Setting up a business in the Sharjah Mainland typically costs between AED 10,000 and AED 30,000+. The overall cost varies based on specific business needs such as location, visas, and activities.
Guide to Business Setup in Sharjah Mainland, UAE
The UAE is a central industrial hub, with 19 of its key industrial areas located in Sharjah, which accounts for 49% of the country’s industrial output. Sharjah mainland offers over 2000 approved business activities, tax benefits, and a world-class infrastructure., Considering all that, it is high time for company formation in the Sharjah Mainland.
Here’s what makes the Mainland Sharjah truly special:
- Sharjah has a great location. It is close to Dubai and other Emirates. It also has ports and airports, making trade and shipping easy.
- It’s cost-effective. You can own your business fully and don’t have to worry about sending money in or out.
- The setup mainland company formation is easy. There are simple rules, good buildings, and help for new business owners.
Sharjah already houses MNCs, international organizations, industrial areas, and world-renowned brands. Starting your company in such an environment gives you a head start and provides you with all the means to flourish in the business sector.
Understanding the process to set up your business and obtain a Sharjah Mainland business license is important to avoid any complications and delays. This guide walks you through everything you need to establish a business in Sharjah and more.
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Types of licenses for Companies in Sharjah, UAE
- Professional License
- Tourism License
- Industrial License
- Commercial License
This type of business license is required for companies and individuals that deal in services instead of products. They offer their professional services and opinions in fields like consulting, legal advice, or education. It’s among the most popular license types in the UAE.
Businesses under this license include law firms, media service providers, consulting agencies, and private tuitions.
This license is essential for businesses in the travel and hospitality sector. The UAE is already a huge attraction internationally for tourism, and this industry is only growing. Starting your business in this industry is a good business choice.
Businesses under the scope of this license include travel agencies, tour operators, and hotels.
This is a commercial permit that allows companies to conduct business operations such as manufacturing, production, or other industrial processes. There are many industrial areas in Sharjah where you can set up your factory or company.
Businesses working with this license include factories, food processing plants, and furniture manufacturers.
This type of commercial license is for businesses that are involved in trading goods or commercial activities like retail, wholesale, or import/export. You have to list the products that you will trade while establishing a business in Sharjah in the trade sector.
Examples of businesses under this license include supermarkets, shops, online retailers, or import/export companies.
Top Selling Sharjah Mainland
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
IBG is dedicated to serving and assisting you, exhausting all efforts while still being true to our streamlined processes and deadlines.
- 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
Required Documents
- Business Registration Application in Sharjah
- A detailed business plan copy.
- Memorandum of Association (MoA) and Articles of Association (AoA).
- Passport copies of all shareholders and management personnel.
- Legal authorization through Power of Attorney.
- Bank reference letters, if required.
- Resolution from the board of directors for foreign entities.
- Valid lease contract for office or facility.
- Comprehensive project feasibility study.
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 a Business Setup in Sharjah Mainland
1 Identify Your Business Activity
You need to choose the set of activities your business will perform. This step determines the type of license you need to acquire to set up your company.
2 Local Sponsor or LSA (if needed)
Some legal structures, like sole proprietorship, require a Local Service Agent (LSA). Acquire one if needed.
3 Choose the Legal Structure
Legal structures fulfill different needs and offer different perks. Select a structure that fits your business needs and goals.
4 Reserve a Trade Name
Reserve a unique trade name through the SEDD website or mobile app. The name must not be offensive to the norms of the society.
5 Apply for Initial Approval
Obtain initial approval from SEDD. This approval serves as a no-objection certificate and paves the way for the rest of the process.
6 Get the Required Documents
Prepare a Memorandum of Association (MOA) and other required documents for approval. Ensure the validity and correctness of each document.
7 Secure a Business Location
Find a suitable office for your business operations. Finalize the lease agreement once you find a suitable pick. Popular options include executive offices, industrial facilities, and shared offices.
8 Obtain External Approvals
It depends on your commercial activity, but additional approvals may be required from different departments or authorities. Get those if required.
9 Submit Documents and Fees
Gather all the required documents and submit them along with the fee. Make sure that the submission is in time, or it can cause delays or fines.
10 Receive Trade License
Once your application is approved, you will receive your trade license. Now, you can start your business operations in the market.
11 Open a Bank Account and Get Visas
Start a commercial bank account to streamline the company’s financial processes and get the visas for shareholders and employees to start company operations.
Benefits of Business Formation in Sharjah Mainland
Save big: no audits
Free capital flow
Scale teams easily
0% income & corp tax
UAE + global reach
Setup UAE-wide
Win gov projects
49% of UAE industry
Ports on 2 coasts
Hire & sponsor affordably
Key Information and Highlights for Company Registration
Cost Breakdown
Common Challenges
Common challenges include a lack of legal knowledge, securing office space, and choosing the right options. Get expert help for legal steps, choose a structure based on your goals, and secure office space early with local agents.
Hiring Consultancy
Business setup usually requires the help of a business consultancy. When exploring, you need to look for experience, knowledge, transparency, networking, and reputation. These qualities make the right pick for you.
Types of Business Entities in Sharjah Mainland
Limited Liability Company (LLC)
An LLC requires 2–50 shareholders. It offers limited liability for their share in capital. Since June 2021, 100% foreign ownership is allowed without a local sponsor.
Perfect For: Foreign investors, startups, and small-to-medium enterprises.
Partnership Company
A partnership company can be formed by two or more UAE nationals. They will be jointly liable based on their shares. This type is not available for foreign investors.
Perfect For: UAE nationals looking to jointly invest in local businesses.
Sole Proprietorship
A sole proprietorship is owned by a single individual. Foreign owners require a UAE national as an LSA to start a new company, but GCC and UAE citizens are exempt.
Perfect For: Professionals offering services like consultancy or freelance work.
Public/Private Shareholding
Under this structure, the share capital is divided into tradable shares. Liability is limited to share capital. Founding members sign the memorandum and articles of association.
Perfect For: Large-scale projects, companies planning IPOs, or seeking big investments.
Branch Companies
Allows UAE, GCC, and foreign companies to open branches in the Sharjah Mainland. These branches are an extension of the parent company and don’t require a different identity.
Perfect For: Companies expanding operations or establishing a presence in the Sharjah mainland.
Simplify the Process of Business Setup With IBG Consulting
Setting up a company in the Sharjah Mainland could be difficult. Especially for new business owners and foreign companies. It requires attention to detail, a good understanding of the laws, and effective networking. It's almost impossible to gather all these skills in one place. As a result, many startups and companies fail early or face costly delays during setup.
Solution? You need a business consultancy with years of experience, legal knowledge, and useful networks to experience a smooth business formation process. IBG Consultancy has it all and more, including suitable visa packages for a wide range of businesses. Contact IBG Consultancy for smooth Mainland Company Formation in Sharjah.
Solution? You need a business consultancy with years of experience, legal knowledge, and useful networks to experience a smooth business formation process. IBG Consultancy has it all and more, including suitable visa packages for a wide range of businesses. Contact IBG Consultancy for smooth Mainland Company Formation in Sharjah.
Frequently Asked Questions
Know more about the UAE.
How does a Sharjah mainland license differ from a free zone license?
A Sharjah’s mainland license allows businesses to operate anywhere in the UAE and work with government entities. Free zone companies, on the other hand, are restricted to operating within their zone or internationally.
What are the key steps for company registration in Sharjah?
The process of company registration includes identifying the nature of your business activity, choosing a legal structure, registering a trade name, and applying for the license. Work with business setup consultants in Sharjah for smoother processing.
Can I set up a company in Sharjah without a local partner?
Yes, company formation in Sharjah mainland allows 100% foreign ownership in specific industries. This eliminates the need for a local sponsor.
What types of business licenses are available in Sharjah?
Sharjah offers licenses such as commercial, professional, industrial, and tourism. The types of trade licenses depend on the business structure and activities.
What legal structures can I choose for my company in Sharjah?
The types of company structures include private shareholding company, public joint stock companies, LLCs, sole establishments, and branch offices. Each suits different business structure in Sharjah based on ownership and liability preferences.
What role does the Sharjah Department of Economic Development (SEDD) play in the setup?
The Sharjah Department of Economic Development oversees the process of business setup and issues licenses. They ensure compliance with local regulations.
Are there benefits to setting up in Sharjah instead of Dubai?
Yes, company setup in Sharjah often has lower costs and provides access to a growing business environment. Unlike Dubai, Sharjah is home to specialized zones like Sharjah Publishing City for media-related businesses.
How can business setup services help me to establish a business?
Business setup services in Sharjah simplify the process by handling paperwork, legal requirements, and approvals. Business setup consultants ensure you meet all regulations and avoid delays.
Can free zone and mainland companies collaborate?
Yes, free zone companies can partner with mainland business entities by meeting specific regulatory requirements. This allows both to benefit from UAE’s diverse business in the UAE opportunities.
What is the difference between public and private shareholding companies?
A public shareholding company allows shares to be traded publicly, ideal for larger firms. A private share-holding company limits shares to a few individuals or entities, often used for medium-scale ventures.
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