Setting Up a New Business in Sharjah Mainland

Company formation in Sharjah Mainland

Setting up a company in Sharjah mainland offers multiple advantages for business owners. Sharjah is strategically located, making it a hub for trade and commerce in the region. Additionally, businesses in Sharjah mainland are not subject to any restrictions on the number of visas available, allowing for more flexibility in hiring and expansion.

Why Choose Sharjah Mainland for Your Company Setup

Sharjah Mainland offers multiple advantages for business owners looking to establish their presence in the UAE. With its strategic location, excellent infrastructure, and business-friendly environment, Sharjah Mainland has become a popular choice for entrepreneurs and investors alike. Additionally, setting up a company in Sharjah Mainland allows you to tap into a diverse market with ample growth opportunities.

With its strategic location, easy access to ports, airports, and highways, as well as a diverse economy, Sharjah Mainland offers numerous advantages for entrepreneurs looking to establish their businesses. Company Formation in Sharjah Mainland offers foreign investors a gateway to a diverse and thriving market. 

Types of Companies Allowed in Sharjah Mainland

  • Sole Proprietorship: A sole proprietorship is a type of business entity that is owned and operated by a single individual. This is the simplest form of business structure and is ideal for small businesses and freelancers looking to establish a presence in Sharjah Mainland. Sole proprietorships offer full control and flexibility to the owner, but they also come with unlimited liability.
  • Limited Liability Company (LLC): An LLC is one of the most common types of companies in Sharjah Mainland. It is a hybrid business entity that combines the flexibility of a partnership with the limited liability of a corporation. LLCs require a minimum of two shareholders and offer protection of personal assets from business debts and obligations.
  • Partnership: A partnership is a business structure where two or more individuals share ownership and management of the company. There are two main types of partnerships in Sharjah Mainland: general partnerships and limited partnerships. General partnerships involve equal sharing of profits and losses, while limited partnerships have one or more partners with limited liability.
  • Branch Office: Foreign companies looking to expand their operations to Sharjah Mainland can establish a branch office. A branch office operates as an extension of the parent company and is subject to the laws and regulations of the UAE. Branch offices allow companies to conduct business in Sharjah Mainland without the need for a local sponsor.
  • Representative Office: A representative office is a type of company that is limited to promoting the parent company’s products or services in Sharjah Mainland. Representative offices are not allowed to engage in profit-generating activities and are required to have a local sponsor. This type of company is a cost-effective way for foreign companies to establish a presence in Sharjah Mainland.

Sharjah Mainland offers a variety of options for individuals and businesses looking to establish a company in the region. Whether you are a foreign investor, a solo entrepreneur, or a professional service provider, there is a type of company that suits your needs and requirements. It is essential to understand the legal and financial implications of each type of company before making a decision. 

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Documents Required for Business Registration in Sharjah Mainland

The process of business registration in Sharjah Mainland requires careful attention to detail and the submission of essential documents. By ensuring that you have all the necessary paperwork in order, you can expedite the registration process and start your business operations smoothly. Below is a list of the essential documents you will need to gather before starting the business registration in Sharjah Mainland:

  1. Passport Copies: You will need to submit copies of the passports of all shareholders and partners involved in the business.
  2. Emirates ID Copy: A copy of the Emirates ID of all shareholders and partners is also required for business registration in Sharjah Mainland.
  3. Business Plan: A comprehensive business plan outlining your business activities, target market, and financial projections is essential for the registration process.
  4. Memorandum of Association (MOA): The MOA is a legal document that outlines the company’s objectives, structure, and operational guidelines. It must be notarized by a local authority.
  5. Tenancy Contract: A tenancy contract for your business premises in Sharjah Mainland is required to complete the registration process.
  6. NOC from the Government: Depending on the nature of your business, you may need to obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the relevant government authorities.
  7. Trade Name Reservation Certificate: Before registering your business, you must reserve a trade name for your company. The Trade Name Reservation Certificate is mandatory for business registration in Sharjah Mainland.

How to Set Up a Company in Sharjah Mainland

Sharjah Mainland, located in the heart of the city, offers a strategic location for businesses looking to establish themselves in the thriving business landscape of the UAE. With its investor-friendly policies and business-friendly environment, Sharjah Mainland is an attractive choice for entrepreneurs looking to start a company in the region. Setting up a company in Sharjah Mainland involves several steps, including:

  • Choosing a company name and legal structure
  • Obtaining the necessary approvals and licenses
  • Renting office space
  • Opening a corporate bank account
  • Registering for VAT (if applicable)

One of the main advantages of setting up a company in Sharjah Mainland is the ability to conduct business with the local market without any restrictions. Unlike free zones, companies in Sharjah Mainland can engage in business activities across the UAE without the need for a local sponsor. Additionally, businesses in Sharjah Mainland can benefit from 100% repatriation of profits and capital.

Types of Licenses Allowed in Sharjah Mainland

  1. Commercial License: This type of license is issued to companies engaged in trading activities, such as buying and selling goods. It allows businesses to import, export, distribute, and store items within the UAE.
  2. Industrial License: Businesses involved in manufacturing, processing, or industrial activities need to obtain an industrial license. This license permits companies to set up factories and production units in Sharjah Mainland.
  3. Professional License: Individuals or companies providing professional services, such as consultancy, legal services, or medical services, require a professional license. This license is necessary for practicing regulated professions in Sharjah Mainland.
  4. Tourism License: Companies operating in the tourism sector, such as travel agencies, hotels, or tour operators, must obtain a tourism license. This license allows businesses to offer tourism-related services in Sharjah Mainland.
  5. Service License: Businesses offering specialized services, such as maintenance, cleaning, or consultancy services, need to apply for a service license. This license is essential for companies providing non-trading services in Sharjah Mainland.

Understanding the types of licenses allowed in Sharjah Mainland is important for entrepreneurs looking to start a business in this dynamic emirate. Whether you are planning to set up a commercial, professional, industrial, tourism, e-commerce, or general trading business, knowing the specific requirements for each type of license is key to a successful business setup in Sharjah Mainland.

Benefits of Company Setup in Sharjah Mainland

  • 100% Ownership: One of the main advantages of setting up a business in Sharjah Mainland is that you can have full ownership of your company. This means you have complete control over your business decisions and operations.
  • Strategic Location: Sharjah Mainland is strategically located, making it an ideal base for businesses looking to access markets in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.
  • Diverse Business Opportunities: Sharjah Mainland offers a wide range of business opportunities across various sectors, allowing entrepreneurs to choose a business that aligns with their interests and expertise.
  • Access to UAE Markets: Operating in Sharjah Mainland gives businesses access to the UAE market, which is known for its strong economy and business-friendly environment.

Sharjah, one of the seven emirates in the United Arab Emirates, is known for its business-friendly environment and strategic location. With its thriving economy and supportive government policies, Sharjah offers numerous opportunities for entrepreneurs looking to start or expand their businesses. Additionally, the emirate boasts a stable political climate, world-class infrastructure, and a skilled workforce, making it an attractive destination for investors.

Timeline and Costs Involved in Company Registration in Sharjah Mainland

Timeline for company registration in Sharjah Mainland can vary depending on the type of company you wish to establish. However, in general, the process can be completed within 1 to 2 weeks. Here is a breakdown of the typical timeline for company registration:

  • Step 1: Reserve a Trade Name (1 day): The first step is to reserve a unique trade name for your company, which can be done online through the Sharjah Economic Development Department (SEDD) portal. This process usually takes just one day.
  • Step 2: Drafting of Legal Documents (2 days): Once the trade name is approved, you will need to draft the necessary legal documents, including the Memorandum of Association (MOA) and the local service agent agreement. This step can take around 2 days to complete.
  • Step 3: Submission of Documents and Payment of Fees (3 days): After preparing the legal documents, you will need to submit them to the SEDD along with the required fees. The approval process usually takes around 3 days.
  • Step 4: Obtain Initial Approval (1 day): Once the documents are submitted, you will receive initial approval from the SEDD, allowing you to proceed with the next steps of company registration.
  • Step 5: Payment of License Fees and Issuance of License (1 day): Finally, you will need to pay the remaining license fees and collect your business license from the SEDD. This typically takes just one day to complete.

Opening a Bank Account for Business in Sharjah Mainland

When opening a business bank account in Sharjah Mainland, you will need to provide certain documents to the bank. Having a business bank account is essential for several reasons. Firstly, it helps you to establish a clear separation between your personal and business finances, making it easier to track your business expenses and income.  Lastly, having a business bank account can help you to streamline your financial operations, making it easier to manage your cash flow, pay invoices, and track your financial performance. These documents typically include:

  • A valid trade license issued by the Department of Economic Development in Sharjah
  • A copy of your passport or Emirates ID
  • Proof of address for the business, such as a utility bill or tenancy contract
  • Memorandum and articles of association for the company
  • Details of the company’s shareholders and directors
  • A business plan outlining the nature of your business, its activities, and financial projections
  • Any other relevant documents requested by the bank

Steps to Setting Up a Company in Sharjah Mainland

Setting up a company in Sharjah mainland with us is a smart choice for entrepreneurs and businesses looking to establish a presence in the UAE. With our expertise, experience, and comprehensive services, we can make the company formation process smooth and hassle-free for you. 

  1. Initial Consultation: We start by understanding your business needs and objectives to determine the most suitable company structure for you.
  2. Choosing a Trade Name: Select a unique and appropriate trade name for your company, keeping in mind the guidelines set by the authorities.
  3. Obtaining Approvals: We help you obtain the necessary approvals from the relevant government authorities to proceed with the company formation process.
  4. Drafting Legal Documents: Our legal team will prepare all the required legal documents, such as the Memorandum of Association and Articles of Association.
  5. License Application: We assist you in submitting the license application and fulfilling all the requirements to obtain the necessary permits.

Contact us today to get started on your business journey in Sharjah mainland!

To Know the Exact Set of Documents required to set up your company in Sharjah Mainland, talk to our business setup experts in Sharjah.

Frequently Asked Questions

An LLC (Limited Liability Company) is a common business structure in Sharjah mainland. It requires a UAE national sponsor holding 51% ownership, while the foreign investor holds the remaining 49%.

Advantages include access to a larger local market, ability to bid for government contracts, and a wider range of business activities compared to free zones.

Yes, with a mainland license, you can conduct business not only in Sharjah but also across the UAE

The timeline can vary based on factors such as the type of business and the completeness of your documentation. It usually takes a few weeks to a couple of months.

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