Sharjah Airport International Free Zone | SAIF Guide
Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF) is an ideal location for business professionals and investors seeking a thriving regional market with cost-effective setup options. It was established in 1995 and now hosts more than 8,000 companies from 165 countries. This diversifies the sectors in the zone, increasing opportunities for new startups.
Here’s what makes SAIF truly special:
- Direct access to Sharjah International Airport and proximity to major ports make it ideal for businesses involved in trade and logistics.
- Lower initial investment compared to other free zones makes it a practical choice for startups and small businesses.
- Flexible office options, visa packages, and ready-to-move spaces cater well to small teams and growing companies.
SAIF zone offers a range of commercial activities in spaces suitable for various industries. It has a helpful business community that fosters growth for new companies. Airport Free Zone Authority offers one of the fastest company formation processes in the UAE. If your business belongs to the industrial, commercial, trade, logistics, IT sector, etc., this zone is perfect for you.
Confused where to start? This guide walks you through everything you should know about company setups in SAIF before setting out, to help you avoid any complications and challenges.
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Types of Business Licenses in SAIF UAE
- Trade License
- Service License
- Industrial License
A simple trade or commercial license allows activities including import, export, distribution, warehousing, retail, etc. It allows only three similar lines of products. It’s perfect for small or medium-sized commercial businesses.
A general trading license is used by large-scale companies and trade chains, allowing them the same activities but including a large range of products.
A service license is used by experts in the sectors to provide their services or consultancy. You have to specify your service on the license. With the market flourishing, the requirement for professional service providers and consultants is increasing in each sector.
In Sharjah Airport International Freezone, E-commerce also falls under this license, including business consultancy, freight, and shipping services. This license is popular and has a wide scope.
Sharjah Airport Free Zone is especially famous for the industrial sector. This license allows its holders to engage in the import/export of raw materials, manufacturing, processing, design, assembling, and exporting the finished products.
Industrial company formation in SAIF has much scope, offering the perfect business environment for industrial companies in Sharjah. Companies do require extra approval from SAIF Zone Health & Environment Department before setup.
Top Selling SAIF
Promotions
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 11,900.00
Save up to AED 1,785.00
- Trade License
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 17,900.00
Save up to AED 2,685.00
- Trade License
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 21,900.00
Save up to AED 3,285.00
- Trade License
- 2 Free Visas for Life
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Executive
STARTING FROM
AED 25,400.00
Save up to AED 3,810.00
- Everything from Elite Plus
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Employee Visa OR Free IBG Fee on 1 Dependent Visa
- VAT Registration – One time only
- Email Setup Assistance
- Dedicated Account Manager
- VIP Assistance for Company Incorporation & 3 visa applications
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 23,900.00
Save up to AED 3,585.00
- Trade License
- 2 Free Visas for Life
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Executive
STARTING FROM
AED 27,400.00
Save up to AED 4,110.00
- Everything from Elite Plus
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Employee Visa OR Free IBG Fee on 1 Dependent Visa
- VAT Registration – One time only
- Email Setup Assistance
- Dedicated Account Manager
- VIP Assistance for Company Incorporation & 3 visa applications
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 25,900.00
Save up to AED 3,885.00
- Trade License
- 2 Free Visas for Life
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Executive
STARTING FROM
AED 29,400.00
Save up to AED 4,410.00
- Everything from Elite Plus
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Employee Visa OR Free IBG Fee on 1 Dependent Visa
- VAT Registration – One time only
- Email Setup Assistance
- Dedicated Account Manager
- VIP Assistance for Company Incorporation & 3 visa applications
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 27,900.00
Save up to AED 4,185.00
- Trade License
- 2 Free Visas for Life
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Executive
STARTING FROM
AED 31,400.00
Save up to AED 4,710.00
- Everything from Elite Plus
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Employee Visa OR Free IBG Fee on 1 Dependent Visa
- VAT Registration – One time only
- Email Setup Assistance
- Dedicated Account Manager
- VIP Assistance for Company Incorporation & 3 visa applications
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 29,900.00
Save up to AED 4,485.00
- Trade License
- 2 Free Visas for Life
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Executive
STARTING FROM
AED 33,400.00
Save up to AED 5,010.00
- Everything from Elite Plus
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Employee Visa OR Free IBG Fee on 1 Dependent Visa
- VAT Registration – One time only
- Email Setup Assistance
- Dedicated Account Manager
- VIP Assistance for Company Incorporation & 3 visa applications
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 21,900.00
Save up to AED 3,285.00
- Trade License
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 27,900.00
Save up to AED 4,185.00
- Trade License
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 31,900.00
Save up to AED 4,785.00
- Trade License
- 2 Free Visas for Life
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Executive
STARTING FROM
AED 35,400.00
Save up to AED 5,310.00
- Everything from Elite Plus
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Employee Visa OR Free IBG Fee on 1 Dependent Visa
- VAT Registration – One time only
- Email Setup Assistance
- Dedicated Account Manager
- VIP Assistance for Company Incorporation & 3 visa applications
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 33,900.00
Save up to AED 5,085.00
- Trade License
- 2 Free Visas for Life
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Executive
STARTING FROM
AED 37,400.00
Save up to AED 5,610.00
- Everything from Elite Plus
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Employee Visa OR Free IBG Fee on 1 Dependent Visa
- VAT Registration – One time only
- Email Setup Assistance
- Dedicated Account Manager
- VIP Assistance for Company Incorporation & 3 visa applications
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 35,900.00
Save up to AED 5,385.00
- Trade License
- 2 Free Visas for Life
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Executive
STARTING FROM
AED 39,400.00
Save up to AED 5,910.00
Executive Contains
Business Incorporation Starter Pack
- 1 Free Visa Processing for Employee from A to Z
- OR
- 1 Free Visa Processing for Dependents from A to Z
- Health Insurance Assistance
- VAT Registration – One Time Only
- Email Setup Assistance
- Dedicated Account Manager
- VIP assistance for visa application and Company incorporation
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 37,900.00
Save up to AED 5,685.00
- Trade License
- 2 Free Visas for Life
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Executive
STARTING FROM
AED 41,400.00
Save up to AED 6,210.00
- Everything from Elite Plus
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Employee Visa OR Free IBG Fee on 1 Dependent Visa
- VAT Registration – One time only
- Email Setup Assistance
- Dedicated Account Manager
- VIP Assistance for Company Incorporation & 3 visa applications
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 39,900.00
Save up to AED 5,985.00
- Trade License
- 2 Free Visas for Life
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Executive
STARTING FROM
AED 43,400.00
Save up to AED 6,510.00
- Everything from Elite Plus
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Employee Visa OR Free IBG Fee on 1 Dependent Visa
- VAT Registration – One time only
- Email Setup Assistance
- Dedicated Account Manager
- VIP Assistance for Company Incorporation & 3 visa applications
Process and Timeline
- 1Should be 18 years old and above
- 2Should not have any criminal records
- 3The business should be legally permissible
- 4Should be an individual, corporate or mixed of both
Company Registration
For Individual Shareholder/s
1. Scanned passport copy
2. Emirates ID copy (back & front), if applicable
3. Scanned visa copy/UAE Entry Stamp/Tourist or Visit Visa Copy
4. Number of Shareholders with sharing (%) of Manager of the company
If Manager is not a Shareholder:
1. Full Name as per the passport
2. Valid Phone Number
3. UAE Home Address
4. Scanned passport copy
5. Passport size with white background
6. Scanned copy of the visa page
7. Emirates ID copy (back & front)
For Corporate Shareholder/s
1. Board resolution
2. Trade License, MOA, Incumbency, Share Certificate of the shareholding company
3. Passport copy/ies of the UBO/s
4. Passport copy/ies of the Manager/s
5. Visa of the Manager/s if UAE resident
6. UAE Home address of the Authorized Signatory
7. Passport size photo of the Authorized signatory
8. Number of Shareholders with sharing (%) of Manager of the company
Residence Visa Application
Company Documents
1. Trade License copy
2. Establishment Card copy
Applicant
1. Scanned passport copy, should be current and valid for at least 6 months – coloured, uncut with full border
2. Passport size photo with white background
3. Tourist or visit visa/Residence Cancellation report copy (if applicable)
4. Emirates ID copy (if applicable)
5. Duly filled visa application form
License Package Fees
Standard License – Zero Visa Package
Starts from
AED 11,900
Standard License – With Visa Package
Starts from
AED 17,900
Immigration Fees
Establishment Card – New
AED 2,000
Establishment Card – Renewal
AED 2,200
Visa Application Fees
Residence Visa – 3 years
AED 3,750
Additional AED 1,000 on the visa fee if applying for an Investor/Partner Visa and an AED 48,000 share capital is required.
Change Status
AED 1,600
Applicable if within the UAE application only.
Medical Test
Normal (48 hours) – AED 450
VIP (within 24 hrs) – AED 750
Emirates ID – 3 years
AED 375
Company Registration
Trade Name Approval
1 business day
Shareholder’s Security Approval
5-7 business days
Trade License Issuance
3-4 business days
Establishment Card Application
1 business day
Establishment Card Issuance
5-7 business daysResidence Visa Application
Electronic Visa Application
5-7 business daysClient Arrival (if outside the UAE) | Change Status (if within the UAE)
Depends on the client | 2-3 business daysMedical Test
1 business dayMedical Test Result Release
Normal - 2 business days | VIP - within the dayEmirates ID Typing
1 business day
Obtaining Health Insurance
Depends on the client | Mandatory if applying in Dubai & Abu Dhabi
Visa Approval
5-7 business days
Emirates ID Biometrics & Photo Capturing
Approx. 15-20 business days from the date of Emirates ID typing
Emirates ID Issuance
5 business daysSteps to Start Sharjah International Airport Free Zone Setup
Choose from a wide range of approved activities for company formation in SAIF zone. This will decide the type of license you need to acquire. Check the list of zone activities and choose the ones that fall under your operational interests.
Select the right company structure for your company in SAIF. The authority offers different free zone business setup options. Each has its perks and purpose. See which one goes with your business goals and ownership details.
Apply for your preferred trade name. Make sure that the name is not offensive to the norms of the United Arab Emirates and isn’t against the law. It should be unique to avoid confusion between companies.
Submit the required documents to the Airport International Free Zone Business Authority. Ensure the documents are correct and valid. Or else it may cause fines or delays.
Choose the commercial space best suited to your business and finalize the lease agreement. The zone offers different facilities for industrial free zone setup with strategic locations, including different types of offices, warehouses, and plots of land.
Pay the required fee. Ensure it’s on time. Get any extra approvals if needed, e.g., an industrial license holder requires approval from the Health & Environment Department along with the zone authority.
Once your application for license and fee submission is cleared, you’ll receive the license. You can start the business operations at this point. Study the market and devise a strategic plan to get ahead of your competition.
Benefits of Sharjah Airport International Free Zone
Easy global access
Low setup expenses
100% foreign ownership
Tax-free operations
Fast business setup
Full profit repatriation
Flexible office spaces
Visa support included
Near air & sea ports
Business-friendly rules
Service Highlight in Airport Sharjah Free Zone
Visa Services
Said offers suitable visa packages with company registration. Explore different options and customize your package according to your needs. Residence visas are usually required for shareholders and workers.
Regulatory Services
SAIF license renewal only requires document submission and fee payment. Amendments like manager changes may need extra approvals. Company Liquidation takes a few weeks, requiring document clearance and visa cancellations.
Media Services
SAIF Free Zone keeps its partners and companies updated with the current news and trends to foster growth and responsibility for businesses in Sharjah. This allows each company to jump on new opportunities quickly with ease.
Types of Free Zone Company Setups in SAIF
FZE
A Free Zone Establishment (FZE) is a limited liability company structure owned by a single individual or a company. It is perfect for startups, brands, and businesses looking for sole proprietorship in the Emirate of Sharjah.
FZC
A Free Zone Company (FZC) is a company structure owned by more than one entity. It offers limited liability. It is perfect for large-scale businesses or brands owned by several individuals or companies. It’s the most popular type in the zone.
Branch
This structure lets an international or a United Arab Emirates company outside the zone start a branch office inside SAIF without establishing a new legal entity. This type benefits MNCs and national companies looking for expansion.
Simplify the Process to Start Your Company in SAIF
Solution? You need a business consultancy with years of experience, legal knowledge, and networking skills to ensure a smooth business formation process for you. IBG Consultancy has it all and more, including suitable visa packages for a wide range of businesses. Contact IBG Consultancy for smooth company formation in the Sharjah Airport Freezone.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to set up your business next to Sharjah International Airport?
You can complete the process within a few working days if your documents are in order. The business set-up is designed to be quick and efficient, especially for those starting a new company in a location adjacent to the Sharjah International Airport.
What types of business can operate in SAIF Zone without restrictions?
The zone has a very broad range of permissible sectors. You can choose from various commercial, industrial, and service-oriented activities that are specified in the license during company formation in Sharjah.
Is a warehouse facility available for businesses operating in this zone?
Yes, warehouse spaces are available and suitable for storage, distribution, or light manufacturing. These facilities in SAIF are especially ideal for logistics and international free zone business set-up.
Can a company in Sharjah Airport be 100% foreign-owned?
Yes, a foreign company can fully own a SAIF company. This allows international and local investors to retain complete control while benefiting from the supportive ecosystem of the dynamic emirates in the UAE.
How is a company license issued instantly in this business set-up?
For many business activities, the license is issued instantly after approval, making SAIF business a fast-track option for entrepreneurs. This efficiency simplifies company registration for those starting a business in Sharjah.
Can the setup be done personally by company owners without using agents?
Yes, company formation in Sharjah’s SAIF can be done personally by company owners. The process is straightforward, and assistance is available at every step if needed.
Is there a desk package option available for startups or solo entrepreneurs?
Yes, the SAIF desk package is designed for startups or individual consultants who don’t need a full office or warehouse. It provides a low-cost way to meet basic business requirements.
What is the cost in SAIF compared to other zones in the UAE?
The cost in SAIF is considered one of the most budget-friendly options for business set-up in UAE. It provides flexibility without compromising access to infrastructure or services.
How far is this location from Dubai and other major areas?
SAIF Zone is just 20 minutes drive from Dubai International Airport, making it convenient for international and regional business connections.
Can you share its activity list before choosing a license type?
Yes, you can review the large number of products and services available on the activity list. This helps you select the right license type when planning to setup a company in Sharjah.
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