Sharjah Mainland
Are you facing difficulties in obtaining a business license in Sharjah Mainland? If so, our skilled consultants specializing in business setup in Sharjah can be the perfect solution to fulfill your goals.
Sharjah, a thriving emirate in the United Arab Emirates, consistently introduces new opportunities for progress through its government initiatives. Setting up a business in Sharjah mainland is particularly advantageous for service-oriented and industrial sectors.
This location is highly regarded for its strategic positioning, connecting major trading zones, and providing a cost-effective approach to commercializing your business activities. It also stimulates the marine and shipping sectors of the country, making Sharjah an attractive choice for company formation.
Our consultants take care of all the necessary arrangements, making the process of starting a business in Sharjah incredibly simple and convenient. At Startright Consulting, we assist both multinational corporations and small and medium-sized enterprises in obtaining their business licenses in Sharjah.
The Ideal Business Hub: Sharjah Mainland
- Elimination of Mandatory Audits - Businesses operating in Sharjah are not obligated to undergo audits, allowing them to allocate their time and resources towards other crucial business activities.
- Simplified Currency Regulations - Sharjah boasts a favorable business environment as it does not impose restrictions on the utilization of specific currencies, facilitating seamless financial transactions.
- Unrestricted Visa Quotas - UAE mainland companies have the flexibility to expand their visa quotas effortlessly, provided they possess the necessary physical space.
- Financial Stability - Mainland companies in Sharjah enjoy equivalent advantages to those of free zone companies, such as tax exemption and the absence of a minimum capital requirement.
- Operational Freedom - Sharjah Mainland companies possess the liberty to conduct business operations anywhere within the UAE, including free zones and even beyond the country's borders.
- Enhanced Market Presence - Establishing physical offices in various locations across the UAE enables Sharjah Mainland companies to cultivate strong relationships with local customers and partners, ultimately granting them a competitive advantage.
- Collaboration with Government Entities - Additionally, these companies have the opportunity to participate in government contract bidding, allowing them to engage in high-risk, high-return projects.
Setting Up a Business in Sharjah Mainland: A Step-by-Step Guide
Sharjah, with its strategic location, cost-effectiveness, and supportive business environment, is emerging as a prime destination for entrepreneurs and businesses in the UAE. If you’re considering setting up shop in Sharjah Mainland, here’s a comprehensive guide to navigate the process:
Identify the nature of your business and the specific activities you’ll be involved in. This will determine the type of license you need.
Decide on the legal structure for your business, such as Sole Proprietorship, Limited Liability Company (LLC), or Branch Office. Each structure has its own advantages and limitations regarding ownership, liability, and taxes.
Choose a unique and relevant trade name for your business and check its availability through the Sharjah Department of Economic Development (SEDD).
Submit an application for initial approval to SEDD, along with the required documents like your business plan, proposed trade name, and chosen legal structure.
This legal document outlines the company’s structure, share capital, and governance rules. You can draft it yourself or seek assistance from a legal professional.
Unless your business falls under specific categories exempt from LSA requirement, appoint a UAE national as your LSA. They act as your legal representative and liaison with government authorities.
Depending on your business activity, you might need additional approvals from other government agencies like the Ministry of Health, Department of Labor, or Environment Department.
Find and lease a suitable office space in Sharjah Mainland. Ensure it complies with zoning regulations and your business needs.
Once you have all the necessary documents and approvals, submit them to SEDD along with the required fees for your trade license.
Upon final approval, you can collect your official trade license, which allows you to legally operate your business in Sharjah Mainland.
Thriving Industries in Sharjah Mainland
- Trade and Retail
- Beauty Salons
- Cleaning Solutions
- Hospitality and Tourism
- Healthcare and Medical Facilities
- Educational Institutions and Training Centers
- Manufacturing and Industrial Sectors
- Professional and Business Support Services
Licensing Requirements for Establishing a Business in Sharjah Mainland
The Sharjah Economic Department, a renowned authority responsible for granting business licenses, plays a vital role in shaping the business environment in Sharjah Mainland. Obtaining the appropriate license is fundamental to the success of your enterprise.
Sharjah offers three distinct categories of licenses that are specifically designed to align seamlessly with the nature of your company:
01
Industrial License
This license is suitable for businesses engaged in manufacturing, processing, packaging, assembling, and fabrication.
02
Commercial License
This license is intended for trading companies involved in import, export, and e-commerce activities.
03
Professional License
This license is tailored for individual entrepreneurs offering professional services such as consultancy, event management, and investment services.
Types of Companies in Sharjah Mainland
Sharjah Mainland offers a diverse range of company structures to cater to various business needs and aspirations. Here’s a breakdown of the five main types you can consider, along with visuals for better understanding:
01
Partnership Company
- Two or more partners combine resources and expertise to run a business.
- Profits and losses are shared according to the agreement between partners.
- Can be either general (unlimited liability) or limited (liability capped at partner contributions).
- Suitable for businesses with strong trust and collaboration between partners.
02
Limited Liability Company (LLC)
- Most popular structure in Sharjah Mainland.
- Offers limited liability to shareholders (maximum of 50).
- Foreigners can own up to 49% of shares with a UAE national holding the majority.
- Provides flexibility in ownership and management structure.
- Ideal for entrepreneurs, startups, and medium-sized businesses.
03
Partnership Company
Local Service Agent (LSA) License Company:
- A UAE national acts as the company’s official representative to government authorities.
- Required for most businesses in Sharjah Mainland unless exempted by specific regulations.
- Offers limited liability to the owner.
- Suitable for foreign investors seeking to establish a presence in Sharjah.
Sole Proprietorship:
- Single owner has complete control over the business.
- Owner bears unlimited liability for business debts and obligations.
- Simple and cost-effective structure for low-risk businesses.
- Can be converted into an LLC as the business grows.
04
Public / Private Shareholding Company
Public Joint Stock Company (PJSC):
- Capital divided into shares traded publicly on the stock exchange.
- Requires minimum of 7 shareholders and AED 10 million capital.
- Offers access to public funding and potential for significant growth.
- Suitable for large-scale businesses with diverse ownership.
Private Joint Stock Company (PrJSC):
- Similar to PJSC but shares not publicly traded.
- Requires minimum of 3 shareholders and AED 3 million capital.
- Provides flexibility in ownership and control while maintaining limited liability.
- Ideal for family-owned businesses or venture capital investments.
05
Branch Companies
- Foreign companies can establish a branch office in Sharjah Mainland to operate under their parent company’s license.
- Allows access to the local market and resources without incorporating a separate legal entity.
- Subject to specific regulations and restrictions depending on the industry and parent company’s structure.
- Suitable for established foreign companies seeking expansion in the UAE.
Embrace the world of business possibilities with Startright Consulting. Contact us today and let us guide you towards establishing your successful offshore company in Sharjah.
Necessary Documents for Setting Up a Mainland Company in Sharjah
Investors must provide specific documentation. The obligatory paperwork required for establishing a business in Sharjah includes:
- A fully filled out application for business registration in Sharjah.
- A detailed business plan.
- Photocopies of the national ID and family book.
- Duly attested and notarized Memorandum of Association (MoA) and Articles of Association (AOA).
- Passport copies of all partners and managers involved in the company.
- Power of Attorney.
- Bank reference letters.
- Proof of residence.
- Board resolution for foreign companies.
- Lease agreement.