Sharjah, one of the seven emirates of the UAE, offers a favorable environment for business incorporation.
Whether you’re considering setting up a company on the mainland or within one of Sharjah’s free zones, the process in 2025 is streamlined and efficient.
This article helps you understand the steps involved in company incorporation in Sharjah and the legal services that specialized law firms provide to assist you during the process.
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Steps of Company Incorporation in Sharjah
Sharjah offers two primary options for company incorporation: on the mainland or within a free zone. Both have distinct benefits depending on your business needs.
Below, we break down the process for each.
Mainland Company Incorporation
Setting up a mainland company in Sharjah allows your business to operate anywhere in the UAE and internationally. The steps for mainland company incorporation in Sharjah are the following:
- Identify Business Activity:
You need to decide which of the six main types of economic licenses your business falls under: Occupational, Tourism, Industrial, Commercial, Agricultural, or Professional. - Choose Legal Structure:
Depending on your business needs, you can choose from various legal structures, such as a Sole Establishment, Limited Liability Company (LLC), Civil Company, or a Branch of a Local Company. - Trade Name Registration:
Your business name must be unique, relevant to your business activity, and approved by the Department of Economic Development (DED). It must not violate any naming rules, such as including inappropriate words or names of government bodies. - Obtain Initial Approval:
After registration, you must apply for initial approval from the relevant authorities. This approval allows you to proceed with further steps. - Prepare the Memorandum of Association (MOA):
Depending on your legal structure, a Memorandum of Association (MOA) may be required. - Choose a Business Location:
Your business must have a physical location, and you’ll need to register the tenancy contract through the local department, such as the Dubai Land Department for Dubai-based businesses. - Submit Required Documents:
Submit all necessary documents, including your initial approval, MOA, and lease contract. - Pay Fees and Collect License:
After paying the necessary fees, you can collect your trade license from the DED.
Free Zone Company Incorporation
Sharjah is home to various free zones, such as Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone (SPC Free Zone) and Sharjah Media City (Shams), which provide tailored facilities for specific business activities.
The steps for company incorporation in Sharjah free zones are the following:
- Choose a Free Zone:
You must select the free zone that best suits your business type. Each free zone specializes in certain industries, such as media, manufacturing, or publishing. - Submit Application for License:
After choosing the free zone, submit an application to the relevant authority for your desired business activity. Free zones often have simplified application processes. - Secure Office or Warehouse Space:
You must rent office or warehouse space within the free zone. These zones offer flexible office setups to suit different business needs. - Obtain Permits and Approvals:
Depending on the type of business, additional permits or approvals may be needed. These can be obtained through the free zone authority. - Open a Corporate Bank Account:
Once your business is set up, you can open a corporate bank account to manage your company’s financial transactions.
Legal Services for Business Establishment in Sharjah
At our law firm in UAE, we specialize in offering legal services to businesses looking to incorporate in Sharjah.
Our expertise can guide you through the legal complexities of both mainland and free zone incorporation.
- Business Structure Advice:
We provide expert legal advice on choosing the best legal structure for your business, whether it’s a Limited Liability Company (LLC), Sole Establishment, or a Branch of a Local Company. - Trade Name Registration:
Our lawyers assist in registering your business name, ensuring it complies with all local regulations and is approved by the Department of Economic Development. - Document Preparation:
We prepare and review essential documents such as the Memorandum of Association (MOA), Local Service Agent Agreement (LSA), and any other required legal documents for your business setup. - Initial Approval Application:
We handle the submission of applications for initial approval, ensuring that your business complies with all legal requirements. - Legal Support for Free Zone Incorporation:
For those establishing their business in a free zone, our team offers guidance on selecting the appropriate free zone, applying for the necessary licenses, and fulfilling all legal obligations. - Corporate Banking Assistance:
We also assist with the legal aspects of setting up a corporate bank account for your company. - Compliance and Regulations:
Our firm ensures your business complies with the local and federal regulations in Sharjah, helping you navigate any legal hurdles related to approvals, permits, and documentation.
Find Legal Advice in Sharjah.
FAQs about Company Setup in Sharjah
By working with our experienced legal team, you can ensure a smooth and legally compliant company incorporation in Sharjah, whether on the mainland or in one of the many free zones.
Contact our law firm in UAE for expert help. Click the Whatsapp icon below.
A law graduate and legal writer focusing on UAE law, he became known for his ability to clarify complex legal concepts through his writings. His work simplifies the intricacies of the legal landscape in the Emirates, helping both locals and expatriates navigate their legal concerns.
