Sharjah is often considered the quieter cousin of Dubai, but when it comes to business potential, it’s anything but second best. With lower startup costs, access to the UAE’s growing economy, and full support from the Sharjah Economic Development Department (SEDD), the emirate is quickly becoming a favorite for entrepreneurs—especially those looking to set up a mainland company.

So, if you’re considering launching a business in Sharjah in 2025, this guide will walk you through the process of mainland company registration—step by step.

Whether you're a local entrepreneur or a foreign investor, Sharjah offers a strategic location, strong legal framework, and access to both local and international markets.

Why Choose Sharjah Mainland?

Before diving into the Sharjah company registration process, it's important to understand why mainland Sharjah is an attractive option.

1. Wider Market Access: A mainland company can do business anywhere in the UAE without restrictions, unlike free zone companies.

2. More Business Activities Allowed: SEDD offers a broad range of licensed activities, including commercial, industrial, and professional services.

3. No Capital Repatriation Restrictions: Investors can transfer 100% of profits and capital abroad.

4. Cost-Effective Setup: Compared to Dubai, the setup and rental costs in Sharjah are significantly lower.

For many small to mid-sized businesses, this balance between cost and market reach makes the mainland route the ideal choice.

Step-by-Step Process to Register a Company in Sharjah Mainland

1. Choose Your Business Activity

Start by identifying what kind of business you want to set up. The Sharjah Economic Development Department (SEDD) provides an extensive list of business activities categorized under commercial, industrial, and professional licenses.

If your planned activity involves special approvals (e.g., medical, legal, or education sectors), you may need clearance from additional government bodies.

2. Decide the Legal Structure

Your legal structure determines how your business operates and how liability is managed. In Sharjah mainland, the most common types are:

• Limited Liability Company (LLC) – For commercial activities; requires a UAE national partner (now only as a service agent in many sectors).

• Sole Establishment – Owned by one individual (can be expat or local, depending on the activity).

• Civil Company – For professionals such as doctors, engineers, consultants.

• Branch of a Foreign Company – For companies expanding into the UAE market.

Thanks to recent reforms, many professional and commercial businesses now allow 100% foreign ownership without requiring a local partner, though some sectors still need Emirati involvement.

3. Reserve a Trade Name

Choose a unique and compliant name for your business. The name must:

• Reflect your business activity

• Avoid religious or political terms

• Not resemble names of other registered businesses

You can reserve your name through SEDD’s online portal or at their customer happiness centers.

4. Get Initial Approval from SEDD

This is the green light from the government that your business activity and name are approved. It doesn't yet allow you to start operations but is an essential early step in the licensing process.

At this stage, SEDD will ask for:

• Passport copies of shareholders

• Business name reservation certificate

• Description of intended business activity

5. Finalize Your Office Space

All Sharjah mainland companies must have a physical office space. You’ll need a lease (Ejari contract) for at least one year. Flexi-desks or virtual offices are not accepted for mainland entities.

The office should comply with Sharjah Municipality requirements, and you'll need a tenancy contract registered under your trade name.

6. Draft and Notarize the MOA

For LLCs, you’ll need to draft a Memorandum of Association (MOA) detailing ownership percentages, capital contribution, and responsibilities of each partner. This must be notarized at a UAE court or through a licensed law firm.

If you're opting for 100% foreign ownership, the MOA will reflect that—otherwise, it will include your Emirati partner or service agent as required.

7. Apply for Trade License

With all approvals in place, submit the final documents to SEDD to obtain your trade license. This document officially registers your business and allows you to start operations.

You’ll also receive your Chamber of Commerce membership certificate, which is mandatory for doing business in the emirate.

Documents usually required at this stage:

• Initial approval certificate

• Trade name reservation

• Tenancy contract

• MOA (notarized)

• Passport copies of shareholders and managers

• Power of attorney (if applicable)

8. Register for Immigration and Labor Cards

Once licensed, your company needs to be registered with:

• Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation (MOHRE) for labor cards

• General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) for immigration purposes

This allows you to sponsor employees and apply for investor visas, if needed.

How Long Does It Take?

If all documents are in order, the entire process—from trade name reservation to receiving your trade license—can take anywhere from 7 to 15 working days. However, timelines may vary depending on your business type, approval requirements, and whether you’re handling the process yourself or through a business setup consultant.

Estimated Cost to Register a Company in Sharjah Mainland (2025)

While costs vary depending on the business type and office size, here are the general expenses you can expect:

• Trade license fees

• Office rental and registration

• MOA drafting and notarization

• Chamber of Commerce registration

• Government approvals (if applicable)

• Immigration card and labor file setup

• Professional service charges (if using a consultant)

The total setup cost typically ranges from AED 15,000 to AED 25,000 or more, depending on your activity and structure.

Final Thoughts

Sharjah is a smart, cost-efficient choice for entrepreneurs looking to access the UAE market without the high overheads of Dubai. With a clear regulatory framework and growing investor interest, setting up a mainland company in Sharjah is both practical and strategic.

The key to success lies in choosing the right legal structure, ensuring compliance, and partnering with trusted advisors if needed. Whether you're starting a small consultancy or expanding an international brand, Sharjah gives you a strong foundation to build on.

FAQs

1. Can I fully own my Sharjah mainland company as a foreigner?
Yes, many business activities now allow 100% foreign ownership, though some sectors still require a local service agent or partner.

2. Do I need a physical office to register my company in Sharjah?
Yes, a physical office lease is mandatory for mainland businesses. Flexi-desks or virtual offices are not accepted.

3. How long does it take to get the license?
Generally, the process takes 1 to 2 weeks if all documents are complete and approvals are straightforward.

4. What is the difference between Sharjah free zone and mainland?
Free zones offer 100% ownership and tax incentives but limit your ability to trade directly within the UAE. Mainland companies can operate anywhere in the country.