The UAE is becoming more popular as a business hub with each passing day. All of its emirates are famous for both business and tourism. One of the top choices for business owners is to start a company in the country’s third largest emirate. This is Sharjah - a place that is known for its beautiful nature, as well as its unique buildings and modern facilities. To run a business in this disturbing city, you need to first get a trade license in Sharjah.

Starting a company in the UAE is a simple process, and Sharjah also follows the same process. Here, we will explain the steps, key rules, and costs you need to know to obtain a trade license in the city.

What Is a Trade License?

A trade license is a legal document that gives the person or company the right to run a selected type of business in the UAE. In Sharjah, the Sharjah Economic Development Department (SEDD) issues a trade license and handles all related approvals in Emirates.

Documents Required for Sharjah Trade License

• Trade License Form

• Copy of Site Plan Approved by Sharjah Municipality

• Copy of Certified Rental Agreement

• Approval from Ministry of Economy

• Trade Name Certificate

• Brand Certificate

• Certified No Objection Letter

• Service Agent Agreement Approved by Legal Affairs

• Approvals from Government Departments

• Copies of Residence Permit, Passport or Visa for Foreigners

• Official Technical Report

• Signed Copies of National Identity Card, Passport and Family Book for UAE Nationals

• Partnership Agreement Certified by Notary Public

• Technical Check Report

How to Get a Trade License in Sharjah

Starting a business in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates may seem daunting at first. But if you follow the appropriate steps, you can easily complete the process and achieve good results.

This guide explains how to apply for a UAE trade license, what rules you need to follow, and what steps you need to take to set up a company in Sharjah.

Follow these steps to get your Sharjah trade license:

Step 1. Select a Business Category

The first step is to decide which category your company falls into. You can choose from these three options:

• Industrial
• Professional

Step 2. Select Business Activities

Next, you need to choose what activities your company will be carrying out. The license can contain up to ten activities. You must select these from the approved list of Sharjah business activities.

Step 3. Choose a Business Name

Next, you must decide on a business name. When choosing a name, you must follow the naming rules set by the authorities.

Step 4. Get Initial Approval

The next step is to apply for the initial approval from the Sharjah Economic Development Department (SEDD).

You can submit an application online through the Sharjah Municipality Smart Portal.

Step 5. Register The Trade Name

Once your name is approved, you need to officially register it. This step is important before moving on to the next stage.

Step 6. Rent Office Space

Next, you will need to rent office space for your business. Share the site plan with the municipality and get approval before signing the lease. You can choose Sharjah Mainland or Free Zone.

Step 7. Prepare all the documents

Now, gather all the necessary papers and get them approved by the appropriate authorities.

Step 8. Submit Paperwork and Application

Submit your completed documents and forms to the government office to proceed with the licensing process.

Step 9. Pay The Fee

Once your application passes inspection, pay the fee through the government’s online portal.

Step 10. Get License Approval

After completing the approval and name registration, go to the Licensing Department of the DED.

The department checks your license details and updates them if necessary.

Step 11. Pay the Final License Fee

After approval, you will receive a payment voucher. Once you pay the amount, you will receive your trade license and registration certificate.

After obtaining the license, you can also register your company’s trademark in the UAE. Many Sharjah businesses later expanded to Dubai and other emirates.

If you are planning to grow, you can find various company licenses in Dubai. For expert guidance, you can contact UAE business setup experts like DBS Group.

Cost of Obtaining a Trade License in Sharjah

The cost of obtaining a trade license in Sharjah may vary greatly depending on several factors, starting at 5,000* AED and goes up to 30,000* AED or more. The main factors that determine the price are the type of license (commercial, professional, industrial or e-commerce), the business activity you choose, the structure of the company, the location (mainland or free zone) and whether you need office space.

Contact DBS Business Setup for a clear price and tailored assistance to find the exact price according to your needs.

Types of Trade Licenses in Sharjah

Sharjah offers different types of trade licenses depending on the type of business activity. These include the following:

Professional License:

Businesses that provide professional services, including consultancy, legal work or accounting, must obtain a professional license.

Commercial License:

You will need this license if your business deals with trading activities such as buying and selling products, importing goods or exporting to other markets.

Industrial License:

This license is required for companies that focus on industrial or manufacturing activities such as manufacturing, assembling or packaging items.

Read Next: How to Open an Emirates NBD Account in 2025: A Complete Guide

Benefits of Starting a Business in Sharjah

Starting a business in Sharjah offers many benefits, making it a preferred choice for entrepreneurs and investors. These benefits include:

• Free currency access

• Choice of office spaces

• Unlimited visa options

• Low startup capital

• No audits required

• Various types of business activities

• Very low taxes

• Free storage facilities

• Access to local markets

• Availability of skilled workforce

• Full profit return

Start Your Business Journey With DBS in Sharjah

Do you want to set up a reliable company in Sharjah? Want to get a new trade license in Sharjah? Your search ends here! DBS Business Setup is your trusted partner for complete company formation services in the UAE. From company registration in the UAE to obtaining your licenses, visas and corporate bank accounts, DBS Group ensures that you get set up in Sharjah without any hassle. We ensure that your business starts smoothly by complying with all UAE regulations.

Don’t let paperwork and legal steps slow you down. Let us handle everything for you!

Further Reading: UID Number In UAE: How To Check & Get UAE Emirates ID (A Guide)