Business Setup in Sharjah Mainland
Lower running costs, minutes from Dubai.
Sharjah sits next to Dubai and costs noticeably less to operate in, which makes it a practical base for trading companies, workshops and service businesses whose customers are spread across the northern emirates. Licences are issued by the Sharjah Economic Development Department.
Teerma advises on the activity list, arranges the tenancy your licence needs, files the application and completes immigration and labour registration so you can sponsor staff once the licence is issued.
Why businesses choose it
- Lower licence, office and warehouse costs than Dubai
- Close to Dubai’s ports, airports and customer base
- Well suited to trading, light industry and repair or maintenance services
- Full foreign ownership for most activities
- Family and staff visas sponsored under the company
Licence types
- Commercial — trading
- Professional — services and consultancy
- Industrial — workshops and light manufacturing
How long it takes
Usually 5–8 working days after initial approval.
Costs depend on your activity, visas and office. Use the cost calculator for an itemised estimate.
What we handle for you
Activity selection and trade name, initial approvals, the memorandum and licence application, tenancy or desk paperwork, establishment card, visas and Emirates ID, and the documents your bank will ask for. You get one point of contact and a clear list of what is needed from you.
Questions we are asked
Is an office required?
Yes, a registered tenancy is part of the licence. Shared offices are accepted for many service activities.
Can I move an existing company to Sharjah?
In most cases yes — we compare the cost of transferring against opening a branch and handle whichever route you choose.
Ready to start, or still comparing?
Tell us what you plan to do and how many visas you need. We will send the exact cost and the document list the same working day.
Talk to an advisor