It is possible to start a business in Sharjah without a visa. Most free zones in the UAE offer zero-visa packages that come with a trade license and a flexi-desk or office space. You can also start a Sharjah business on the mainland without a visa.
However, opening a bank account without a residence visa is difficult as your options will be limited and your business will face stricter compliance checks.
How to Start a Business in Sharjah Without a Visa?
Business setup in Sharjah without a visa starts with choosing a jurisdiction (free zone or mainland), reserving a trade name, getting initial approval, applying for a trade license, and registering for Corporate Tax.Â
1.Choose a Jurisdiction
Sharjah has six free zones, all offering full foreign ownership, affordable setup costs, and no duties at customs. Every free zone is regulated by their own authority and caters to different industries. For example, the SRTIP Free Zone supports R&D, e-commerce, general trading, and innovation-related activities.
The Sharjah mainland allows businesses to bid for government contracts, trade directly with UAE customers, and expand their operations easily. The choice of jurisdiction mainly depends on the type of business activity and your budget.
2. Reserve a Trade Name
You can submit up to three business names in English and Arabic to the regulatory authority. Your trade name has to accurately describe your business and cannot plagiarise existing names. The Sharjah Economic Development Department maintains a database of all existing trade names. Â
3. Get Initial Approval
Your business idea needs to be approved by the relevant regulatory authority. You will need to submit your business plan, financial statements, and passport copies of all the shareholders. You can only apply for a business license once you receive initial approval.
4. Apply for a Trade License
There are three main types of trade licenses for businesses in Sharjah: commercial, industrial, and professional. Free zone trade license applications are processed faster than on the mainland.
You will need to submit shareholder passport copies, trade name reservation, initial approval certificate, and proof of funding to get a trade license.
5. Register for Corporate Tax
Every business in Sharjah, both free zone and mainland, has to register for corporate tax. This is mandatory even if your business is under the turnover threshold. VAT registration is only necessary if your business has an annual turnover over AED 375,000.Â
Cost of Starting a Business in Sharjah Without a Visa
The cost of starting a business in Sharjah without a visa starts at AED 5,500, offered by SRTIP free zone. The SRTIP free zone license cost includes a trade license and a flexi-desk office address. As mainland businesses require a physical office, costs fall between AED 15,000 and AED 30,000. Costs include:
- Trade license: AED 5,500 – AED 25,000
- Establishment card: AED 1,500 – AED 3,000
- Government approvals: AED 500 – AED 5,000+
- Office: AED 0 – AED 25,000+ (certain free zone packages include a flexi-desk)
SRTIP’s business setup consultants can give you an exact estimate of your cost.
Choose SRTIP Accelerator to Start Your Sharjah Business
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SRTIP Accelerator can help you start a business in Sharjah, handling the entire licensing process and coordinating with local authorities. Our business setup consultants can also help you apply for a residency visa and open a bank account down the line. Contact us for a free consultation.Â
FAQs
Is it easier to start a business in Sharjah without a visa?
Starting a business without a visa is faster and more cost-effective. Skipping the visa process eliminates medical fitness tests, Emirates ID applications, and visa stamping. This allows you to secure your trade license quickly and reduces your initial setup expenses.
Can I start a business in Sharjah without a visa and then get one later?
You can apply for a residence visa at any point after setting up your business. Most free zones allow you to upgrade your package to include investor or employee visas whenever you are ready to move to the UAE or hire staff.Â
