Sharjah Mainland Company Formation
Shuraa Simplifies Your Business Setup in Sharjah Mainland.
Navigate a straightforward path to UAE success with our expert services.
Setting up a business in Sharjah Mainland
Do you find it challenging to obtain a Sharjah mainland business license? In that case, let our adept business setup consultants in Sharjah be the perfect choice to fulfill your aspirations.
Sharjah, a booming emirate in the United Arab Emirates, offers new avenues of progress implemented regularly by its government. Business setup in Sharjah mainland is ideal for service-oriented sectors as well as industrial sectors.
It is valued as a strategic location that connects major trading zones and is a cost-effective way to commercialise your business activity. The location stimulates the marine and shipping sectors of the country. Hence, company formation in Sharjah is a good option.
Our business setup consultants in Sharjah sort everything out for you, which makes starting a business in Sharjah extremely simple and convenient. At Shuraa, we assist multinational companies as well as SMEs with getting their business licenses in Sharjah.
Let's Connect.
Why Choose Sharjah Mainland for Your Business Setup?
Businesses in Sharjah do not have to be audited, freeing up time and resources for other business activities
Sharjah does not have restrictions on the use of certain currencies, making it easier to conduct financial transactions.
UAE mainland companies can easily expand their visa quotas as long as they have the physical space
Mainland companies enjoy the same benefits as free zone companies, including tax exemption and no minimum capital requirement
Sharjah Mainland companies can operate anywhere in the UAE, including free zones and outside the country.
Open physical offices anywhere in the UAE. This can help you build relationships with local customers and partners and give you a competitive edge
You can also bid on government contracts, giving them the opportunity to work on high-risk, high-return projects.
Steps in Setting Up a Business in Sharjah Mainland
Establishing your company in Sharjah Mainland involves a clear, structured process. From initial planning to launching your operations, here are the essential steps to successfully form your business:
The first crucial step involves choosing your company’s specific business activities. This decision determines your license type and must align with the Department of Economic Development’s approved list of economic activities.
Select and register a unique trade name for your enterprise. The name must comply with UAE naming conventions and should not include offensive language or religious references. The DED will verify the name’s availability before approval.
Submit your initial application to the DED, which includes your chosen business activities, trade name, and preliminary documents. This step secures preliminary clearance to proceed with your company formation.
Prepare all required legal documents, including the Memorandum of Association (MOA) and shareholder agreements. These documents must be properly attested and notarized by relevant authorities to be legally valid.
Secure appropriate physical office space that meets DED requirements for your business type. The tenancy contract must be registered with the Sharjah Municipality as proof of your business address.
Submit your complete application package to the DED, including all attested documents, tenancy contract, and initial approval documents. This formal application triggers the final review process.
Obtain any necessary sector-specific clearances from relevant government entities. Depending on your business activity, this may include approvals from ministries, municipalities, or other regulatory bodies.
Receive your official trade license from the DED after completing all previous steps and paying the required government fees. This license legally authorizes your business operations in Sharjah.
Register your Establishment Card, which formalizes your company’s status with relevant federal authorities and enables you to sponsor employee visas.
Initiate residency visa applications for partners and employees through proper immigration channels. Simultaneously, open a corporate bank account with a UAE financial institution to handle business transactions.
Trusted by
100,000+
Businesses
All Over The World.......






Trusted by
100,000+
Businesses
All Over The World.......






Flourishing Sectors in Sharjah Mainland
Types of Business Licenses in Sharjah Mainland
The Sharjah Department of Economic Development (DED) regulates and issues all mainland business licenses. Choosing the correct license, commercial, professional, or industrial, is a critical first step to ensure your business activities are fully aligned with local regulations and compliance standards.
Commercial License
Essential for businesses involved in trading activities, a Commercial License covers import, export, wholesale, retail, and e-commerce. This license permits companies to legally trade goods and commodities within the UAE and internationally, requiring mandatory physical office or retail space for approval.
Professional License
Designed for service providers and professionals, this license covers consultancy, creative services, and personal care businesses. It applies to fields like legal advisory, marketing, design, and beauty services. Some professional activities may require a Local Service Agent for government liaison, though the agent holds no ownership stake.
Industrial License
Required for manufacturing and industrial operations, an Industrial License covers production, processing, assembly, and packaging activities. Businesses must secure appropriate industrial space and obtain additional approvals from relevant authorities to ensure compliance with zoning, environmental, and safety standards.
Get your Sharjah mainland business license Now!
Types of Business Entities in Sharjah Mainland
Limited Liability Company (LLC)
The LLC is the most popular choice for foreign investors in Sharjah, allowing 100% foreign ownership in most sectors. Liability is limited to capital invested, protecting personal assets. This versatile structure accommodates 1 to 50 shareholders and suits most business activities.
Local Service Agent Company / Sole Proprietorship
This structure enables 100% foreign ownership for individual professionals and service providers. It requires a UAE national as a Local Service Agent who assists with government procedures but holds no ownership rights or profit share. Ideal for consultants and freelancers.
Branch & Partnership Companies
A Branch Office allows existing UAE or foreign companies to expand into Sharjah without forming a new entity. Partnership Companies are exclusively for UAE nationals, involving two or more local partners under specific liability terms. This option is not available to foreign investors.
Required Documents for Sharjah Mainland Company Set Up
Essential documents for your business formation in Sharjah:
- Completed application for business registration in Sharjah
- A comprehensive business plan
- National ID and family book photocopies
- Duly attested and notarized Memorandum of Association (MoA) and Articles of Association (AOA)
- Passport copies of all partners and managers involved in the company
- Power of Attorney
- Bank reference letters
- Proof of residence
- Board resolution for foreign companies
- Lease agreement

