As an aspiring entrepreneur, you are likely on a quest for the perfect location to establish your venture, one that offers a robust economy, a supportive business environment, and unparalleled growth opportunities. Look no further than the Free Zones of Sharjah, an emirate of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) renowned for its economic dynamism, cultural heritage, and natural beauty.
Why Business Setup Sharjah?
Before we delve into the specifics of Sharjah’s Free Zones, let’s explore the city’s enchanting backdrop.
Sharjah is a City of Cultural and Natural Splendour.
Sharjah is the third-largest emirate in the UAE, combines mesmerizing landscapes with a vibrant cultural heritage. It is the designated Cultural Capital of the Arab World by UNESCO and hosts a myriad of architectural marvels, historical landmarks, and art galleries.
The city’s landscapes are equally breathtaking. With the golden sands of the Arabian Desert meeting the sparkling waters of the Arabian Gulf and Indian Ocean, Sharjah’s natural beauty provides a serene setting for business and life.
How is the economy of Sharjah for Business?
Sharjah’s economy, marked by its stability, diversity, and resilience, creates a conducive environment for businesses.
Sharjah’s Economic Landscape and Business Opportunities
The city boasts of a strategic geographical location, business-friendly regulations, and innovative initiatives, and has emerged as a dynamic hub for both local and international business ventures.
Central to Sharjah’s appeal to entrepreneurs are its Free Zones, each one meticulously designed to cater to different industries. These include the Hamriyah Free Zone, SAIF Zone , Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone, and Sharjah Media City (Shams) Free Zone. They offer businesses numerous benefits such as 100% foreign ownership, exemption from personal and corporate taxes, streamlined registration and licensing processes, and state-of-the-art infrastructure.
List of Sharjah Free Zones
Each Free Zone in Sharjah offers unique advantages that cater to various business needs.
To understand better, let’s take a closer look at each of them
| Free Zone | Cost | Compliances | Industries | Policies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hamriyah Free Zone | Varies based on the type of license, business activity, and facility required | Companies must comply with the UAE’s laws and regulations | Wide range of industries including oil & gas, petrochemicals, maritime, steel, construction, and food | 100% foreign ownership, no restrictions on repatriation of capital and profits |
| Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF) | Varies based on the type of license and facility required | Companies must comply with the UAE’s laws and regulations | Wide range of industries including IT services, media, consumer durables, light to medium manufacturing, and logistics | 100% foreign ownership, 24/7 service support, on-site custom for rapid clearance of goods |
| Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone | Varies based on the type of license and facility required | Companies must comply with the UAE’s laws and regulations | Catered primarily to the publishing industry but also includes a wide range of other business activities | 100% foreign ownership, zero paid-up share capital, and lease agreement with every business license |
| Sharjah Media City Free Zone (Shams) | Varies based on the type of license, business activity, and facility required | Companies must comply with the UAE’s laws and regulations | Wide range of business activities with a focus on media and creative industries | 100% foreign ownership and quick online registration process |
Let’s explore and understand each Free Zone a little more.
Hamriyah Free Zone
This zone is positioned next to a deep port and an inner harbor, offering direct access to the Arabian Gulf’s east and west coasts. It appeals to businesses requiring extensive logistics and shipping facilities and houses over 6,500 companies from 163 countries.
SAIF Zone
As the first ISO 9001 certified airport free zone globally, it offers numerous benefits, such as full ownership and tax-friendly incentives. Its simplified business setup process and robust support system make it an attractive choice for entrepreneurs.
Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone
The world’s first free zone dedicated to the publishing and printing industry. It provides corporate banking assistance and an efficient business setup process.
Sharjah Media City (Shams) Free Zone
It caters to creative and media businesses with a quick online registration process and no corporate or personal income tax.
Will my family be able to adjust to Life in Sharjah?
Absolutely. Beyond its business-friendly environment, Sharjah offers an exceptional quality of life. It houses premier universities, world-class healthcare facilities, and maintains high public safety standards. Its vibrant cultural scene, tranquil natural settings, and secure living environment make it not just a place for business, but a place to call home.
If you decide to go for company setup in Sharjah Free Zone, experts at Horizon Biz Consultancy can guide you throughout the entire journey including getting Family Visa and sponsorships for your employees.
Sharjah Free Zones are a Haven for Entrepreneurs
In conclusion, Sharjah’s Free Zones are an entrepreneur’s haven, offering a fertile ground for businesses to flourish against a backdrop of cultural richness and natural beauty. With its unique blend of business benefits and quality of life, Sharjah presents a compelling case for entrepreneurs seeking a dynamic, supportive, and culturally rich environment to set up their businesses. From the charm of its city life to the dynamism of its business landscape, Sharjah indeed makes dreams take flight.
Get in touch with company setup Sharjah experts at Horizon Biz Consultancy.
Conclusion:
Setting up a company in the UAE, particularly in Sharjah Free Zones, offers a host of benefits including a strategic location, business-friendly environment, and access to a diverse market. By following the simple steps outlined in this guide, entrepreneurs can navigate the process with ease and establish a successful business in this thriving region.
FAQ’S:
What are the benefits of setting up a company in a Sharjah Free Zone?
Setting up a company in a Sharjah Free Zone offers benefits such as 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, simplified company setup process, and access to state-of-the-art infrastructure.
What are the types of companies that can be set up in Sharjah Free Zones?
Sharjah Free Zones allow for the setup of various types of companies including free zone establishments (FZE), free zone companies (FZC), and branch offices of existing companies.
Are there any restrictions on business activities in Sharjah Free Zones?
While Sharjah Free Zones offer a wide range of business activities, certain activities may be restricted or require special approvals. It is advisable to check with the relevant authorities before proceeding.
