A Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up a Company in Sharjah

Conduct Market Research:

You should do extensive market research before moving forward with establishing your business in Sharjah. Understanding the local business environment, recognizing possible competitors, and evaluating the level of demand for your products or services. You can improve your chances of success by customizing your business plan to the Sharjah market’s demands with the aid of this research.

Choose the Right Business Structure:

In Sharjah, businesses can be set up under various legal structures, including mainland companies, free zone companies, and offshore companies. Each structure has its own set of regulations, benefits, and limitations. Mainland businesses let you do business anywhere in the United Arab Emirates, but they need a local sponsor or partner.Free zone businesses are limited in their ability to conduct business outside of the zone, but they also offer incentives and 100% foreign ownership. Offshore companies are ideal for international business operations and offer tax benefits but cannot trade within the UAE. Selectthe structure that most closely matches the aims and objectives of your company.

Select a Trade Name and Reserve it:

Selecting a distinctive and significant trade name is essential to the identity and branding of your business. Verify that the name doesn’t infringe upon any trademarks and complies with the naming conventions of the UAE. After deciding on a name, you must reserve it with Sharjah’s Department of Economic Development (DED). You have two optionsfor completing thisreservation process: online orvia a recognized business service provider.

Prepare the Necessary Documentation:

To register your company in Sharjah, you’ll need to gather and prepare several documents, including:

• Passport copies ofshareholders and directors
• No Objection Certificate (NOC) from current sponsor (if applicable)
• Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA)
• Lease agreement for office space
• Power of Attorney (if using a representative)
• Completed application forms

Ensure that all documents are duly attested and translated into Arabic by a certified translator, if necessary.

Obtain Initial Approvals and Licenses:

Submit your application for initial approvals and licenses to the appropriate authorities as soon as you have the necessary paperwork. Depending on the type of business you are running and the structure you have chosen, this process might change. Approvals from the DED are required for mainland businesses, and approvalsfrom the relevant free zone authority are required for free zone businesses. Approval from the appropriate offshore jurisdiction is required for offshore companies.

Lease Office Space and Obtain Ejari:

Leasing office space is an essential requirement for company registration for companies based on the mainland and in certain free zones. Locate a suitable Sharjah office space, then work out a lease with thelandlord. Get an Ejari certificate from the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) as soon as the lease isfinalized. To complete the company registration process, you must have this certificate.