Everything You Need to Know About Starting a Business in Sharjah, UAE

Do you want to start a Business setup in Sharjah, UAE? Sharjah is a fantastic area to do business since it is centrally located, the rules are business-friendly, and there are several chances for entrepreneurs. We will explain all you need to know about Business setup in Sharjah and  Business setup in Sharjah Freezone in this simple tutorial. We will go over the various types of businesses available, how to get started, how much it might cost, and who can assist you, such as the SRTIP Accelerator.

Sharjah is a special place with a lot of culture and different types of enterprises on the east side of the UAE. This guide will show you how to start a business in Sharjah, whether in the city or in a free zone. So, if you are considering opening a business in Sharjah, this article will assist simplify and clarify the process for you.

 

Why Start a Business in Sharjah?

When considering business setup in Sharjah, its strategic location between Dubai And the Northern Emirates, companies have easy access to a large consumer market. This geographical advantage is supported by a business-friendly environment that provides tax breaks and incentives to attract foreign investors. Sharjah’s economy is extraordinarily broad, spanning trade, manufacturing, tourism, and technology, providing a wide range of chances for entrepreneurs. Business setup in a Sharjah Freezone offers entrepreneurs numerous benefits, including tax incentives and simplified regulatory processes.The UAE’s stable economic and political environment, which Sharjah shares, generates investor confidence. Overall, Sharjah’s attraction as a booming business destination is supported by its location, welcoming business environment, economic diversification, and free zone benefits.

Corporate Entities in Sharjah:

LLC (Limited Liability Company):

• An LLC is a common choice for business setup in Sharjah, because it provides owners with freedom and limited responsibility.
• It requires at least two stockholders and a maximum of fifty.
• The liability of shareholders is restricted to their respective share capital contributions.
• Because LLCs can engage in a wide range of activities, they are suited for a variety of businesses.

Partnership Company:

• Partnership firms are great for professionals that want to collaborate and share their knowledge, such as doctors, attorneys, or consultants.
• Partnerships can be formed by two or more people.
• Partners agree to share earnings and losses, and their responsibility is unlimited.

Local Service Agent:

• When foreign companies set up a Business in Sharjah, they must appoint a local service agent.
• The local service agent acts as a sponsor and liaises with government authorities on behalf of the foreign company.
• The local service agent doesn’t have ownership or involvement in the company’s operations.

Foreign Company Branch:

• International companies who want to do business in Sharjah can open a branch.
• Branches are extensions of the parent company that are licensed by UAE authorities to engage in specified activities.
• For branch setups, a local service agent is necessary.

Local Company Branch:

• Local Sharjah enterprises can expand their operations by establishing branches in the emirate or elsewhere in the UAE.
• Local company branches follow the same ownership and management structure as the parent company.

Public-Private Joint Stock Company:

• This business entity is appropriate for large-scale projects involving public-private collaboration.
• Shareholding corporations can sell stock to both public and private investors.
• The appropriate regulations and agreements outline the governance and structure of these companies.

Each of these Sharjah corporate entities caters to distinct business needs and structures, letting entrepreneurs select the best option depending on their goals, industry, and growth plans.

Procedure to Set Up a Business in Sharjah:

Procedures for Trade Names and Licenses:

1. Choose a Trade Name: To begin, choose a unique and appropriate trade name for your firm, making sure it fits with the standards and requirements. 
2. Obtain Required permits: Depending on the nature of your business, obtain the necessary permits from the Department of Economic Development (DED) or the local free zone authorities.
3. Permit Requirements: Determine the permits required for your business, which may include commercial permits, industrial permits, or professional permits, depending on the nature of your firm.

• Application Process: Begin the permit application process by submitting the required paperwork and documentation.
• Evaluation and Approval: : Schedule an appointment with the appropriate department for evaluation and site approval. In some circumstances, authorisation from entities such as Civil Defense may be required.
• Lease Authentication: As part of the permitting procedure, ensure that your lease agreement is properly authenticated and verified.
• Permissions from Government Authorities: Obtain the necessary permissions from government authorities, indicating the type of business activity you intend to engage in.
• Payment of permission Fees: Finish the process by submitting the required permission fees to the licensing department, following which you will be issued your permit.

By taking these steps, you may begin your path to Register your company in Sharjah , ensuring that your company meets all legal criteria and is ready to prosper in Sharjah’s vibrant business environment.

Documentation Required for Business Setup:

• Shareholder Passport Copies: Make copies of the passports of all shareholders participating in the firm.
• No Objection Certificate (NOC) if requested: If requested by the authorities, submit a No Objection Certificate. 
• Memorandum of Association: Include the Memorandum of Association, which outlines the company’s purpose and structure.
• Tenancy Contract: Show a genuine tenancy contract for your Sharjah company premises.
• Initial Approval from DED or Free Zone Authority: To begin your business operations, obtain initial approval from the Department of Economic Development (DED) or the relevant free zone authority.
• General trading license in Sharjah may also necessitate additional documentation, such as a No Objection Certificate (NOC), in compliance with regulatory requirements.

By gathering these necessary documents, you may streamline the process of Registering a business in Sharjah  and ensure that you meet all legal criteria. 

Cost of Setting up a Business:

Business setup in Sharjah entails a variety of charges that can vary significantly depending on a number of crucial aspects. Understanding these cost variables is critical for any ambitious entrepreneur looking to launch a successful firm in this fast-paced emirate. Here’s a more in-depth look at the costs of starting a business in Sharjah:

1. Business Structure: The form of corporate entity you select has a considerable impact on the cost of establishment. Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) may necessitate a higher capital commitment than branches of international corporations or local partnerships. The amount of money required establishing an LLC varies based on the type of the firm.
2. Location: The geographical location inside Sharjah is critical in calculating costs. Leasing office or warehouse space in a desirable location can be more expensive than leasing space in a less convenient location. While free zones provide certain benefits, they also have varied price schemes that might influence expenses.
3. company Activity: The sector and company activity you intend to engage in can have a major impact on startup costs. Some activities may demand particular permits or licenses, which will increase the entire cost.
4. Legal and Regulatory Fees: When you register your firm, you must comply with local laws and regulations. This includes paying fees for approvals, licenses, and permits, which can vary depending on the structure and operations of your business.
5. Office Space and Utilities: There are charges connected with renting office space or commercial assets in Sharjah. Additionally, utilities such as power, water, and internet services contribute to your company’s operational expenses.
6. Sponsorship and Service costs: If your business arrangement includes a collaboration with a local sponsor or service agent, you will need to budget for sponsorship and service costs.
7. Consultancy and Professional Fees: Using the services of business setup professionals, lawyers, accountants, and consultants to manage the complex setup procedure is frequent and recommended. These specialists are compensated for their services.
8. Visa and Employment Expenses: Recruiting and sponsoring employees or partners may necessitate visa processing fees, medical examinations, and other costs.

Other miscellaneous costs include branding and marketing, insurance, and early working capital to support day-to-day operational expenses until the business becomes self-sustaining.

Government Authorities for Business Activities in Sharjah:

Here is a brief outline of Sharjah’s important government authorities for business activities:

SEDD (Sharjah Economic Development Department):

• Responsible for advising business owners on legal issues and issuing permits for various trade and business activities in the Emirate of Sharjah.
• Contributes significantly to the creation of a fair and transparent corporate environment.

Labor Ministry:

• Allows Sharjah firms to hire personnel by permitting both local and expatriate workforce recruiting.
• Oversees labor-related issues and ensures that labor standards are followed.

Department of Immigration:

• Manages immigration and visa issues for foreign entrepreneurs and employees looking to set up and run enterprises in Sharjah.
• Provides business owners and overseas workers with the requisite visas and stamps.

Nominal Shareholder or Local Sponsor:

• A local sponsor, usually a UAE person or a UAE-owned corporation, works as a service agent for companies establishing themselves in the UAE.
• They can be sleeping partners, but they must sign a thorough agreement outlining their responsibilities and annual fees.

The UAE Department of Economic Development (DED UAE):

• Regulates and supervises economic activities in Sharjah and the UAE as a whole.
• Trade licenses are granted based on the type of the business and the location of the company inside the UAE.

Collectively, these government bodies contribute to the smooth and effective functioning of enterprises in Sharjah by guaranteeing compliance with local legislation and establishing a favorable climate for entrepreneurship and investment. 

You can unlock the full potential of Sharjah’s dynamic business landscape with the SRTIP Accelerator as your partner. We give the resources, mentorship, and assistance required to successfully launch and grow your tech-focused company. 

Opportunities and Business Support in Sharjah:

The Sharjah Economic Development Department (DED) makes it easy to establish a business in Sharjah. Entrepreneurs benefit from a variety of services, such as business consulting, conflict resolution, and market analysis.

The landscape provides different advantages for anyone considering establishing a business in Sharjah Free Zones. Free Zones simplify processes and offer tax breaks, making them a popular choice for both startups and existing firms.

Sharjah offers tempting prospects in a variety of fields. Its manufacturing sector, which includes petrochemicals, food processing, and machinery, is thriving. Furthermore, Sharjah’s strategic location and world-class logistical infrastructure position it as a vital participant in transportation. Furthermore, the Sharjah Research, Technology, and Innovation Park (SRTIP) fosters technological innovation, making it a magnet for technology and innovation firms.

SRTIP Accelerator: Your Business Setup Partner:

The Sharjah Research, Technology, and Innovation Park (SRTIP) Accelerator is an excellent resource for IT entrepreneurs and innovative businesses. It offers a variety of services, such as finance, mentorship, and access to cutting-edge facilities, making it an excellent partner for entrepreneurs wishing to begin their digital enterprises in Sharjah.

Sharjah beckons as a desirable location for developing your tech company or innovative enterprise. The Sharjah Research, Technology, and Innovation Park (SRTIP) Accelerator emerges as a reliable friend on your entrepreneurial journey.

With access to capital, coaching, cutting-edge facilities, and a thriving tech ecosystem, SRTIP Accelerator is ready to take your company to the next level. Sharjah’s strategic position, combined with its welcoming attitude and growing opportunities, makes it a perfect site for ICT businesses.

So do not be shy. Take the next step and Register a business in Sharjah with the SRTIP Accelerator. Your IT startup’s success story in Sharjah awaits its thrilling chapter with this crucial partner by your side.