiating a business can be intricate, Sharjah offers an advantageous environment for budding entrepreneurs to take their first steps.
Sharjah Free Zone has emerged as a prominent logistics and maritime trading hub within the UAE, strategically positioned between Asia, Europe, and Africa. This strategic location facilitates seamless trade operations and meets the diverse requirements of investors seeking global connectivity.
Business setup in Sharjah Free Zone presents an affordable alternative, with its popularity attributed to attractive facilities such as well-developed infrastructure and competitive rental rates coupled with simplified licensing procedures. Sharjah Free Zones offer 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, and other business-friendly benefits, making it an appealing destination for entrepreneurs.
If you're considering Sharjah Free Zone as the ideal region to establish your business, don't hesitate to consult with Innovate. Our experienced team specializes in guiding businesses through the intricacies of setting up in the Free Zones of the UAE, ensuring a smooth and efficient process.
Let's delve into the details of business setup in Sharjah Free Zone to help you make informed decisions and navigate the path to success. Contact Innovate today for expert assistance and personalized guidance tailored to your business needs.
Benefits of Starting a Business in Sharjah Free Zone
- Total exemption from corporate or personal income taxes
- 100% ownership for foreign investors
- Adaptable regulations
- 100% exemption on imports and exports
- Investment security
- Affordable rates on leasing
- Can accommodate onsite labor
- Eliminates currency barriers
- Has local as well as foreign banks
- Easily access big ports and Sharjah International Airport
Licenses for Business Setup in Sharjah Free Zone
In the Sharjah Free Zone, obtaining the appropriate license is essential to legalize your business activities. Your chosen business activity will determine the type of license required, with each license type tailored to specific business activities. Here are the license types implemented in the Sharjah Free Zone:
1. Commercial License:
This license is granted to companies engaged in trading, buying, or selling goods. Issued by the Free Zone Authorities, examples of businesses requiring a Commercial License include logistics firms, car rental companies, and real estate agencies.
2. Trading License:
Businesses involved in industrial and manufacturing activities are issued a Trading License. To hold this license, a physical office presence in the UAE Free Zone is typically required. Examples of activities covered under this license include food product trading, furniture manufacturing, packaging, etc.
3. Professional License:
Companies providing services to various businesses are granted a Professional License. Businesses such as artisans, law firms, and medical services providers require a Professional License to operate legally within the Sharjah Free Zone.
Each license type serves to regulate and legalize specific business activities, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and facilitating smooth business operations within the Sharjah Free Zone. Now, let's delve into the details of each Free Zone within Sharjah to provide a comprehensive overview.
Business Setup in Sharjah Free Zones in UAE
Sharjah's strategic location along the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman makes it highly advantageous for businesses involved in sea-route trades. Whether you're considering establishing a business in the media and entertainment industry, consultancy services, marine-related domains, or the IT industry, Sharjah offers a conducive environment to meet all your business needs.
With its well-connected sea routes and proximity to key global markets, Sharjah serves as an ideal location for businesses looking to capitalize on maritime trade opportunities. Additionally, the diverse range of industries thriving in Sharjah, including media, entertainment, consultancy, marine-related sectors, and IT, highlights the versatility and adaptability of the region to accommodate various business ventures.
Whether you're aiming to leverage Sharjah's strategic location for maritime trade or tap into its diverse economic landscape for business opportunities, the region stands ready to fulfill your business needs and support your entrepreneurial endeavors.
Major Free Zones in Sharjah
Here are the major Free Zones in Sharjah:
- Sharjah Media City Free Zone (SHAMS)
- Hamriyah Free Zone Authority (HFZA)
- Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF)
- Sharjah Publishing City (SPC)
Sharjah Media City (SHAMS) Free Zone
Despite being one of the newest free zones in the UAE, SHAMS Free Zone in Sharjah has experienced remarkable growth and development. While often referred to as the Media Free Zone, SHAMS offers a diverse array of business opportunities beyond the media industry.
In addition to media-related activities, SHAMS encompasses various other business sectors including trading, professional services, and more. This broad spectrum of business activities reflects the dynamic and inclusive nature of SHAMS, making it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs across different industries.
To establish a business in SHAMS Free Zone, you need at least one shareholder. This shareholder can be an individual or a corporate entity, enabling flexibility in ownership structure and facilitating the setup process for businesses seeking to establish a presence in SHAMS.
With its rapid growth and expansive business opportunities, SHAMS Free Zone in Sharjah presents an enticing prospect for entrepreneurs looking to launch or expand their ventures in the UAE.
Documents Required to Start a Business in SHAMS Free Zone
- Application form
- Business strategy
- Passport copies of the owner or the application
- NOC from the sponsor
- Signature of the shareholder
Hamriyah Free Zone
Located close to major seaports and renowned for its affordability, this Free Zone stands out as one of the most economical options for setting up a business in the UAE. Beyond its competitive pricing, the Free Zone offers a host of advantages that make it an attractive choice for entrepreneurs.
Operating in a tax-free environment, businesses established in this Free Zone benefit from 100% ownership and enjoy a cost-effective standard of living. Furthermore, there are no currency restrictions or customs duties imposed within the Free Zone, facilitating seamless international transactions and trade operations.
These advantageous features, coupled with its strategic location near major seaports, position the Free Zone as an ideal destination for businesses looking to establish a presence in the UAE. Whether you're a startup or an established enterprise, this Free Zone provides a conducive environment for growth and success.
Documents Required to Start a Business in Hamriyah Free Zone
- Shareholders’ passport and visa copies
- Application form
- Reference from the bank
- Legal documents duly signed
Sharjah Airport International Free Zone
Also known as SAIF Zone, this Free Zone stands as one of the foremost destinations for businesses in the UAE. Offering a multitude of business opportunities, SAIF Zone provides distinct advantages such as foreign ownership, a strategic location abundant with resources, global networking opportunities, and tax benefits.
While Sharjah boasts a significant share of industrial activities within the UAE, SAIF Zone transcends the confines of industrialization and manufacturing. Instead, it serves as a versatile hub accommodating a wide spectrum of businesses across various industries. From manufacturing to trading, from services to logistics, SAIF Zone provides a conducive environment for businesses of all types to thrive and flourish.
With its strategic location, robust infrastructure, and investor-friendly policies, SAIF Zone continues to attract entrepreneurs and businesses seeking growth opportunities in the dynamic landscape of the UAE. Whether you're a startup venturing into new territory or an established enterprise looking to expand your presence, SAIF Zone offers a platform for success and prosperity.
Documents Required to Start a Business in SAIF Zone
- Owners’ passport and visa copies
- Application form
- Summary of the project
- MOA & AOA
- Bank statements for the last 3 months
Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone
Located conveniently on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road in Sharjah, just a stone's throw away from Sharjah International Airport, this Free Zone serves as an ideal destination for businesses in the publishing sector. With its strategic location and dedicated focus on fostering the growth of publishing businesses, it offers a conducive environment for companies to thrive and succeed.
At Innovate, we specialize in assisting businesses in setting up their operations in Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone. Whether you require co-working spaces, retail chains, commercial offices, or storage services, this Free Zone caters to all your business needs with its comprehensive range of facilities and amenities.
If you belong to the publishing industry and are seeking an optimal location to establish or expand your business, Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone provides the perfect platform for growth and success. With Innovate by your side, navigating the setup process becomes seamless and hassle-free, allowing you to focus on realizing your business goals and objectives effectively.
Documents Required to Start a Business in Sharjah Publishing City Zone
- Passport copy
- Residence visa copy (if you are in the UAE)
- Copy of educational certificates of the Managers
- 2 passport-sized photographs
If the company exists outside the Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone, you need to collect the notarized and attested copies of the following during application:
- Certificate of Incorporation
- MOA (Memorandum of Association)
- Confirmation from the Board agreeing to set up the company in Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone
- Certificate of Authority (if any)
Documents Required for Business Setup in Sharjah Free Zone
- Application form
- Copy of trade license
- Passport copies of shareholders
- 2 years’ audited financial report
- NOC
Steps to Start a Business in Sharjah Free Zone
Setting up a business in the Sharjah Free Zone can indeed be a seamless process with the assistance of a reliable business setup consultancy firm like us. Here are the steps involved in setting up a business in the Sharjah Free Zone:
1. Determine the Suitable Free Zone:
The first step is to assess the nature of your business and select the most suitable Free Zone in Sharjah based on your requirements and preferences.
2. Prepare an Effective Business Plan:
It's essential to develop a comprehensive business plan that outlines your company's vision, objectives, and strategies. A well-crafted business plan serves as a roadmap for your business and is crucial for attracting investors and stakeholders.
3. Choose a Suitable Trade Name:
Selecting an appropriate trade name for your company is vital. Ensure that the chosen name aligns with your business activities and is not already in use by another entity. Additionally, verify that the proposed name complies with the Free Zone's naming regulations.
4. Complete the Licensing Process and Business Registrations:
The final step involves completing the licensing and registration procedures for your business. This includes submitting all necessary documents, obtaining shareholders' signatures on business setup documents, and fulfilling any additional requirements specified by the Free Zone authorities.
By following these steps diligently and leveraging the expertise of a reputable business setup consultancy firm, you can navigate the process of setting up your business in the Sharjah Free Zone efficiently and effectively. With the right support and guidance, you can embark on your entrepreneurial journey with confidence and success.
