Sharjah Free Zone Business Setup For Australian
Sharjah is where you can experience the cultural and historical side of the UAE, and it’s an ideal place for Australian entrepreneurs and small to medium-sized businesses to grow and compete in the region. Among the many options in the UAE, Sharjah Free Zone is preferred by Australian businesses due to its strategic location, affordability, and supportive policies.
Sharjah free zones are specialised economic zones within the emirate, designed to create a business-friendly environment for trade, investment, and entrepreneurship. These zones offer advanced infrastructure, cost-effective setup options, and industry-specific facilities – perfect for Australian businesses looking to expand into the UAE market.
Key sectors include:
- Information Technology and Innovation.
- Health Care & Education
- Media & Creative Sector
- Trading & Logistics Sector
- Manufacturing & Industrial Sector
Types of Free Zones in Sharjah
Hamriyah Free Zone, Sharjah: Hamriyah Free Zone is the most affordable option for business setup in Sharjah. This zone offers competitive incentives, a prime location near three seaports, and 100% foreign ownership. With a tax-free environment, cost-effective living, and no currency restrictions or customs duties, it is ideal for Australian businesses in sectors like oil & gas, shipping, automotive, pharmaceuticals, and food processing.
Warehouse options range from 276 sq m to 614 sq m, with environmental and safety standards met. Ample parking, IT-ready infrastructure, and power capacities are available to support Australian import-export and manufacturing businesses.
Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF): Located next to Sharjah International Airport, SAIF Zone provides access to over 2 billion consumers in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). With tax-free benefits, 100% ownership, and strategic logistics connectivity, SAIF is ideal for Australian businesses expanding their trade footprint. Warehouse sizes are similar to Hamriyah, with modern amenities and IT-ready setups suitable for SMEs and larger Australian enterprises.
Warehouse sizes similar to Hamriyah, modern amenities, and IT-ready setups, suitable for SMEs and larger enterprises.
Sharjah Media City: Also known as SHAMS Free Zone, it is one of the fastest-growing zones in Sharjah. While primarily focused on media businesses, SHAMS offers licenses for trading, professional services, and holding companies. It is ideal for Australian media startups, freelancers, and agencies, as it requires only one shareholder.
Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone. This is a hub for paper, printing, distribution, and publishing, offering tax-free privileges and full commercial licenses. Australian businesses in publishing and related industries can set up easily here with cost-effective solutions.
The Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park Free Zone: SRTIP connects academia, government, and industry in one location to foster innovation and R&D. It is ideal for Australian businesses focused on technology, research, and innovative solutions, offering business growth with state-of-the-art facilities and strategic partnerships.
Benefits of Business Registration in Sharjah Free Zone for Australians
Sharjah Free Zones are not just limited to media businesses; they are known for nurturing creative talent and supporting startups. These zones are perfect for Australian entrepreneurs and SMEs seeking a cost-effective environment to expand in the UAE and the Middle East.
Cost-effective: Sharjah Free Zones offer one of the most affordable business setup options in the UAE, making them attractive for Australian startups and SMEs looking for low-cost market entry..
Complete ownership: Australian investors can have 100% ownership of their company without needing a local sponsor. Full repatriation of capital and profits is allowed, making this a big advantage for Australian businesses expanding internationally.
Scalable: You can add up to 20 employee visas under a single trade license, ideal for growing Australian companies.
Flexible: Australians do not need a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their current sponsor to become shareholders in a new UAE company, simplifying the registration process.
Multiple activities under one license: You can include up to 5 different business activities in one license, providing flexibility for diversified Australian businesses.
Strategic location: Sharjah has easy access to major markets in the Middle East, Asia, and Africa, making it ideal for Australian exporters and global businesses. The emirate has well-developed ports, airports, and highways for smooth logistics and trade.
Sector-specific zones: Sharjah Free Zones cater to various industries, including Sharjah Publishing City, the world’s first publishing-dedicated free zone. Australian entrepreneurs can benefit from these sector-specific zones with customised infrastructure and networking opportunities.
Types of Business License in International City
Dubai International City offers various licenses to attract Australian entrepreneurs and investors looking to tap into the UAE market. The main license types are:
For businesses involved in industrial and manufacturing activities. You need a physical office in Dubai International City to get this license. It covers activities like food products manufacturing, furniture production, and packaging solutions – ideal for Australian manufacturers expanding into the UAE.
Allows businesses to buy and sell goods and services within Dubai International City. Activities include import-export operations, retail stores, logistics, and wholesale trading. This is ideal for Australian businesses seeking global reach from the UAE.
For businesses offering specialised services, including management consultancy, law firms, accounting and auditing, educational institutions, healthcare providers, and other professional services. Australian professionals setting up in Dubai International City can use this license to access the UAE service sector.
Steps for Sharjah Free Zone Company Formation in UAE
Start by understanding your business model and requirements. Which Sharjah Free Zone—Hamriyah Free Zone, SAIF Zone, SHAMS or SRTIP—fits your operational needs and sector. This is more important for Australian investors and entrepreneurs looking for the best fit for their expansion plans.
Create a business plan outlining your objectives, market strategy and financial projections. This will not only guide your business setup process but also help you to get approvals from Sharjah Free Zone Authority.
A business name that matches your brand identity is a must. The name should reflect your business activity, not already registered or in use and should not have prohibited or inappropriate words. This is more important for Australian business owners to establish a good presence in the UAE market.
You will need to complete the business setup formalities for Sharjah Free Zone by getting the shareholders to sign the documents and submit the required papers to the relevant authorities. This is more important for Australian business owners to ensure the company is registered properly as it meets both UAE and Australian regulatory requirements for a compliant and operational business.
Flyingcolour® helps with company registration in UAE. We provide services for Mainland, Free Zone or Offshore in all Emirates of UAE. We also help with opening bank accounts with all local banks. Our team works with UAE Government Departments and banks to make the business setup process easy for Australians.