What is the best part? Sharjah has many benefits for businesses. Zero taxes on corporate (below an income of AED 375,000 ) or personal income, world-class infrastructure, and a supportive regulatory climate are all part of the package. However, there’s a challenge—figuring out the licensing process can be daunting, especially if it’s your first time.
Here are a few more licenses for specific types of businesses:
E-commerce License: For online stores or businesses that sell digital services.
Domestic Licenses (Eitimad): For UAE nationals who want to start small or home-based businesses.
Entrepreneurial Business Permit: A great option for startups and small businesses with big ideas.
Businesses in SHAMS enjoy significant cost savings.
Selling products? Go for a commercial license.
Offering services? A professional license is your best bet.
Making products? You’ll need an industrial license.
Still unsure? It’s always a good idea to talk to an expert business consultant to make sure you’re on the right track.
5. Public or Private Shareholding Companies
These types of companies are ideal for businesses planning to grow big. A public shareholding company allows you to sell shares of your company to the public. A private shareholding company, on the other hand, limits the number of shareholders but keeps things private.
Picking a legal structure isn’t just about what sounds cool—it’s about what fits your needs. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Number of Shareholders
How many people will own the business? If it’s just you, something like a sole proprietorship might work. If you have a group of investors, consider a shareholding company.
Business Liability and Ownership Rights
Do you want full control of the business, or are you okay sharing it? Some structures make you responsible for everything, while others split duties and risks between multiple owners.
First, decide what your business will do. Will you sell products, offer services, or maybe manufacture goods? Next, choose a legal structure like an LLC or a sole proprietorship. This will decide how your business runs and who owns it.
For some businesses, you may need a local sponsor to meet the rules. Sponsors are UAE nationals who help with paperwork. But here’s the good news—since 2021, many businesses can now have 100% foreign ownership. That means you can control your company completely!
Pick a name for your business and make sure no one else is using it. You’ll need to reserve it through the SEDD (Sharjah Economic Development Department). The name should match your business activity and follow the rules.
You’ll need permissions to start your business. Apply to the SEDD and other authorities if needed. For example, if your business involves banking, you may need approval from the Central Bank.
Get all your paperwork ready! The most important ones include:
(i) Memorandum of Association (MOA), which outlines your business goals and ownership details.
(ii) Lease agreement for your office space, showing where your business is located.
(iii)Make sure these are notarized and official.
Once your documents are ready, it’s time to pay the licensing fees. Submit everything to the SEDD for review. Double-check that you’ve included all required paperwork so there are no delays.
Once approved, you’ll receive your trade license! This is an official document that lets you legally run your business. If your business needs extra permits (like for food or healthcare), apply for them now.
The final step is to get an Establishment Card. This card allows your business to sponsor visas for you, your employees, or other business owners. Now you’re all set to grow your team and start operating!
Starting your business in Sharjah takes effort, but each step brings you closer to making your dream real. Follow these steps, and you’ll be ready to hit the ground running!
To get a business license in Sharjah, you need to prepare some important documents. Don’t worry—it’s not as hard as it sounds. Here’s a list of what you’ll need and why they matter.
The Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AoA) explain your business’s rules and how it will operate. They’re really important and need to be official.
You may discuss your case with us to check your eligibility.
Write Everything Down
Make a list of all the costs you’ll need to pay. This will give you a clear picture.
Save for Surprises
Keep some extra money aside for unexpected fees or expenses.
Focus on What’s Necessary
Spend money on what you really need to get started. Fancy furniture can wait!
Ask for Help
Talk to a business expert if you’re unsure about costs.
Sharjah Mainland License gives you lots of amazing advantages. Here’s why it’s a smart choice for your business:
If you want to sell goods, run a shop, or import and export items, this sector is perfect for you.
Sharjah has many factories, so it’s a great place to make and produce things like clothes, furniture, or even machines.
Technology is growing fast! You can set up a business in software, apps, or other cool tech services.
With lots of new buildings and projects, this sector is full of opportunities for those who love real estate.
Doctors, clinics, and hospitals are always in demand, making this a busy and rewarding sector.
Sharjah is beautiful and attracts lots of tourists, so hotels, restaurants, and travel services can do really well here.
From advertising to creating videos, there’s a big need for creative businesses in Sharjah.
If you’re interested in helping the planet, Sharjah supports green businesses like solar energy or recycling services.
These industries are thriving in Sharjah, so you can find the perfect opportunity to start something amazing!
If it’s your first time setting up a business, figuring out the rules from the Sharjah Economic Development Department (SEDD) can feel a little overwhelming. The good news? First Idea Consultant LLC is here to guide you every step of the way.
There are some important rules with fancy names like UBO (Ultimate Beneficial Ownership), ESR (Economic Substance Regulations), and AML (Anti-Money Laundering). These help make sure all businesses run safely and honestly. If this sounds complicated, don’t worry! We can break it down for you in super simple terms. Contact us to learn more.
If it’s your first time setting up a business, figuring out the rules from the Sharjah Economic Development Department (SEDD) can feel a little overwhelming. The good news? First Idea Consultant LLC is here to guide you every step of the way.
Opening a business bank account is a straightforward process when you’re prepared and choose the right financial partner to support your company’s needs. Keep all your documents ready, and if you’re not sure what to do next, we’ve got your back. The team at First Idea Consultant LLC can help make this process simple and hassle-free.
Challenges are just part of the adventure, and with First Idea Consultant LLC by your side, you’ll feel confident and ready to conquer them. Contact us today to start turning your business dreams into reality!
Setting up a business involves many steps, and it’s easy to make mistakes if you’re doing it alone. That’s why it’s a great idea to work with experienced business setup consultants. We know all the rules and can help you avoid costly errors. Think of us as your business coaches guiding you to win the business game!
It usually takes about a week or two to get your business license. But this can depend on the type of business and if all your paperwork is ready.
No, not for all types! Foreigners can fully own some businesses, but others might need a local sponsor to help with the process.
Yes, you can! A Sharjah Mainland license lets you run your business across the entire UAE.
Businesses in the UAE follow some rules. For example, some might need to pay VAT (Value Added Tax) or corporate taxes. But don't worry – businesses with licenses in Sharjah often get helpful tax benefits!
Renewing your trade license is easy! Just make sure you have all the updated documents and pay the renewal fee on time. If you’re not sure about something, you can get help to make it even simpler.
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