Start your business in Sharjah Mainland with expert guidance, low setup costs, 100% foreign ownership, and access to UAE’s thriving market.
Establishing a company in Sharjah Mainland offers unlimited business opportunities, access to thriving local and international markets, and cost-effective setup solutions. As one of the fastest-growing business hubs in the UAE, Sharjah contributes over 7% to the UAE’s GDP, with a projected annual growth rate of 5%, making it a strategic destination for startups, SMEs, and large enterprises.
With a market size exceeding AED 120 billion, Sharjah is a key player in the manufacturing, logistics, retail, tourism, and education industries. Its low business setup costs, investor-friendly policies, and expanding infrastructure make it attractive for entrepreneurs looking for high returns and sustainable growth.
At Diac, we simplify the entire company formation process in Sharjah Mainland, ensuring compliance with UAE regulations, seamless licensing, and fast-tracked approvals. Whether you are looking to start a trading company, industrial firm, or professional service business, our expert consultants handle everything—from paperwork to office setup—so you can focus on growing your business with confidence in one of the UAE’s most promising economic hubs.
Now is the perfect time to capitalize on Sharjah’s booming economy and establish your presence in this rapidly expanding market. Contact Diac today, and let’s turn your business vision into reality!
If you’re thinking about starting a business in the UAE, Sharjah Mainland should be at the top of your list. It’s affordable, well-connected, and offers startups and established companies opportunities. Unlike Dubai, where costs can be high, Sharjah offers a budget-friendly business setup without compromising access to local and international markets. With no trade restrictions, 100% foreign ownership in many sectors, and investor-friendly policies, it’s no wonder businesses are thriving here.
Here’s why Sharjah Mainland is the ideal place to set up your business:
Sharjah sits right between Dubai and the Northern Emirates, making it a prime location for businesses looking to tap into multiple markets. Whether trading locally or expanding globally, Sharjah gives you easy access to major seaports, two international airports, and well-connected highways. This means faster logistics, smoother operations, and lower transportation costs—a huge advantage for any business.
No one likes dealing with endless paperwork and complicated approvals—and in Sharjah, you don’t have to. The government has made business setup fast, simple, and cost-effective. With minimal bureaucracy, competitive licensing fees, and simplified registration processes, getting your trade license in Sharjah Mainland is easier than ever. Plus, with recent changes in ownership laws, many businesses can now be 100% foreign-owned, removing the need for a local sponsor.
Dubai and Abu Dhabi might be big business hubs, but their office rental costs can be sky-high. In Sharjah, you get more space for your money, whether it’s a small office, a retail outlet, or a warehouse. Lower operational costs mean higher profits and more flexibility, especially for startups and SMEs looking to grow without burning through their budgets.
Unlike free zones, where companies are limited to operating within designated areas, Sharjah Mainland businesses can trade freely across the UAE. This means:
Thinking about a business setup in Ajman? You’re making a great choice! Ajman is one of the most entrepreneur-friendly locations in the UAE, offering a low-cost, high-reward environment for businesses of all sizes. Whether launching a startup or expanding an existing venture, company formation in Ajman is smooth and hassle-free. Here’s why setting up in Ajman Mainland is a smart move:
With recent business-friendly regulations, foreign investors can now own 100% of their business in many sectors—no need for a local sponsor! This means you have complete control over your company, higher profit retention, and the freedom to run your business on your terms. If you’re looking for independence and long-term stability, company formation in Ajman gives you exactly that.
Unlike free zone companies with trade restrictions, Ajman Mainland businesses can operate anywhere in the UAE and beyond. Whether in retail, services, or trading, you can freely work with local companies, win government contracts, and tap into global markets. If business expansion is your goal, Ajman puts no restrictions on your growth!
One of the biggest reasons entrepreneurs choose business setup in Ajman is the affordable costs. Ajman offers lower trade license fees, cheaper office rentals, and minimal operational expenses than Dubai and Abu Dhabi. This means you can start your business with less capital while enjoying all the benefits of a UAE mainland company. Perfect for startups and SMEs that want to grow without breaking the bank!
Worried about a long, complicated registration process? No need! Company formation in Ajman is quick, simple, and efficient. With fast approvals, digital documentation, and minimal paperwork, you can get your trade license and start operating within days. No unnecessary red tape—just a straightforward process to get your business up and running quickly.
At Diac, we make the business setup process in Ajman Mainland stress-free. From trade license applications to legal documentation, we handle everything so you can focus on growing your business. Ready to start? Let’s make your business a reality in Ajman today!
Starting a business in Sharjah Mainland is smart, but getting the process right is important to avoid delays and unnecessary costs. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a startup, or an established business looking to expand, setting up in Sharjah Mainland has many advantages—full market access, lower setup costs, and the ability to trade freely across the UAE.
To make your journey smooth and hassle-free, here’s a simple step-by-step guide to registering your business in Sharjah Mainland:
First, you need to decide what kind of business you want to run. The Sharjah Economic Development Department (SEDD) lists approved business activities covering everything from trading and manufacturing to professional services and consultancy. Your choice determines the type of trade license you’ll need, so picking the right category is crucial.
If you’re unsure which category your business falls under, our experts at Diac can help you choose the best option based on your goals.
Your business name is your brand identity, so you’ll need to register it with SEDD. The name should be:
Once approved, your trade name is reserved for six months, giving you enough time to proceed with the registration process.
Before you move forward, you need SEDD’s initial approval to ensure your business activity aligns with regulations. Some businesses—like healthcare, food, or finance—might also require external approvals from specific authorities.
For example:
If you’re in a regulated industry, our team at Diac can handle the paperwork and approvals for you!
The Memorandum of Association (MOA) is a legal document that outlines the ownership structure, business activities, and shareholder agreements. If your business requires a local sponsor, this document will also include their details.
The MOA must be notarized and signed before proceeding to the next step.
A physical office is mandatory for all businesses in Sharjah Mainland. The type of office space you need depends on your business activity and licensing requirements. Whether you need a small office, a shop, or a warehouse, you must sign a tenancy contract and register it with Ejari.
Need help finding an affordable office space? We can assist you in securing the perfect location for your business.
Now, it’s time to submit your trade license application to SEDD. You’ll need to provide:
Once everything is approved, SEDD will issue your trade license, officially allowing you to operate in Sharjah Mainland.
Depending on your business activity, you may need final approvals from government bodies before starting operations.
For example:
If your business falls under a regulated industry, we’ll ensure you get all the necessary approvals without hassle.
Once you have your trade license, you can start running your business legally! You can now:
Starting a business in Sharjah Mainland is smart, but like any company setup, you need the right paperwork to make it official. Getting your documents ready in advance will help you avoid delays and speed up the process.
Whether you’re a solo entrepreneur, a startup, or a large corporation, here’s what you’ll need to get started:
of Shareholders and Managers every business owner and manager needs to provide a clear copy of their passport. If your company has multiple shareholders, you’ll need passport copies for each of them.
If any of the shareholders or managers are UAE residents, they’ll need to submit a valid Emirates ID copy for verification.
Before registering your company, you need to reserve your business name with the Sharjah Economic Development Department (SEDD). Once approved, they’ll issue a Trade Name Approval Certificate, which you’ll need for the next steps.
The MOA is a key legal document that outlines your company’s ownership structure, business activities, and roles of shareholders. It must be signed and notarized before moving forward.
Every company in Sharjah Mainland needs a physical office space. You’ll need to provide a signed lease agreement (Ejari) to confirm your company’s official location. This also has to be registered with Sharjah Municipality.
Once you’ve submitted your business details, SEDD will issue an Initial Approval Certificate confirming that your business activity is approved. This step is crucial before getting your trade license.
Some business activities require special approvals from government authorities. Here are a few examples:
Not sure if your business needs extra approvals? Don’t worry—Diac can handle everything for you!
One of the biggest advantages of starting a business in Sharjah Mainland is that it’s more affordable compared to Dubai while still offering great growth opportunities. However, the total setup cost depends on several factors, including:
Typically, the cost to set up a business in Sharjah Mainland ranges from AED 15,000 to AED 25,000, which includes:
When setting up a business in Sharjah Mainland, one of the first things you’ll need is to choose the right business license. Your license determines what activities you can legally carry out, so getting it right is essential. Whether launching a trading business, setting up a factory, offering professional services, or stepping into the tourism industry, Sharjah has different license categories to match your business goals.
Here’s a simple breakdown of the main types of business licenses in Sharjah Mainland and how they fit different industries:
A Commercial License is your best option if you plan to buy and sell local or international goods. This includes import, export, wholesale, retail, or e-commerce businesses.
Example: If you’re launching an electronics trading business or an online fashion store, you’ll need a Commercial License.
If you plan to produce, assemble, or manufacture goods in Sharjah, you’ll need an Industrial License. This allows businesses to process raw materials and create finished products.
Example: A company manufacturing packaging materials, furniture, or food products in Sharjah would require an Industrial License
A professional license is the best fit if your business provides services instead of selling products. This is ideal for skilled professionals, consultants, and businesses offering specialized services.
Example: A law firm, digital marketing agency, or IT consultancy would need a Professional License.
With Sharjah’s booming tourism sector, a Tourism License is a must for hospitality, travel, and entertainment businesses. This is the license you need if you plan to run a hotel, tour company, or travel agency.
Example: A company offering desert safari tours, cultural experiences, or hotel accommodations in Sharjah would need a Tourism License.
No matter what industry you’re passionate about, Sharjah Mainland provides the right environment for business growth and success. Thinking of starting your business? Let Diac take care of the entire setup process so you can focus on what matters most; growing your business!
Starting a business in Ajman Mainland should be easy, fast, and stress-free—and that’s exactly what we make happen at Diac. With 14+ years of experience, we’ve helped thousands of entrepreneurs and businesses set up and grow successfully. Here’s why we’re the right choice for your business journey:
With over a decade of experience in Ajman Mainland business setup, we know exactly how to navigate approvals, avoid delays, and get things done quickly. Our expertise ensures that you don’t waste time or money on unnecessary steps.
Setting up a business can feel overwhelming, but with us, it’s smooth and hassle-free. From trade license applications to government approvals, paperwork, and visas, we handle it all. You focus on your business, and we’ll handle the rest!
We believe that starting a business shouldn’t cost a fortune. Our Ajman Mainland business setup packages are transparent, cost-effective, and tailored to fit your needs—with no hidden fees.
No one wants to wait weeks for approvals. Thanks to our strong connections with Ajman DED and other authorities, we make sure your business is up and running in no time.
We know that setting up a business comes with a lot of paperwork, and it can feel overwhelming. That’s why at Diac, we take care of all the legal formalities, approvals, and documentation—so you don’t have to stress about it.
Let’s get your Sharjah Mainland business up and running! Contact us today, and we’ll handle the entire process hassle-free!
Got Questions? Contact Us
A mainland company in Dubai is a business entity licensed by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). Unlike free zone firms, these companies can operate freely within the UAE and globally, without being confined to a specific region. That means you can reach a wider audience and tap into local, regional, and international markets.
Yes, recent reforms allow 100% foreign ownership of many mainland businesses in Dubai. While most activities no longer require a local partner, keep in mind that certain strategic sectors—like oil and gas or telecom—may still mandate local partnership. It’s best to consult with DET or a business setup consultant (like Diac!) to confirm if your business activity qualifies.
Dubai offers various business licenses on the mainland:
Each license matches specific activities, so choosing the right type is crucial to remain compliant.
Here’s a quick roadmap for mainland company formation:
Working with a trusted consultant can simplify these steps and help you avoid unnecessary hiccups.
Costs vary based on your business activities, license type, and office location. Expect fees for:
For a tailored estimate, talk to DET or a consultant who knows the ins and outs of Dubai’s mainland regulations.
Usually, you can complete the company formation process in 1 to 3 weeks, assuming your documents are in order and you respond quickly to any requests from authorities. If you’re well-prepared—or have an experienced partner—things can move even faster.
While mainland companies enjoy broad freedom, certain sectors do need extra approvals. For instance, if you’re in healthcare, you’ll likely need a nod from the Dubai Health Authority. Always verify additional requirements that might apply to your specific line of work.
Absolutely. One of the best perks of a mainland company is the ability to operate within Dubai, across the UAE, and globally. This opens up major export and import opportunities, so you can scale without worrying about geographic limitations.
Mainland companies must have a physical office space in Dubai. The size and location of your premises should match your chosen activities and DET rules. You’ll need a valid tenancy contract registered with Ejari, which will be part of your license application process.