Sharjah Free Zone License Guide in 2025
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Sharjah Free Zones have become a top choice for entrepreneurs in 2025, offering low-cost licenses, strategic connectivity, and a wide range of business activities. With faster approvals, zero tax benefits, and full foreign ownership, they attract both startups and global investors. Whether you’re planning a small-scale consultancy or an international trading company, Sharjah provides the infrastructure and flexibility to grow. In this blog, we will walk you through the types of Sharjah Free Zone licenses, the steps to get started and their benefits.
Understanding Sharjah Free Zone
Sharjah Free Zones offer a business-friendly environment with full foreign ownership, 9% corporate tax, and simplified company formation processes. These zones attract both startups and international investors by providing modern infrastructure, cost-effective office solutions, and streamlined government services.
Some of the most well-known free zones in Sharjah include Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone (SPC Free Zone), Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF Zone), and Hamriyah Free Zone. Each zone is tailored to serve specific industries such as publishing, logistics, manufacturing, trading, and technology.
With quick company registration, access to international markets, and a range of license options, Sharjah Free Zones have become a strategic choice for entrepreneurs looking to establish a strong presence in the UAE.
License Types Available in Sharjah Free Zones
Sharjah Free Zones offer a wide range of business licenses tailored to suit different industries and activities. These Sharjah Free Zone licenses are designed to simplify the business setup process while giving investors the flexibility to operate across local and global markets.
Here are the types of business licenses available in Sharjah Free Zones:
Professional License
This license is suitable for individuals and companies providing professional services such as consultancy, IT services, marketing, and similar expertise-driven activities. It allows 100% ownership and is ideal for skilled professionals.
Industrial License
This license is issued to businesses involved in manufacturing, processing, and packaging activities. It allows the setup of industrial operations within the free zone and is suitable for companies looking to produce goods or conduct light manufacturing.
Commercial License
This license is ideal for businesses involved in buying, selling, and trading goods. It covers wholesale, retail, and general trading activities. Investors can trade locally and internationally under this license, making it a popular choice for import-export businesses.
Service License
Perfect for professionals and businesses offering consultancy, marketing, IT, education, and other service-based activities. This license allows individuals to operate as freelancers or form service-based companies in the free zone.
E-Commerce License
Designed for online businesses and digital sellers, this license enables entrepreneurs to sell products or services via online platforms. It supports online trading, dropshipping, and digital marketplaces, catering to the rising demand for e-commerce in the UAE.
Publishing License
The Publishing License is available at a cost of AED 5,750, and AED 13,175 with one visa. It allows businesses to engage in activities such as e-commerce, IT and computer programming, marketing and public relations, web design, media services, and various consultancy activities. This license is ideal for professionals involved in digital content creation and online service delivery.
Business License
The Business License is priced at AED 6,875 and AED 14,300 with one visa. It offers the flexibility to choose from over 2,000 approved business activities, making it a versatile option for entrepreneurs with varied business interests. Whether you are starting a consultancy, a trading firm, or a digital service, this license provides a comprehensive setup to support your venture.
Media License
This type of Sharjah Free Zone license is suitable for content creators, publishers, advertising agencies, and digital marketing companies. It allows businesses to engage in media production, communication services, and publishing within a regulated environment.
General Trading License
This license allows companies to deal in a wide variety of unrelated goods under a single license. It’s perfect for businesses that plan to trade multiple products across different categories without restrictions.
How to Get a Business License in Sharjah Free Zone
Starting a business in a Sharjah Free Zone is a straightforward process, especially when done through the Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone (SPC Free Zone), which offers a fast, digital setup with minimal paperwork. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you obtain your Sharjah Free Zone business license with ease.
1. Choose the Right Business License
The first step is selecting the license that best matches your business activity. Sharjah Free Zones, like SPC Free Zone, offer several types of licenses, including commercial, e-commerce, service, and media licenses. Each license is designed for specific activities—for example, a service license is ideal for consultancy or professional services, while an e-commerce license suits online trading businesses. A typical business license includes up to five business activities, allows up to seven shareholders (all eligible for partner visas), provides access to a business center, and includes a lease agreement that facilitates bank account opening.
2. Reserve Your Company Name
Once your Sharjah Free Zone license type is decided, the next step is to choose a company name. Make sure the name is unique, non-offensive, and compliant with UAE naming guidelines. It should not include religious or political references and must not duplicate names of existing businesses.
3. Submit the Application Form
After reserving your trade name, complete the business license application form. This form includes key details about your company, such as ownership structure, shareholder information, and business activities. Double-check your entries to avoid delays during the approval process.
4. Select Office Space or a Smart Office Package
Sharjah Free Zones provide flexible workspace options, including physical offices, coworking spaces, or virtual (smart) offices. Depending on the nature of your business and budget, you can choose a facility that meets your operational needs. SPC Free Zone even offers license packages with no physical office requirement, making setup faster and more affordable.
5. Submit the Required Documents
Prepare and upload the necessary documents as per the licensing authority’s requirements. These usually include passport copies of shareholders, a digital passport-sized photo, and your selected business name. Some activities may require additional documents like qualifications or NOC letters if you’re currently residing in the UAE.
6. Make the Payment
Once your documents are approved, you will need to pay the Sharjah Free Zone license and registration fees. SPC Free Zone provides transparent pricing and the option to combine multiple activities under one license. Many packages are also VAT-inclusive and start from very affordable rates, making the process budget-friendly for startups and SMEs.
7. Receive Your Business License
After completing payment, your Sharjah Free Zone business license will be issued—often within a few hours if all requirements are met. With SPC Free Zone’s fast-track system, you can also get your Memorandum of Association (MOA), lease agreement, and trade license digitally, so you can start operations immediately.
Read Also: Dubai Mainland License Cost Guide [2025]
Key Advantages of Starting a Business in the Sharjah Free Zone
Starting your business in a Sharjah Free Zone offers a perfect blend of affordability, flexibility, and international access. These zones are designed to support startups, freelancers, and global companies with a smooth setup process and long-term growth opportunities.
Here are the major benefits of setting up in Sharjah Free Zone:
- 100% Foreign Ownership: Investors can fully own their company without the need for a local sponsor or partner, ensuring complete control over the business.
- 9% Corporate and Income Taxes: Sharjah Free Zones offer a tax-free environment, meaning no personal income tax or 9% corporate tax—making it ideal for maximizing profits.
- Quick and Hassle-Free Setup: With streamlined digital procedures, many Sharjah Free Zone licenses can be issued within 24 to 48 hours, allowing businesses to start operating fast.
- Wide Range of Business Activities: From e-commerce and media to consultancy and trading, Sharjah Free Zones support over 1,500 licensed activities under flexible license types, with the option to choose from over 2,000 approved business activities.
- Affordable License Packages: The business setup in Sharjah is budget-friendly and offers customizable packages, making it ideal for startups, solo entrepreneurs, and small businesses. For instance, the Publishing License starts at AED 5,750 and AED 13,175 with one visa, covering activities such as e-commerce, IT and computer programming, marketing and PR, web design and media, along with various consultancy services. The Business License is available at AED 6,875 and AED 14,300 with one visa, allowing you to choose any activity from over 2,000 approved options and providing maximum flexibility for business operations.
- Strategic Location: Sharjah connects businesses to the rest of the UAE and international markets, thanks to its ports, airport, and central geographic position.
- Modern Office and Smart Desk Options: Whether you need a full office, shared space, or a virtual desk, Sharjah Free Zones offers flexible workspace solutions to suit your needs.
- Full Repatriation of Capital and Profits: Business owners are free to send all profits and capital back to their home country without any restrictions.
- No Import or Export Duties: Companies operating within Sharjah Free Zones enjoy duty-free trade for imports and exports, lowering overall operational costs.
- Supportive Business Environment: Government initiatives, simplified regulations, and easy access to support services make Sharjah a business-friendly zone for all entrepreneurs.
Why SetupMate Is the Right Choice
In this blog, we have covered everything you need to know about starting a business in the Sharjah Free Zone—from Sharjah Free Zone license types to setup steps and key benefits. With so many options and processes to navigate, partnering with the right expert can make all the difference. SetupMate simplifies your business journey with tailored guidance, fast-track setup, and end-to-end support. Let SetupMate handle the hard part so you can focus on growing your business.
