The Sharjah Free Zone is recognized as a key logistics and maritime trading center in the UAE. Strategically positioned between Africa, Europe, and Asia, it offers connections to major trading regions. However, trading is not the only activity in the Sharjah Free Zone; it hosts a variety of businesses. Overseen by the Sharjah Economic Development Department (SEDD), this area offers a supportive environment for numerous industries. Establishing your business here provides several benefits, including:

• 100% Foreign Ownership
• Access to Ports and Airports
• 100% Exemption on Imports and Exports
• Cost-Effective Lease Rates
• No Corporate or Income Taxes
• No Currency Restrictions
• Access to Local and Foreign Banks

YUGA Accounting & Tax Consultancy has over a decade of experience helping entrepreneurs through the business setup process in Sharjah. We’ll guide you through everything from licensing procedures to establishing your legal structure so you can enjoy a carefree startup experience.

Select Your Business License Type

In Sharjah’s Free Zones, you can select from a range of license types:

1) Trading License

A Trading License enables businesses to engage in buying and selling activities of various products or commodities. This license type is suitable for traders involved in re-exporting, exporting, importing, or general trading operations.

2) Professional License

This license type is for businesses offering professional services such as consulting, IT, accounting, legal and other specialized services.

3) Commercial License

A Commercial License in Sharjah’s Free Zones is tailored for businesses buying and selling physical goods within the UAE or internationally. This license is ideal for import and export, wholesale, retail, and distribution companies.

Required Documents and Steps to Obtain Your Business License in Sharjah Free Zone

Sharjah has worked to simplify and streamline the licensing application process. Here are the steps you need to follow to obtain your license and the documents you should have on hand:

The Available Free Zones in Sharjah

Sharjah is home to six different Free Zones, each offering first-class amenities, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and business-friendly policies. Here are some of the Free Zones in Sharjah:

01) Sharjah Airport International Free Zone

Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF Zone) is strategically situated adjacent to Sharjah International Airport, providing easy access to global markets through air, land, and sea routes. SAIF Zone is a preferred destination for trading, manufacturing, and service businesses.

02) Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone

Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone is the world’s first free zone dedicated to the publishing industry. It serves as a global hub for publishers, authors, printers, and other stakeholders in the publishing ecosystem. Located in Sharjah, the cultural capital of the UAE, Sharjah Publishing City offers state-of-the-art infrastructure, digital publishing services, and a supportive regulatory framework to facilitate the growth of the publishing industry.

03) Hamriyah Free Zone (HFZ)

Hamriyah Free Zone is one of the UAE’s largest and fastest-growing industrial Free Zones. Located in the emirate of Sharjah, HFZ offers a strategic location with access to major highways, and ports and caters to a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, trading, logistics, and maritime sectors.

04) Sharjah Media City Free Zone (SHAMS)

Sharjah Media City Free Zone (SHAMS) is a specialized Free Zone dedicated to the media and creative industries. It provides an excellent environment for startups, freelancers, and established companies in advertising, publishing, broadcasting, film production, and digital media.