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            General Trading License in Sharjah: Step-by-Step Guide

      Business License
      Ritish Sharma 31 May 2023 5 minutes

          Table of Contents

         1. Types of General Trading License Sharjah
         2. Why is Sharjah a good place to launch a business?
         3. Various Business Structures in Sharjah
         4. Documents Required for Trade License
         5. How to get a General Trading License in Sharjah?
         6. Cost of getting a trade license in Sharjah
         7. How can I get my trade license renewed?
         8. Shuraa India can help you obtain a Sharjah trading license.

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            Table of Contents

           1. Types of General Trading License Sharjah
           2. Why is Sharjah a good place to launch a business?
           3. Various Business Structures in Sharjah
           4. Documents Required for Trade License
           5. How to get a General Trading License in Sharjah?
           6. Cost of getting a trade license in Sharjah
           7. How can I get my trade license renewed?
           8. Shuraa India can help you obtain a Sharjah trading license.

          Do you intend to launch your company in Sharjah? If so, you must acquire a trade license. This document gives you permission to carry out business operations in the Sharjah emirate. Along with the many trade license classifications, there are also the commercial activities that each license permits. Continue reading to get a thorough explanation of how to start a business in Sharjah and how to obtain a general trading license there. Let’s get going!

          Obtaining a license is one of the requirements in the United Arab Emirates whenever you intend to launch a business. We will provide a thorough explanation of the application process for a Sharjah business license in this article.

          The Department of Economic Development ( DED ), with institutional assistance from the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, is the statutory agency that oversees and governs the licensing procedures of any organization in Sharjah. Certain Ministries and other governmental authorities must, nevertheless, approve certain economic activities.

          For instance, the Central Bank of the UAE must grant permission to banks and financial institutions, while the Ministries of Economy and Commerce, Finance and Industry, and Health must grant permission to insurance companies and related organizations, respectively.

          Types of General Trading License Sharjah

          In Sharjah, there are three different categories of general trading licenses. As follows:

            * Commercial License – Applies to All Activities
            * Professional License Protecting occupations, artisans, services, and craftspeople
            * Industrial License – To start manufacturing and industrial operations

          Other unique licenses, such as business operation permits and entrepreneurial business licenses, are also granted by the authorities under certain conditions.

          Why is Sharjah a good place to launch a business?

          If you haven’t already thought about it, there are several benefits to establishing your company in Sharjah, such as:

            * Your company can repatriate 100% of its profits.
            * Customs charges and taxes on imports and exports are not applicable to businesses.
            * Strong infrastructure and great chances for business networking.
            * Excellent storage and industrial facilities.

          Sharjah’s businesses may not be as big as those in other emirates, but they are nevertheless making great strides. Every year, Sharjah draws business owners and start-ups since it is one of the top business hubs in the area, right after Abu Dhabi and Dubai. As a result, the numerous business opportunities in this emirate might be advantageous for investors and business owners.

          Various Business Structures in Sharjah

          The paperwork and requirements you must meet to obtain a general trading license depend on the kind of business you are operating in Sharjah.

          Businesses in Sharjah can be governed by a variety of corporate arrangements. These consist of:

            * LLC, or a Limited Liability Company .
            * Company in partnership.
            * Branch of a foreign company.
            * Branch of a local company.

          No matter what type of business structure you have, there are a few common requirements you must fulfill to obtain a trade license in Sharjah. These consist of:

            * Choosing a business name.
            * Submitting extra paperwork with the last trade license application.

          For instance, a GCC corporate branch needs verified documents from both the UAE Embassy in the Gulf State and the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

          There are additional criteria and documentation needed for both public and private shareholding firms. First, the application form needs to adhere to the requirements set forth in the Commercial Registry Act and its rules. Contact a company formation consultant right now for more details on business structures, needs, and owner obligations.

          Documents Required for Trade License

          Required Documents for Sharjah Trade License

            * Land ownership certificate or map.
            * Licenses form.
            * Approval from the ministry of economy.
            * Photocopy of certified tenancy contract.
            * Trade name certificate.
            * Service agent contract approved by the legal affairs section.

          How to get a General Trading License in Sharjah?

          Step-by-Step Process to Obtain a General Trading License in Sharjah.

          Step 1: Define Your Business Activities

          Identify the goods you’ll trade, like cosmetics or construction materials. The Sharjah Economic Development Department (SEDD) provides a list, but confirm specifics with experts.

          Step 2: Choose a Legal Structure

          Decide on a structure—sole proprietorship, LLC, or branch office. Your choice impacts ownership and liability, so weigh options carefully.

          Step 3: Select and Register a Trade Name

          Pick a unique name following UAE guidelines—no offensive terms allowed. Reserve it through the SEDD for official use.

          Step 4: Secure a Business Premises

          Rent or buy a commercial space approved by Sharjah Municipality. A tenancy contract is essential for your application.

          Step 5: Gather Required Documents

          Collect passports, visas, tenancy agreements, and any special approvals. Thorough paperwork speeds up the process.

          Step 6: Receive Your License

          After review, the SEDD issues your license. You’re now ready to start trading legally in Sharjah!

          We’ve set up 500+ trading companies across all UAE emirates — get a free license recommendation for Sharjah or Dubai

          Cost of getting a trade license in Sharjah

          Starting a general trading business in Sharjah can cost between AED 15,000 and AED 30,000, depending on various factors, type of license, such as office rent, visa fees, and other expenses related to business setup. Contact the Sharjah Economic Development Department for a more precise estimate. For additional information, speak with one of our advisers for business creation.

          Get your Sharjah general trading license — free cost estimate

          How can I get my trade license renewed?

          Sharjah trade license renewal cost can range from AED 10,000 to AED 20,000 or more. It’s crucial to renew your Sharjah trade license each year because it only lasts for one year. In Sharjah, a company cannot conduct business without a current trading license. The steps to renew your trade license are as follows:

          Assemble the following paperwork:

            * Renewing a Sharjah trade license form.
            * Copies of passports or a UAE National ID.
            * UAE citizens’ photocopies of family books.
            * Contract for a lease.

          Shuraa India can help you obtain a Sharjah trading license.

          Our staff will be happy to talk with you about your business project so we can help it succeed if you’re hoping to benefit from the vibrant business climate in Sharjah.

          The knowledgeable business setup advisors at Shuraa India can help with many aspects of starting a business, including how to apply for a general trading license in Sharjah.

          For a free consultation, get in touch with us today. We are eager to support you as you start your business!

                About the author

                Ritish Sharma

                Ritish Sharma is a professional writer and UAE business advisor with expertise in corporate regulations and company setup. He helps Indian entrepreneurs understand and navigate the UAE’s dynamic business landscape, simplifying complex legal and business concepts. With actionable insights and practical guidance, Ritish empowers Indian businesses to establish, grow, and succeed in the UAE market confidently.

                View all posts

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