Setup Your Company in Sharjah Mainland

Setting up your company in Sharjah Mainland offers several advantages, including access to a thriving business environment in the UAE. With diverse business activities allowed and the support of local infrastructure, Sharjah Mainland provides opportunities for growth and expansion. However, it’s crucial to navigate the process carefully, ensuring compliance with local regulations and securing a reliable local sponsor. By leveraging these resources effectively, businesses can establish a strong foundation for success in the dynamic Middle Eastern market.

Business Setup In Sharjah Mainland

Our business setup consultants in Sharjah sort everything out for you, which makes starting a business in Sharjah extremely simple and convenient. At Brightlink, we assist multinational companies as well as SMEs with getting their business licenses in Sharjah

START YOUR BUSINESS IN DUBAI MAINLAND TODAY!

Advantages of Business Setup In Sharjah Mainland

Ease Of Currency Regulations

Sharjah does not have restrictions on the use of certain currencies, making it easier to conduct financial transactions.

Freedom To Operate Anywhere

Sharjah Mainland companies can operate anywhere in the UAE, including free zones and outside the country.

Ability To Work With Government Bodies

You can also bid on government contracts, giving them the opportunity to work on high-risk, high-return projects.

Financial Viability

Mainland companies enjoy the same benefits as free zone companies, including tax exemption and no minimum capital requirement.

No Visa Limitations

UAE mainland companies can easily expand their visa quotas as long as they have the physical space.

Stronger Market Presence

Open physical offices anywhere in the UAE. This can help you build relationships with local customers and partners and give you a competitive edge.

No Mandatory Audits

Businesses in Sharjah do not have to be audited, freeing up time and resources for other business activities.

Licensing For Setting Up In Sharjah Mainland

The Sharjah Economic Department, the prestigious authority in charge of issuing business licenses, plays a crucial role in the changing landscape of Sharjah Mainland. Securing the right license becomes the cornerstone of your enterprise.

Sharjah offers three distinct types of licenses tailored to align seamlessly with your company’s essence:

Professional License

For individual entrepreneurs offering professional services like consultancy, event management, and investment services.

Commercial License

For trading companies involved in import, export, and e-commerce.

Industrial License

For manufacturing, processing, packaging, assembling, and fabrication businesses.

Flourishing Sectors In Sharjah Mainland

Trading & Retail

Beauty Parlours

Cleaning Services

Hotels & Tourism

Healthcare And Medical Services

Education And Training

Manufacturing And Industrial

Professional And Business Services

Get A Sharjah Mainland Business License For Multiple Opportunities
And 100% Ownership With Brightlink.

Types Of Companies In Sharjah Mainland

Partnership Company

Formed by two or more UAE national shareholders. The joint liability is based on individual shareholding. Foreign investors can’t open a partnership company.

Limited Liability Company

It needs 2 to 50 shareholders to form an LLC. the maximum liability of each shareholder is their respective capital share. Since June 2021, the government has permitted 100% foreign ownership; so a local sponsor is not required.

Local Service Agent License Company / Sole Proprietorship

It is a sole proprietorship business that needs one single owner. Foreign investors need a UAE national to become local service agents. However, the LSA has no right over the company’s share and ownership.

Branch Companies

Existing companies are allowed to open their branches in Sharjah. The UAE, foreign, and GCC companies are eligible. It’s better if you seek help from a business setup consultant in Sharjah.

Public / Private Shareholding Company

A shareholding company divides the capital into tradable shares of equal value. Each partner’s liability is the value of their shares only. Private shareholding companies in Sharjah follow the rules set up by Public Joint Stock Companies. The people who sign the memorandum and article of association will automatically become the company’s founding members.

Steps In Setting Up A Business In
Sharjah Mainland

Navigating the legal paperwork process can be challenging for those unfamiliar with the UAE legal system. This is where seeking assistance from a reputable consultancy firm becomes crucial.

Outlined below are the essential steps for mainland company formation in Sharjah:

Gather all the required documents specific to your business activity, as the requirements may vary.

Present three different name options for your business, ensuring that the chosen name is unique, free from any indecent language, and does not contain God’s name in Arabic or English.

Finalize the nature of your business activity, as this will determine the specific type of business license required.

Once you’ve settled on a trade name, register it online with the DED.

Officially file your license application with the Department of Economic Development

Prepare and submit all required documents, including your company registration form and chosen name, to the DED

Get the Memorandum of Association (MOA) and lease agreement signed, sealed, and notarized by a public notary. Additionally, you need to secure an office space and have the lease agreement notarized.

Sharjah offers three types of business licenses -Industrial License, Commercial License, and Professional License. Choose the appropriate one and pay the relevant fees.

Additional approvals may be necessary depending on your business type. You’ll obtain your business license after fulfilling all requirements and paying the fees.

Obtaining a Sharjah establishment card is essential for legal compliance and conducting business activities in the emirate.

If you plan to hire employees, you’ll need to obtain an Entry Vis a and work permit from the Ministry of Labor on their behalf.

Process the necessary paper work . Your local sponsor or partner must complete this procedure in the UAE.

Following the issuance of the trade license, the next step is to open a corporate bank account. A digital bank account makes the whole process
much easier and can usually be completed within a few days.

Essential Documents For Sharjah Mainland Company Set Up

Investors are required to submit particular documents. The mandatory paperwork needed to establish a business in Sharjah is as follows :

  • Completed application for business registration in Sharjah
  • A comprehensive business plan
  • National ID and family book photocopies
  • 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

Frequently Asked Questions

Any individual or entity, including foreign nationals, can set up a company in Sharjah Mainland. However, a local sponsor (UAE national or company) is typically required, except for professional companies where a local service agent suffices.

Common legal structures include Limited Liability Company (LLC), sole proprietorship, branch of a foreign company, and civil company (for professionals).

Steps include choosing a business activity, securing a local sponsor, drafting legal documents (like Memorandum of Association), registering with the Department of Economic Development (DED), leasing office space, obtaining licenses and permits, opening a bank account, and processing visas.

Benefits include access to a diverse economy, strategic location, business-friendly regulations, and infrastructure support.

A local sponsor is required for most business types and holds at least 51% ownership in the company. They provide support in navigating local regulations and business practices.

The timeline can vary based on the business type and completeness of documentation but typically ranges from a few weeks to a couple of months.

Costs include government fees, sponsor fees, office rent, legal fees, and other operational expenses. Costs can vary widely depending on the business size and type.

Generally, foreign ownership is limited to 49%, with 51% ownership required by a local sponsor or service agent. Exceptions apply to free zones and certain sectors where 100% foreign ownership is allowed

Ongoing requirements include annual license renewals, submission of financial statements, compliance with UAE labor laws, and other regulatory obligations.

It is advisable to seek guidance from local business consultants, legal advisors, or through government entities like the Department of Economic Development (DED) for accurate and timely information.

Ready to Setup Your Business in Dubai? Partner with Brightlink Consulting Today!