Sharjah Free Zone Company Formation

Simplified, Fast, and Affordable Business Setup Solutions in Sharjah


Setting up a company in Sharjah Free Zone is one of the most efficient and cost-effective ways to establish your presence in the UAE’s growing business landscape. With streamlined registration, 100% foreign ownership, and simplified licensing procedures, Sharjah Free Zones provide global entrepreneurs and SMEs with an ideal gateway to regional and international markets.

Sharjah is the third-largest emirate of the UAE and strategically located between Dubai and the Northern Emirates, offering easy access to major seaports, airports, and highways. Whether you’re planning to start a trading, service, or industrial company, Sharjah Free Zone company formation ensures smooth business registration, affordable setup packages, and fast approval times.

Why Choose Sharjah Free Zone for Company Formation?

Sharjah’s Free Zones are known for their cost-effectiveness, investor-friendly laws, and global connectivity. Compared to other emirates, Sharjah offers lower setup costs, flexible business solutions, and quick licensing services.

Key benefits of company formation in Sharjah Free Zone include:
  • 100% foreign ownership
  • Zero corporate and personal income tax
  • Full repatriation of profits and capital
  • No currency restrictions
  • Affordable warehouse and office rental rates
  • Quick company registration and licensing (within days)
  • Strategic access to Sharjah International Airport and seaports
  • Availability of multi-type business activities under one license


For entrepreneurs, freelancers, and global investors,
Sharjah Free Zone business setup provides a perfect blend of cost-efficiency and infrastructure excellence ideal for startups, SMEs, and large-scale enterprises alike.

Major Free Zones in Sharjah

There are four main Free Zones in Sharjah, each offering unique benefits and sector-specific opportunities:

  1. Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF Zone)
    One of the oldest and most established Free Zones in the UAE, SAIF Zone is a hub for trading, manufacturing, and logistics companies. It offers world-class infrastructure, warehouse spaces, and proximity to Sharjah International Airport, making it ideal for import-export businesses.

  2. Hamriyah Free Zone Authority (HFZA)
    HFZA is known for its cost-effective industrial land, easy licensing, and strategic access to deep-water seaports. It caters to heavy industries, manufacturing, and petrochemical companies.

  3. Sharjah Media City (SHAMS) Free Zone
    A modern and vibrant hub for media, creative, and digital industries, SHAMS Free Zone allows 100% ownership and offers flexible workspace solutions, making it perfect for freelancers and startups.

  4. Sharjah Publishing City (SPC) Free Zone
    The world’s first publishing and printing Free Zone, SPC Free Zone offers dual licenses (Free Zone + Mainland) and a wide range of business activities beyond publishing — including consultancy, IT, and trading.

Each of these Free Zones offers customized company setup packages, quick licensing, and visa eligibility, ensuring smooth business formation under The Capital Zone’s professional guidance.

Types of Business Licenses in Sharjah Free Zone


To operate legally, every company must obtain a
business license aligned with its activity type. Sharjah Free Zones issue several types of licenses:

Commercial License
For companies involved in buying, selling, and trading goods. Activities include logistics, general trading, automobile sales, and real estate services.
Industrial License
For businesses engaged in manufacturing, assembling, processing, and packaging. Ideal for companies producing food, metal, or consumer goods.
Professional (Service) License
For service providers and professionals, including IT consultants, management advisors, auditors, marketing firms, and educational or healthcare providers.
General Trading License
Allows multiple trading activities under one license, enabling flexibility for import/export and wholesale trading businesses.

Step-by-Step Process for Company Formation in Sharjah Free Zone

Setting up a business in Sharjah Free Zone is a structured process that can be completed in a few working days with The Capital Zone’s expert assistance:

Step 1 – Choose a Business Activity & License Type

Select your desired business activities (commercial, industrial, or service) and determine the suitable license category.

Step 2 – Decide Company Structure

Choose between a Free Zone Establishment (FZE) for a single shareholder or a Free Zone Company (FZC) for multiple shareholders.

Step 3 – Reserve a Trade Name

Reserve a unique company name that meets UAE naming guidelines.

Step 4 – Submit Documents & Application

Prepare and submit the required documents, including shareholder passport copies, application forms, and NOC (if applicable).

Step 5 – Office Space & Facility Selection

Choose your workspace or office solution from flexi desks to dedicated offices or warehouses.

Step 6 – Pay the Fees and Obtain Initial Approval

Once documents are verified, pay the registration fee and receive initial approval.

Step 7 – Collect Business License

After approval, your Sharjah Free Zone license will be issued within 3–5 working days, along with establishment documents.

Step 8 – Apply for Residence Visas & Bank Account

Shareholders and employees can apply for UAE residence visas and open a corporate bank account to begin operations.

Documents Required for Business Setup in Sharjah Free Zone

  • Passport copies of shareholders and directors
  • UAE entry stamp or residence visa copy (if applicable)
  • Passport-size photos
  • Application form
  • Business plan or project summary (if required)
  • Proof of address (utility bill or tenancy contract)
  • NOC from current sponsor (for UAE residents)
  • Memorandum & Articles of Association (for corporate entities)


Each Free Zone in Sharjah may have specific documentation requirements; however, the general list of documents mentioned above is commonly required across all zones.

Company Formation Timeline

Generally, Sharjah Free Zone company formation takes 5 to 10 working days once all required documents are submitted.

However, the duration may vary depending on activity type, external approvals, and visa requirements. For specialized or industrial setups, the process may extend up to 2–4 weeks.

Tax and Regulatory Advantages

  • 0% Corporate and Personal Tax
  • 9% corporate tax only on profits exceeding AED 375,000 (as per UAE law)
  • 5% VAT on taxable supplies (exports remain 0-rated)
  • 100% exemption on import and export duties
  • Free repatriation of capital and profits
  • No foreign currency restrictions


These
tax advantages and regulatory benefits make Sharjah Free Zone company formation one of the most profitable and compliant routes for foreign investors in the UAE.

Common Challenges During Company Formation in Sharjah Free Zone

While Sharjah offers a smooth registration process, some entrepreneurs face the following challenges:

  • Selecting the right Free Zone based on business activity
  • Preparing attested documents for foreign shareholders
  • Understanding visa eligibility and office space requirements
  • Managing UAE bank account opening procedures
  • Delays due to incomplete documentation or external approvals


With
The Capital Zone’s expert guidance, these challenges are handled seamlessly — ensuring quick approvals and compliance at every step.

Why Choose Us

At The Capital Zone, we simplify your Sharjah Free Zone business setup with expert guidance, end-to-end support, and transparent pricing.

Our services include:

  • Company registration and licensing
  • Visa and immigration assistance
  • Bank account opening support
  • Accounting and tax compliance
  • Ongoing business consultancy


With a proven track record of helping hundreds of entrepreneurs,
The Capital Zone ensures a fast, compliant, and cost-efficient company formation in Sharjah Free Zones enabling you to focus on business growth while we handle the paperwork.

Have A Questions?

Contact our team of financial experts for personalized assistance and support.

Frequently Asked Questions

Usually, it takes 5–10 working days, depending on the chosen Free Zone and the type of license.

Yes, all Sharjah Free Zones allow 100% foreign ownership with no local sponsor requirement.

You can choose from trading, services, consultancy, manufacturing, and e-commerce activities, depending on your license.

Yes, depending on your license type and office package, you can apply for multiple UAE residence visas for shareholders and employees.