Sharjah, the third-largest emirate in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), is a thriving economy that has become a magnet for global investors. Its strategic location, excellent connectivity, cost-effective living conditions, and business-friendly policies, including 100% foreign ownership, make it an ideal destination for business setup. This article provides a detailed guide on obtaining mainland licenses in Sharjah, regulated by the Sharjah Department of Economic Development (SEDD).

Sharjah is renowned for its industrial prowess and is also a hub for educational activities, housing some of the region’s best educational institutions. The emirate has received the Health City recognition from the World Health Organisation (WHO) for its stringent curbs on alcohol consumption. Business setup consultants in Sharjah can provide more information on various aspects of company formation.

The first step in setting up a business in Sharjah mainland is obtaining a trade license. Operating a business without a trade license in Sharjah is a punishable offense. The SEDD issues different types of licenses based on the nature of activities:

Investors need to identify an appropriate legal structure to successfully complete the process of business setup in Sharjah mainland. The legal structure is determined by the number of shareholders in the proposed company. The types of companies that can be established in the Sharjah mainland include Limited Liability Company, Partnership Company, Local Service Agent License Company / Sole Proprietorship, Public/Private Shareholding Company, and Branch Companies.

The process of business setup in Sharjah mainland follows a series of highly streamlined steps set out by the SEDD. These steps include identifying business activity, assigning a Local Sponsor/LSA if applicable, determining an appropriate legal structure, reserving a company name, registering with SEDD for initial approval, applying for the respective license, drafting Memorandum of Agreement (MoA), signing a lease agreement for office space/facility, obtaining external approvals for special activities, paying the license fee, and receiving the respective trade license.

Investors need to submit specific documents while applying for a business license in Sharjah. These documents include an application for business registration, a copy of the business plan, duly attested & notarised MoA and Articles of Association (AOA), passport copies of all partners and managers, Power of Attorney, bank reference letters if applicable, board resolution for foreign companies, lease agreement, and feasibility report of the project.

PW offers comprehensive services covering essential requirements such as visa processing, document drafting, government liaising, bank account opening, and more. Their team of business setup consultants, PRO service executives, and compliance advisers ensures a hassle-free company incorporation process in Sharjah.