How to Obtain a Trade License in Sharjah: 2024 Guide

If you want to start a business in this emirate, you will need a Sharjah trade license which will allow operations in the country. However, you must know the types of licenses depending on the commercial activity you want to carry out. Thus, you can choose the one that best suits you according to your criteria and type of company. In this article, we will help you know the Sharjah trade license cost, the process, and how to obtain it. Moreover, we include all the details that you will need to know so that everything goes correctly. Eligibility Criteria for Obtaining a Trade License In Sharjah, the body that regulates and supervises licensing is the Sharjah Economic Development Department or DED. Likewise, the DED issues business licenses and permits for businesses operating in the emirate. Additionally, it includes mainland Sharjah and ranges from retail businesses to large industries. However, there are eligibility criteria for a trade license Sharjah which you can find out below: Citizens over 18 years of age Must not have a criminal record Start a business permitted by law Essential Documents for Your Trade License The general trading license in Sharjah requires certain documentation for issuance. However, for each specific type of business license, you will need additional documentation. Below, we show you the general documentation that you will require for said license: Certified land ownership map License form Sharjah Ministry of Economy Consent Name certification of your business Service agent contract accepted by the legal affairs section Copies with signatures of the national identity document of the holders of Emirates nationality, family book, and passports. A letter certifying the brand Consent from government entities to negotiate Technical evaluation with an official report Copies of the place of residence, visa for foreigners, or passport Certified letter of no objection Partnership contract certified by a notary public Who Qualifies for a Sharjah Trade License A business license is an authorization issued by DED to start commercial business operations in Sharjah. Therefore, several types of business licenses cover a specific type of business activity. Thus, we will show you below which are the different licenses that you can obtain for your business: Commercial license It is the Sharjah trade license that will allow you to import, distribute, export, and store your products in the country. In addition, it is the most suitable license if your industry will be dedicated to commercial activity. Below are the specific requirements for this license: Formal request A business plan Passport copies Proof of address Additionally, to obtain the license you will have to have a physical space for the company’s offices. Service license If your business is to offer some type of professional service or consulting, this will be the license you will need. Likewise, with it, you can cover accounting, consulting marketing, and IT services. Additionally, along with the trade license Sharjah, it requires the above requirements and office spaces. However, with the services license, you will not be able to participate in any activity outside of those permitted. Industrial license The industrial license is indicated if your business is manufacturing, producing, or processing products in the country. Likewise, with the license, you will be able to find manufacturing industries, assembly lines, and other facilities necessary for this activity. Additionally, the requirements for this license are as follows: Industrial premises suitable for the operation of the company Formal application Business plan Passport copies Proof of address In the same way, it must comply with safety and environmental regulations, and with specific guidelines, production standards, and industrial activities. Media license This license is for companies dedicated to creative media such as publications, advertising, and other related activities. Additionally, the license will only allow you to work with the business activities covered by this license. Freelance permit The freelance permit is a Sharjah trade license to work independently in the country. The activities covered by this license are photographers, designers, and writers, among others, and its requirements are the general ones for commercial licenses. E-commerce license The e-commerce license is a license that you will need if your business will take place online. For example, sales of services via a platform or sale of goods through this means. Proven Tips for a Successful Application To be successful with your business license application, you will need to have your regulatory documents in order. Additionally, you can seek the help of professionals specialized in this and other types of licenses in Sharjah. Likewise, it must take into account the updates to the procedures established by the authorities both on the continent and in the fringe areas of this emirate. Staying Informed: 2023 Updates You must be up to date with the procedures for a Sharjah business license, as it is the legal document you need. Furthermore, it is the first thing you must do officially if you want to market in the said Emirate. Likewise, it is prohibited by law to carry out any industrial activity without possessing the corresponding licenses. Also, after purchasing it, you will have to pay attention to its renewal so that your company can continue working in Sharjah. Hence, it is the DED that will monitor your licenses and process the renewal when you request it. However, there are economic activities for which you will need the license and approval of other government agencies. Below you can see who will require the latter in particular: For pharmaceutical and health companies, they must request authorization from the Ministry of Health. Financial institutions will need approval from the UAE Central Bank. In the case of commercial operations of industries, the Ministry of Finance and Industry must approve them. For businesses that offer insurance and related services, they must receive authorization from the Ministry of Economy and Commerce. Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for a Sharjah Trade License Below, we will show you the step by step to apply for a Sharjah trade license: 1. Identify a business category To apply for the license,