Top 5 Sharjah Free Zones for Business Setup in 2025 – Which One is Right for You?

Planning to start a business in the UAE? Excellent decision! Because Sharjah provides a cheap setup, 100% foreign ownership, and no taxes. That means higher profit for you. Obtaining a Sharjah Free Zone License is a speedy and easy process. You don’t even require a local sponsor.

There are many free zones in Sharjah, each tailored to different types of businesses. Whether you’re a freelancer, trader, or tech company, there’s something here for you. So, let’s get down to it. In this article, we’ll go over the top 5 Sharjah free zones to assist you in choosing the correct one.

What is a Sharjah Free Zone?

A Sharjah-free zone is a unique place where companies benefit from tax advantages, 100% ownership, and a simple setup. These areas cater to international investors and startups. You can obtain a Sharjah free zone license with visa, a trade license, and office space with ease and speed.

Top 5 Sharjah Free Zones for Company Setup

Let us discuss the top five Sharjah Free Zones for company setup:

1. Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF Zone)

SAIF Zone is located near the Sharjah airport. It is suitable for trading, manufacturing, and logistics firms. It has low fees, rapid approvals, and warehouses. As such, the SAIF Zone company formation is perfect for import/export firms.

You also enjoy 100% ownership in Sharjah, tax-free benefits, and access to a new infrastructure.

2. Hamriyah Free Zone

Hamriyah is optimal for shipping and industrial businesses. It has seaport access and vast land for factories. Furthermore, investors have low lease prices and flexible desk warehouses. It is a free zone with flexi desk in Sharjah.

Therefore, several use it for the Sharjah free zone license concerning heavy industries and trade.

3. Sharjah Media City (Shams Free Zone)

Third, Shams Free Zone is ideal for media, IT, marketing, and creative services. It has low startup expenses and freelance packages. Opening a company in the Sharjah Free Zone, Shams Free Zone, is simple, even for single entrepreneurs.

Also, Shams provides Sharjah free zone company setup with visa solutions for small groups.

4. Sharjah Publishing City (SPC Free Zone)

Conversely, this free zone is designed for publishing, education, and creative sectors. Office space, a Sharjah trade license, and a Sharjah free zone license with visa can be obtained.

In addition, SPC provides access to low cost business license UAE plans with quick approvals.

5. Sharjah Research, Innovation, and Technology Park (SRTIP)

Lastly, SRTIP is all about technology and innovation. Ideal for AI, robotics, and IT services startups. Here, you can avail of high-end offices and free zone visa package deals.

Due to this, it’s a great option for new-generation companies requiring R&D assistance with the Sharjah free zone license advantages.

Documents Required for Sharjah Free Zone Company Formation

To register, have the following documents ready:

• Copies of passports of all shareholders
• License form and business name approval
• No Objection Certificate (if required)
• Office or lease agreement
• Copies of residency visa (if existing)
• Emirates ID and family book (if needed)
• Trade name certificate and MOA
• Signed application forms and board resolution

Remember, documents might differ slightly according to the free zone. But overall, all prominent Sharjah free zone company setup procedures adhere to this list.

How to Open Company in Sharjah Free Zone?

Setting up a business in the Sharjah Free Zone is easy, fast, and cost-effective. You can begin in a matter of days with proper guidance and paperwork. Here’s how:

Step 1: Select your activity

Be the first to decide what activity your company will engage in. You have more than 2,000 activities to select from in trade, media, consulting, and technology. For instance, choose general trade or IT services.

Step 2: Select your free zone

Then, compare Shams, SAIF, Hamriyah, SPC, and SRTIP. Each is appropriate for different industries and provides several advantages. But your business requirements will determine the best fit.

Step 3: Select your company type

Then, choose between FZE (single owner) and FZC (2–5 owners). Both provide 100% ownership. So, select the structure appropriate to your startup or partner plan.

Step 4: Get your documents ready

Then, collect documents such as copies of the passport, trade name approval, tenancy agreement, and visa pages. Also, verify whether you require a No Objection Certificate.

Step 5: Submit application

Now, submit your application either online or through a PRO services company in UAE. Thus, you save time and experience a seamless business setup in Dubai or Sharjah.

Step 6: Pay fees

Concurrently, charges are activity and visa quota reliant. Some free zone visa packages begin at AED 5,750 only. So, pick what suits your budget.

Step 7: Get your license

Then, wait 1–3 working days to receive your Sharjah Free Zone License. Once approved, you can begin working, hiring, and operating immediately.

Sharjah Free Zone – Legal Entities

You can establish your company as:

• Free Zone Establishment (FZE) Single owner. It provides 100% foreign ownership in Sharjah.
• Free Zone Company (FZC) 2 to 5 shareholders. It gives shared responsibilities and flexible capital.

Both of these setups are ideal for anyone who wants to open a company in the Sharjah Free Zone without local sponsors.

Advantages of Setting up a Free Zone Company in Sharjah

Establishing a company in the Sharjah-free zones is an intelligent decision. It’s easy, quick, and affordable. 

1. 100% Ownership in Sharjah

You maintain complete control over your business. Additionally, there is no requirement for a local partner. Therefore, you decide everything and reap all the profits.

2. Tax-Free Setup

There’s 0% on income tax. Also, you don’t have to pay corporate or personal taxes. So, you save more and grow faster with less tax stress.

3. Low Startup Cost

Begin your business from just AED 5,750. That’s extremely inexpensive. And because packages are flexible, you only pay for what your business needs.

4. Visa Packages

You may apply for visas for a maximum of 6 employees. Thus, with each increase in your team, your visa strategy increases as well, seamlessly and effortlessly.

5. Office & Flexi Desk Options

Shared or small offices may be worked from. Even better, opting for a free zone with flexi desk in Sharjah, spare rent, and setup costs.

6. Trade License in Sharjah

A Sharjah trade license allows you to export, import, or provide services. Additionally, it enables you to operate legally and gain the trust of customers.

7. Fast Setup

The majority of companies get licensed within less than 3 days. Therefore, the process is quick. Additionally, with the proper assistance, you can avoid lengthy delays.

8. International Reach

With the ports and airports close by, shipping is convenient. Your company enjoys access to Africa, Asia, and Europe effortlessly and affordably.

9. Current Infrastructure

You enjoy good internet speed, intelligent offices, and hygienic premises. And yes, warehouses are large and cheap, ideal for storage or production purposes.

10. Flexible Packages

Whether you’re on your own or have staff, there’s a solution. So you can level up with ease. And only pay for what you use.

PRO is Here to help

Don’t know what to do next? No need to worry! Our pro support team can do it all for you. From trade licenses to visa applications, we’ve got you covered. In addition, we are a top PRO services provider in the UAE, assisting with PRO services in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and particularly Sharjah.

Apart from that, no matter whether it is document attestation, license renewal, or visa processing, our Dubai business setup professionals ensure it’s easy and hassle-free.

FAQs

Q1. What is the best Sharjah free zone for business?

Well, it depends on your company. For instance, Shams is ideal for media, but SAIF is perfect for trading.

Q2. Is a visa possible with a Sharjah free zone license?

Yes, you can! Indeed, the majority of zones provide visa packages. Besides, it also depends on the plan you pick.

Q3. How long does it take to obtain the license?

Typically, it will only take 1 to 3 days. But you have to apply first, pay the fees, and present the required documents.

Q4. What is the most affordable free zone license in Sharjah?

Shams and SPC offer budget-friendly options. Thus, you can easily begin, save, and develop your business smoothly.

Q5. Can I scale up my flexi desk afterwards?

Yes, sure! You can start small. Then, subsequently, move to a larger office space when your business has expanded.

Conclusion

Sharjah is one of the best places in the UAE to begin your business. With a Sharjah Free Zone License, you enjoy tax-free trade, a fast setup process, and 100% ownership. Additionally, you can pick from numerous visa options suited to your requirements. 

If you wish to establish your business without any worry, we can assist. Last but not least, contact our expert service team now and let’s bring your business dream to life.