Duty-free business area here just means a UAE free zone. To register: pick a free zone that fits your business activity, choose a license type, submit your documents (passport copies, application form) to that zone's authority, and once approved you'll receive your license and can begin visa processing Helen & Sons handles this end to end for you.
Business Setup in SAIF Zone.
Start Your Business in SAIF Zone (Sharjah Airport International Free Zone) with Helen and Sons. Get expert guidance, fast company formation & 100% ownership.
Want to Know How?
Want to Know How?
Company Setup in SAIF Zone
The Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF Zone) is one of the most famous and renowned free zones in the UAE. It is close to Sharjah International Airport and only 20 minutes from Dubai International Airport. It is the best destination for investors who want to start or grow their business in the UAE.
At Helen and Sons, we specialize in company setup in SAIF Zone, helping investors establish their presence quickly and efficiently. The free zone provides fully equipped office spaces, modern warehouses, and flexible leasing options to support businesses of all sizes. Companies that do manufacturing, trading, logistics, packing, and re-export should think about starting a business in the SAIF Zone. Investors can own the whole business, not have to pay income tax, and receive a license rapidly. The SAIF Zone is a wonderful spot to start a business in Sharjah because rates are affordable (beginning at USD 2,960) and the area is hospitable to businesses. Our experts handle every part of the process, from the paperwork and licenses to the visas and PRO services, to make sure everything goes well from beginning to end. Helen and Sons can help you set up your business in the SAIF Zone if you wish to start one in the UAE. This is one of the top areas to do business in the UAE.
Types of Business Licenses in Sharjah Free Zone
Sharjah Free Zone offers different types of licenses depending on the nature of your business. Here are the main Sharjah Freezone license categories you can choose from:
Commercial or Trading License
Professional License
Designed for freelancers, consultants, and professionals, this license allows you to offer
specialized services. Examples include IT services, marketing, legal consultation, and
advisory businesses.
Service License
If your business provides service-based activities, this license is suitable. It covers
areas like logistics, education, hospitality, healthcare, and other service-oriented
companies.
Industrial License
This license is for businesses involved in manufacturing, production, or industrial
activities. It allows companies to set up factories, workshops, or production facilities
within Sharjah Free Zone.
How to Setup a Business in
Sharjah Free Zone
Starting a business in Sharjah Free Zone is easy when you follow these five steps
-
01
Choose Your License & Company Type
- Select your business activities based on your trade goals
- Choose the right structure: FZE, FZC, or Branch
-
02
Reserve Trade Name & Submit Application
- Reserve your unique trade name with the authority
- Submit your KYC documents and application forms
-
03
Select Facility & Pay Fees
- Choose your workspace: office, executive office, suite, or warehouse
- Complete the required payments for licensing
-
04
Licence Issuance & Visa Allocation
- Receive your Sharjah Freezone license once all requirements are met
- Open an immigration file and set visa allocations for investors and employees
-
05
Employee / Investor Visas & Bank Account
- Process entry permits, medical tests, Emirates IDs, and visa stamping
- Open a corporate bank account to manage finances efficiently
Benefits of Setting Up Business in SAIF Zone
Setting up your business in Sharjah Free Zone comes with a range of advantages designed to support growth, efficiency, and profitability
-
100% Repatriation of Capital & Profits
Enjoy full repatriation of your capital and profits. Move your earnings freely without restrictions.
-
100% Foreign Ownership
Fully own your business, maintaining complete control over operations and decision-making.
-
Free Transfer of Funds
Conduct international transactions with ease. The free zone allows seamless and unrestricted movement of funds.
-
Low-Cost Abundant Energy Supply
Reduce operational expenses with a readily available and cost-effective energy supply.
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No Currency Restrictions
Trade globally without limitations on currency conversions or transactions.
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Exemptions on Import and Export Duties
Enjoy 100% exemption on import and export duties, fostering a favorable trade environment.
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24-Hour Licensing Services
Benefit from streamlined and fast licensing procedures to start operations quickly.
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Affordable Lease Rents
Lower commercial space leasing costs make it easier for businesses to manage overheads.
-
Low-Cost Labor & Warehouse
Access skilled labor and affordable warehouse facilities within the free zone.
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Close to Major Ports & International Airport
Strategic access to ports and Sharjah International Airport ensures smooth logistics and trade operations.
SAIF Zone License Cost
The cost of a Sharjah Freezone license begins at AED 5,750+. Additional expenses may apply depending on your choice of office or warehouse space, multi-year visas, or higher visa quotas. It's also important to factor in initial setup fees and annual renewal charges to ensure your business operates smoothly from the start.
| Freezone | Visas | License Cost |
|---|---|---|
| SRTIP | 0 | AED 5,510 |
| SHAMS | 0 | AED 5,760 |
| SPC | 0 | AED 6,875 |
| HFZ | 1 | AED 11,000 |
Documents Required for Business Setup in SAIF Zone
1
Individuals / Shareholders
- Passport copy and passport-size photo
- Current UAE entry stamp / visa (if any)
- Proof of address (utility bill / bank statement)
- Proposed trade names and activities
2
Corporate Shareholders (if applicable)
- Certificate of incorporation & MOA/AOA
- Board resolution to establish the SAIF entity and appoint authorised signatory
- Certificate of incumbency / good standing
- Passport copy of UBOs / directors
3
After Licence (for visas)
- Establishment card, visa quota approval, Emirates ID / medical steps
Our Major Services in SAIF Zone
-
Company Formation & Renewals
- Company registration, license amendments, and renewals
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Visa Services
- Investor, employment, and family visas
- Visa renewal and cancellation support
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Tax & Compliance
- FTA portal registration
- VAT filing and compliance
- Corporate tax filing
- AML registration
-
Accounting & Bookkeeping
- Accounting and auditing services
- Bookkeeping
- Accounting software solutions
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Banking & Penalty Services
- Bank account opening assistance
- Penalty reconsideration services
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Additional Support
- Customs code registration
- Document attestation
- Legal translation
- Insurance (health, life, office, vehicle)
- Delivery, driver, and messenger services