Company Formation in Sharjah Free Zone 🥇
Sharjah Free Zone is one of the most promising business destinations in the UAE. It attracts investors who want to start and grow businesses with ease. With a strong infrastructure and diverse industries, it’s become a hub for trade, logistics, manufacturing, and services. Entrepreneurs from around the world choose Sharjah because it offers an affordable, stable, and business-friendly environment.
The free zones in Sharjah allow 100% foreign ownership, zero income tax, and easy access to ports and airports. These benefits make Company Formation in Sharjah Free Zone a great opportunity for startups and established firms. Setting up a business here requires understanding of regulations, licensing, and compliance. Many companies work with professionals like Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing to ensure smooth registration and legal compliance.
Understanding Sharjah Free Zone and Its Importance
Sharjah’s free zones play a major role in strengthening the UAE’s economy. They encourage innovation, foreign investment, and job creation. With advanced infrastructure, competitive pricing, and simplified rules, Sharjah offers a perfect base for regional and global operations.
The emirate provides investors with direct access to markets across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. Companies here also benefit from the supportive policies of the Sharjah Economic Development Department. These policies make it easier to acquire permits, obey labor laws, and maintain safety standards.
Every Sharjah free zone is designed to meet the needs of different industries. Whether you want to run a logistics company, manage a publishing house, or build a tech startup, there’s a free zone that fits your goal.
Which Are the Free Zones in Sharjah?
Sharjah hosts several specialized free zones, each offering unique features, facilities, and licensing options. Here are the most prominent ones:
1. Hamriyah Free Zone
Established in 1995, Hamriyah Free Zone (HAFZA) is one of the largest industrial hubs in the UAE. It offers:
- 100% foreign ownership
- No import or export duties
- Easy access to ports, sea routes, and highways
HAFZA is ideal for businesses in manufacturing, industrial production, and trading. The zone also includes labor accommodations and customs services on-site.
2. Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF Zone)
SAIF Zone was founded in 1995 near Sharjah International Airport. It’s known for excellent connectivity and infrastructure.
Key advantages include:
- Full foreign ownership
- No income tax or import duties
- Quick company registration and visa processing
- Access to office spaces, warehouses, and plots
SAIF Zone suits companies in aviation, logistics, and light manufacturing industries.
3. Sharjah Media City Free Zone (SHAMS)
SHAMS, launched in 2017, supports creative, digital, and media enterprises.
Highlights include:
- Flexible licensing for media, IT, and advertising
- Affordable setup packages for freelancers and startups
- Fast approval process
- Convenient location with access to major transport routes
It’s a dynamic environment that promotes innovation and content creation.
4. Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone (SPC)
SPC Free Zone, established in 2017, caters to publishing, printing, and digital media firms.
Main benefits:
- Specialized printing and publishing facilities
- Access to global distribution networks
- Ideal for book production and e-content businesses
SPC provides a creative platform for writers, publishers, and content developers.
5. Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park (SRTIP)
SRTIP is designed to promote innovation and technology research. It supports collaboration between academic institutions and industries.
Focus areas include:
- Smart manufacturing
- Renewable energy
- Water management
- Digital transformation
SRTIP is a perfect choice for R&D-driven organizations and tech startups.
Advantages of Business Setup in Sharjah Free Zone
Setting up a company in Sharjah Free Zone gives entrepreneurs several strategic benefits.
Key advantages include:
- Import and Customs Benefits: Goods imported into the free zone enjoy duty exemptions.
- No Currency Restrictions: You can freely move capital and profits.
- Full Foreign Ownership: No need for local partners.
- Single License for Multiple Activities: Flexibility to conduct various business operations under one license.
- Zero Taxes: No corporate or personal income tax for qualifying entities.
- Access to Key Transport Hubs: Proximity to major ports and airports.
- Diverse Business Opportunities: From logistics to media, a range of industries can flourish.
These benefits make Sharjah a preferred choice for entrepreneurs looking for a cost-effective and flexible setup.
Licenses for Company Formation in Sharjah Free Zone
When setting up your company, selecting the right license type is crucial. It defines the nature of your business activities and ensures regulatory compliance.
- Commercial License: For companies engaged in buying, selling, or trading goods.
- Trading License: For businesses involved in import, export, and wholesale activities.
- Professional License: For service-based firms like law, accounting, or consulting companies.
Each license allows businesses to legally operate within their specific category in the free zone.
Steps for Business Setup in Sharjah Free Zone
Setting up a business in Sharjah is simple if you follow the right steps.
Here’s the process:
- Choose a Free Zone: Select the zone that suits your business model.
- Decide on Business Activity & Trade Name: Ensure your name complies with the authority’s guidelines.
- Prepare Documents: Collect passport copies, shareholder details, and a business plan.
- Submit Application: Apply with all documents to the chosen free zone.
- Pay Fees: Pay the registration and license charges.
- Set Up Office: Choose between flexi-desks, private offices, or warehouses.
- Obtain License: Once approved, collect your business license and start operations.
With support from Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing, entrepreneurs can complete this process efficiently.
Process for Securing a Business License in Sharjah Free Zone
The process includes three key phases: Initial Approval, Registration, and Visa Licensing.
1. Initial Approval
You’ll need to submit:
- Business plan
- Application form
- Passport copies of shareholders
- Signature specimens
- NOC from current sponsor (if applicable)
- Audited reports or bank reference letters
Freelancers require fewer documents, including:
- CV
- Bank reference
- Application form
2. Registration
Once approval is granted, you must:
- Pay registration and license fees
- Submit notarized documents like Power of Attorney, Memorandum of Association, and Board Resolution
- Provide share capital details and photos of the manager/director
3. Licensing & Visa Process
The free zone prepares a lease contract before issuing the trade license. Visa processing begins once your license is active. Some business activities may need external approvals from other authorities.
Business Liquidation in Sharjah Free Zone
If a company wishes to close, the liquidation process involves:
- Paying outstanding dues
- Canceling visas
- Submitting final audit reports
- Returning the license to the authority
This ensures compliance and prevents future liabilities. Working with Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing makes this process seamless and legally sound.
Company Formation Services in Sharjah Free Zone
Company Formation in Sharjah Free Zone creates opportunities for both startups and global enterprises. Businesses enjoy freedom of ownership, tax exemptions, and access to global markets. With advanced infrastructure and cost-effective options, Sharjah offers the right platform for expansion.
Free zones like SAIF, HAFZA, and SHAMS continue to support industries such as trading, logistics, publishing, and research. The structured registration process, flexible leases, and friendly policies make Sharjah a key contributor to the UAE’s diversified economy.
Why Choose Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing for Sharjah Free Zone Setup
When setting up a company in Sharjah Free Zone, choosing the right consultant is crucial. Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing provides complete business setup and financial advisory services under one roof.
Our experts help you with:
- Selecting the best free zone
- Preparing and submitting documentation
- Acquiring trade licenses and visas
- Handling accounting and audit services
- Ensuring tax and VAT compliance
We make the process simple, transparent, and efficient so you can focus on growing your business. Our team stays updated with UAE’s latest regulations, ensuring every client receives professional and accurate guidance.
What Can Help – Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing
At Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing, we understand that starting a business is a major decision. We provide support from company formation to audit and tax filing. Our services ensure your business meets all legal standards while maximizing growth opportunities.
We help clients manage compliance, financial reporting, and corporate structuring. Remember, “success doesn’t come overnight—it’s built step by step.” With our help, you’ll build a solid foundation for long-term success in Sharjah Free Zone.
For more information visit our office:
- Address: Saraya Avenue Building – Office M-06, Block/A, Al Garhoud – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
- Contact/WhatsApp: +971 50 276 2132
- Geo Coordinates: 25.2807189480206, 55.41846458517048
For More Information Visit Our:
- Business Setup Division
- Corporate Tax Team
- VAT Registration Desk
- Accounting & Auditing Department
- Legal & Compliance Unit
