The UAE's Industrial and Manufacturing Core
A Sharjah mainland license, issued by the Sharjah Economic Development Department (SEDD), positions your business in the industrial heart of the UAE. Benefit from lower operating costs and strategic logistical advantages.
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What is a Sharjah Mainland License?
A Sharjah mainland license allows your company to operate directly within the onshore economy of the Emirate. Governed by the Sharjah Economic Development Department (SEDD), this structure provides unrestricted access to the local market and the ability to establish your business in Sharjah's numerous industrial and commercial areas.
Choosing a mainland license is ideal for businesses in manufacturing, trading, and services that want to cater directly to the local population and industrial sectors. Unlike a Sharjah Free Zone company, a mainland entity has the freedom to operate anywhere in the UAE. For more details, see our main UAE Mainland Company Setup guide.
Why Choose a Sharjah Mainland Company?
Lower Operating Costs
Enjoy more affordable license fees, rent for commercial spaces, and overall operational expenses compared to Dubai.
Industrial Powerhouse
Access a well-developed infrastructure specifically designed for manufacturing, industrial, and trading businesses.
Strategic Port Access
Benefit from proximity to major logistical hubs, including Port Khalid, Khor Fakkan Port, and Sharjah International Airport.
Unrestricted Market Access
Trade directly with the entire UAE market and bid for both local and federal government contracts.
100% Foreign Ownership
Secure full ownership of your company for most commercial and industrial activities licensed by the SEDD.
Proximity to Dubai
Operate in a more cost-effective Emirate while remaining just a short drive from the bustling market of Dubai.
Our Sharjah Mainland Setup Process
Activity & Structure Consultation
We help you select the right business activities and legal structure (e.g., LLC) compliant with SEDD regulations.
Trade Name & Initial Approval
Our team handles the application for your trade name reservation and secures the mandatory Initial Approval from the SEDD.
MOA & Tenancy Contract
We assist in drafting your Memorandum of Association (MOA) and securing a registered tenancy contract for your office or facility.
Final Submission & License Issuance
After submitting all notarized documents, the SEDD issues your official Sharjah mainland trade license.
Post-License Support
Our service continues with managing your Establishment Card, processing your residence visas, and offering assistance for your corporate bank account.
Client Feedback
We needed a mainland license in Sharjah for our trading business. Their team was efficient, transparent, and handled all the SEDD approvals without any issues. A very smooth process from start to finish.
Ibrahim Al-Fahim, CEO, BuildRight Materials Trading
Sharjah Mainland FAQs
What is the SEDD?
The Sharjah Economic Development Department (SEDD) is the government body in charge of issuing licenses and regulating all business activities for mainland (onshore) companies in the Emirate of Sharjah.
Is a physical office mandatory for a Sharjah mainland license?
Yes, similar to other Emirates, a registered physical address with a valid tenancy contract is a compulsory requirement for obtaining a mainland license in Sharjah.
Why is Sharjah considered good for industrial businesses?
Sharjah has numerous dedicated industrial areas with robust infrastructure, lower utility and labor costs, and excellent connectivity to seaports, making it an ideal and cost-effective base for manufacturing and heavy trading.
Can I open a branch of my Sharjah mainland company in Dubai?
Yes. One of the key benefits of a mainland license is the ability to easily open branches in other Emirates, including Dubai, allowing you to expand your business presence across the UAE.
Establish Your Business in Sharjah
Take advantage of Sharjah's cost-effective and strategic business environment. Contact our consultants for a free consultation on your mainland company formation.
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