Establishing a company in the Sharjah Free Zone

Establishing a company in the Sharjah Free Zone in cooperation with Itqan Company is considered a fruitful investment step and an excellent business opportunity. The Sharjah Free Zone is one of the most important economic destinations in the United Arab Emirates, as it provides a suitable and encouraging environment for the growth and expansion of companies. The free zone is characterized by simplified and facilitated legislation and regulatory procedures for establishing companies, which facilitates the process and saves time and efforts.

In addition, the Sharjah Free Zone offers many benefits and privileges that support companies and enhance their success. Advanced infrastructure and modern facilities ensure that companies have everything they need to run their businesses efficiently. The free zone also provides comprehensive logistics support, including integrated logistics, warehousing and distribution services, facilitating supply chain management and achieving significant cost savings.

Sharjah Free Zone also features easy access to regional and global markets. It acts as a center for international trade and facilitates import and export operations, broadening companies’ horizons and increasing opportunities for expansion and growth. In addition, the free zone provides a multicultural and diverse business environment, promoting cross-border cooperation and business partnerships.

In short, establishing a company in the Sharjah Free Zone in cooperation with Itqan Company opens doors to countless opportunities for success and expansion in the global business market. Investors enjoy superior legislative and logistical facilities, and strong government support, making it an ideal choice for companies wishing to succeed and achieve their business goals.

Privileges of establishing a company in the Sharjah Free Zone

Establishing a company in the Sharjah Free Zone is an exciting and beneficial investment opportunity for investors seeking to expand their business and achieve success. The Sharjah Free Zone is considered one of the leading economic zones in the United Arab Emirates, providing a variety of privileges and facilities that support the success of companies and enhance their growth. Below we will review some of the main advantages of establishing a company in the Sharjah Free Zone:

• Commercial Freedom: The free zone provides a free and open trading environment, where investors enjoy the freedom to establish and operate companies flexibly, without excessive government interference. This provides companies with flexibility and freedom in making business decisions and implementing growth strategies.
• Facilitated legislation: The legislation and regulatory procedures in the Sharjah Free Zone are considered easy and simple, which facilitates and eases the process of establishing and registering a company. Investors enjoy fast and efficient procedures for obtaining the necessary licenses and permits to start a business.
• Distinctive logistics services: The free zone is characterized by advanced infrastructure and modern facilities that support companies in carrying out their work with high efficiency. Comprehensive logistics services are available, including warehousing, distribution, loading and unloading, which facilitates supply chain management and reduces operational costs.
• Privacy and Confidentiality: Sharjah Free Zone provides a safe business environment and investors are protected by privacy and commercial secrecy laws. Companies are given autonomy and the right to keep their business and financial information confidential.
• Access to regional and global markets: Sharjah Free Zone is located in a distinct strategic location, allowing companies to access regional and global markets easily. The presence of sea ports and airports close to the free zone provides the possibility of facilitating import and export operations.
• Tax exemptions: Companies registered in the Sharjah Free Zone enjoy important tax privileges, as they are exempt from income taxes, customs taxes, and value-added tax (VAT), which contributes to increasing the company’s profitability and improving its competitiveness.
• Banking Facilities: Sharjah Free Zone provides a wide range of corporate banking facilities, including flexible banking, current bank accounts and trade finance. Investors have easy access to financing and banking facilities that support the company’s growth.

It should be noted that these benefits and privileges may vary slightly from one free zone to another in Sharjah, so it is recommended to check the specific laws and regulations of each free zone before establishing the company. It is also recommended to consult with a legal expert or business consultant to ensure full understanding of the specific procedures, requirements and benefits of establishing a company in the Sharjah Free Zone.

Documents necessary to establish a company in the free zone 

Establishing a company in the Sharjah Free Zone is an exciting investment opportunity for success and expansion in the business market. The free zone is characterized by an encouraging business environment and facilitating legislation, making it an ideal destination for investors seeking to establish their companies. But before embarking on this process, there is a set of necessary documents that must be prepared and submitted to the relevant authorities. Below we will review some basic documents for establishing a company in the Sharjah Free Zone:

• Registration application form: The registration application form must be submitted to the responsible authorities in the free zone. The form must be filled out with personal information and details related to the company to be established.
• Copy of passport: A copy of the passport must be provided to the shareholders and directors involved in establishing the company. The copy must be current and valid.
• A copy of the lease contract: In the event of renting a space for the company’s headquarters, a copy of the lease contract for the free zone must be submitted as evidence of the availability of a suitable place to conduct business.
• Business and Investment Plan: A detailed business and investment plan must be submitted that explains the company’s goals and future plans, including financial and marketing projections.
• Financial records: The necessary financial records must be provided to prove the company’s financial capacity, such as bank account statements and recent financial reports.
• Legal authorization: If a lawyer or legal representative of the company is appointed, a legal authorization must be submitted attesting to their appointment and specifying their authority.

Be aware that these documents may vary slightly depending on the type of company being created and the business activities chosen. Therefore, it is recommended to consult with Itqan Company to ensure correct submission and compliance with the legal requirements in the Sharjah Free Zone.

Necessary procedures for establishing a company in the free zone

To establish a company in the Dubai Free Zone , the following procedures are usually required:

• Choosing a free zone: Choose the free zone that suits your business activity and requirements. There are several free zones in Dubai, such as Port Rashid for sea travel, Dubai International Airport, Jebel Ali Free Zone, and others.
• Choose the type of company: Select the type of company you want to establish in the free zone, such as a limited liability company (LLC), sole proprietorship, or subsidiary company.
• Submitting a registration application: Submit a registration application to the authority supervising the free zone. You will need to submit required documents, such as a copy of your passport, business plan, partnership agreement (if a joint venture), and other required financial and legal documents.
• Obtaining the license: After reviewing your application and submitted documents, your application will be processed and the commercial license will be issued if approved. The license can include a permit to trade within the free zone and a permit to trade outside the zone.
• Company establishment: Complete the company establishment procedures, such as opening a bank account for the company and securing an office or work space in the free zone. You may also need to obtain additional permits such as a work permit and residence permit for employees associated with the company.
• Compliance with laws and regulations: You must comply with local laws and regulations related to the free zone and your business activity. These obligations can include filing annual financial reports and adhering to labor and tax laws.

Local laws that must be adhered to in the free zone

Establishing a company in a free zone requires compliance with the local laws and regulations applicable in the specific free zone. In Sharjah, there are several free zones such as Sharjah Free Zone, Sharjah Media City Free Zone, Sharjah International Airport Free Zone, and others. Therefore, you must check the laws in force in the free zone in which you intend to establish your company. In general, local laws aim to regulate and facilitate business operations and stimulate investment in the free zone. Here are some common local laws that must be adhered to when establishing a company in the Sharjah Free Zone:

• Company Establishment Law: This law specifies the procedures and requirements necessary to establish companies in the free zone, including the permitted type of company, conditions for capital, shareholders, directors, and necessary licenses.
• Labor Law: Defines the rights and duties of employees and the employer, including working conditions, wages, working hours, vacations, and labor procedures.
• Tax Law: This law regulates the taxes applicable in the free zone, including income tax, value-added tax (VAT), and import and export taxes. Free zones may be exempt from certain taxes or provide specific tax concessions.
• Intellectual Property Laws: Intellectual property laws protect intellectual property rights such as trademarks, copyrights, and patents. You must comply with intellectual property laws and register your company’s intellectual property rights if necessary.
• Occupational safety and health laws: These laws stipulate the necessary procedures to ensure the safety and health of employees and workers in the free zone. Must adhere to occupational safety and health standards and follow legal practices required to maintain a safe work environment.

Companies must commit to following these laws, regulations and other local instructions that regulate their activity in the free zone. Laws and regulations may vary from one free zone to another and from one sector to another, so entrepreneurs should familiarize themselves with the legal requirements of the free zone in which they intend to operate.

How to establish a company in the Sharjah Free Zone

To establish a company in the Sharjah Free Zone, the following procedures must be followed:

• Choosing a free zone: There are several free zones in Sharjah such as the Sharjah Technology and Industrialization Zone (SAIF-Zone) and the Sharjah Free Trade Zone (SFTZ). Choose the free zone that suits your business activity and requirements.
• Choose the type of company: Select the type of company you wish to establish in the free zone, such as a limited liability company (LLC), sole proprietorship, or subsidiary company.
• Submitting a registration application: Submit a registration application to the authority supervising the free zone in Sharjah. You will need to submit required documents, such as a copy of your passport, business plan, partnership agreement (if a joint venture), and other required financial and legal documents.
• Obtaining the license: After reviewing your application and submitted documents, your application will be processed and the commercial license will be issued if approved. You will obtain a license that includes a permit to trade within the free zone and a permit to trade outside the zone.
• Company establishment: Complete the company establishment procedures, such as opening a bank account for the company and securing an office or work space in the free zone. You may also need to obtain additional permits such as a work permit and residence permit for employees associated with the company.
• Compliance with laws and regulations: You must comply with local laws and regulations related to the free zone and your business activity. These obligations can include filing annual financial reports and adhering to labor and tax laws.

Types of licenses in the Sharjah Free Zone 

Establishing a company in the Sharjah Free Zone provides many business and investment opportunities. Sharjah free zones provide a developed commercial environment and competitive advantages for companies wishing to expand their business in the emirate. To begin this process, you must obtain the necessary licenses required for your business. Free zone licenses are one of the key elements of setting up companies in the Sharjah Free Zone, as they determine the type of business you are allowed to conduct. There are a number of types of licenses that can be obtained, here are some common examples:

• General Trade License: Allows companies to practice general trade activities in various fields such as trade, distribution, e-commerce, and commercial agencies.
• Limited company license: Limited companies are allowed to establish a local company or a subsidiary in the free zone. These licenses include limited liability companies and public joint stock companies.
• Industrial companies license: allows companies to establish and operate industrial units in the free zone. This type of license includes various industries such as production, manufacturing, and assembly.
• Logistics Services License: Allows companies to provide logistical services such as warehousing, distribution and transportation in the free zone.
• Professional Services License: Allows professionals to obtain a license to provide professional services such as legal, financial, engineering, medical, and marketing consulting.

Our company’s role in establishing a company in the Sharjah Free Zone

There are many opportunities and advantages in establishing a company in the Sharjah Free Zone , and Itqan can be a strong partner for you in this exciting process. By cooperating with Itqan Company, you will enjoy the experience and knowledge they have in the field of company establishment and licensing in the Sharjah Free Zone.

Itqan Company works to provide support and advice to investors who wish to establish their companies in the free zone. Itqan’s team of experts will help you understand the legal requirements and procedures, coordinate with the relevant authorities, and obtain the necessary licenses for your business.

In addition, Itqan Company provides various services such as bookkeeping, accounting, tax consulting, marketing and recruitment. These services will help you facilitate your business management and enhance your business performance in the free zone.

Thanks to cooperation with Itqan Company, you will have the opportunity to build a successful and sustainable company in the Sharjah Free Zone. You will have the support and assistance you need at every step of the process, and you will benefit from a thriving business environment.

Frequently asked questions about establishing a company in the Sharjah Free Zone