Growing Economy
Sharjah is a growing economy and a top destination for foreign investors including many from Pakistan. Sharjah Mainland is perfect for Pakistani entrepreneurs due to its business friendly government policies, full foreign ownership allowed in many sectors, strategic location, strong market connectivity, affordable lifestyle and many investor benefits.
Strategic Location
One of the biggest advantages of Sharjah is its international airport. It is also well connected to seaports on both the west and east coast of Arabian Gulf. Its strategic location provides direct access to North Africa and the Indian Ocean, massive trade opportunities for Pakistani exporters and businesses.
Business Setup
Business setup in Sharjah Mainland is regulated by Sharjah Department of Economic Development (DED) which has a list of approved business activities. While the mainland allows all business types, it is especially known for its industrial zones. For full guidance on industrial or commercial licenses, Pakistani entrepreneurs can contact Flyingcolour Business Setup Services.
Benefits of Business Setup in Sharjah Mainland
Sharjah Mainland offers tax benefits to foreign investors. Businesses with annual profits below AED 375,000* are tax free, so Pakistani entrepreneurs can maximize profit and re-invest in growth. This tax structure is very supportive for SMEs and startups.
Sharjah Mainland companies are governed by UAE law, so transparency and investor protection. DED is responsible for licensing and commercial activity, so the registration process is smooth and predictable. Sharjah is a safe place for Pakistani business owners to enter the UAE market.
Sharjah has pro-investment policies, so it’s easy for Pakistani companies and entrepreneurs to set up operations. Efficient company formation and low operational costs makes it ideal for new ventures and expanding businesses. Flyingcolour consultants will help Pakistani investors to manage the setup process hassle free.
Located between Dubai and Northern Emirates, Sharjah Mainland gives Pakistani entrepreneurs direct access to seaports, airports and GCC markets. Its location is very good for trade with Pakistan, Africa and the Middle East. Especially for import-export companies, logistics companies and SMEs.
Pakistani entrepreneurs will benefit from Sharjah’s multicultural society that values diversity and cooperation. Awareness of local customs and Islamic business practices will help to build trust. Partnering with Emirati sponsors and joining business networks will ensure long term success.
Types of Legal Structure in Sharjah Mainland
Limited Liability Company An LLC in Sharjah can have 2 to 50 shareholders. Each shareholder’s liability is limited to their capital contribution. Since June 2021, Pakistani investors can have 100% foreign ownership of Sharjah LLCs without a UAE national as a 51% sponsor. This has made mainland setups easier for Pakistani startups and SMEs.
Partnership Company A Partnership Company is another option for business setup in Sharjah Mainland. It requires a minimum of 2 UAE national partners, so it’s not available for foreign or Pakistani entrepreneurs. Partners share liabilities proportionate to their ownership stakes. This is mostly for professional or local trade businesses..
Local service agent/Sole proprietorship This structure allows individuals to run a business under their own name. However, non-UAE or non-GCC nationals — like most Pakistani entrepreneurs — must appoint a local service agent. The agent has no ownership or control but is required for formalities like licensing and labour matters.
Public/Private Shareholder Company In a Shareholding Company, capital is divided into equal tradable shares. Liability is limited to the value of the shares owned. Public Joint Stock Companies follow UAE company law, while Private Shareholding Companies offer more flexibility. This structure is best for large-scale Pakistani investments and expansions.
Types of Business Licenses in Sharjah Mainland
Industrial License is required for manufacturing or industrial activities in Sharjah Mainland. This includes food processing, textiles, metal fabrication and oil & gas manufacturing. Pakistani industrialists and exporters prefer this license to expand their production units in UAE.
Commercial License is required for businesses involved in trading, retail, wholesale, logistics and e-commerce. It allows import-export, warehousing, distribution and storage. Many Pakistani traders in electronics, FMCG and construction materials choose this license to scale up their activities in Sharjah’s trade sector.
Professional License is granted to individuals or companies providing professional services. This is perfect for consultants, IT professionals, teachers, medical practitioners and creative agencies. Pakistani entrepreneurs in accounting, legal or marketing can fully own their business with this license.
Documents Required for Company Registration in Sharjah
Board resolution for foreign companies (Pakistani companies expanding into the UAE)
Lease agreement to prove your office or commercial premises
Feasibility report (business plan and market study) — important for Pakistani SMEs
Sharjah DED application form
Copy of business plan including objectives, capital, services/products and expansion strategy
Power of attorney to authorise your business consultants (like Flyingcolour)
Bank reference letters from Pakistani or UAE banks to verify shareholder financial standing
Notarized Memorandum of Association and Articles of Association
Passport copies for all partners and managers involved, including Pakistani shareholders
Steps for Setup Your Company in Sharjah Mainland
Choose your business activity from Sharjah DED’s list (trading, consultancy, manufacturing, etc.)
Appoint a local service agent if required (especially for sole proprietorships or professional activities).
Choose your entity: LLC, sole proprietorship or public joint stock company.
Reserve and register a trade name as per DED guidelines.
Draft your Memorandum of Association and notarize it as per your structure.
Apply for initial approvals for your activity with DED.
Get any required clearance from relevant ministries depending on your activity (education, media, health, etc.).
Lease Agreement
Get an Ejari-registered lease for your office or shop.
Apply with the Ministry of Labour to hire employees under your company.
Submit all required documents to DED including MoA, lease, passports and approvals.
Pay licensing, registration and visa fees as required.
Collect your Sharjah Mainland license and start operating.
Freezone
Business Setup In UAE Freezones
Company Formation & Registration, Incorporation in UAE Free zones…
Freezones in Dubai
The UAE business environment is divided into two sectors: onshore and offshore…
Ras Al-Khaimah Freezones
Ras Al Khaimah (RAK), located only 45 minutes away from business hub Dubai..
Abu Dhabi Free Zones
Business venture establishment in one of the free zones in Abu Dhabi is an alluring option for foreign..
Sharjah Freezone
The Sharjah freezone provides foreign investors with an opportunity to set up their business in the UAE…
Ajman Free Zone
Looking into setting up a business in one of the free zones in the UAE? Consider going for an Ajman free…
UAQ Free Zone
The Ahmed Bin Rashed Port & Free Zone is located on the West Coast of the UAE,…
Fujairah Free Zone
Fujairah’s strategic & unique location, as the UAE’s only Emirate on East Coast…
Get a Quick Note
We got back to you in a couple of hours!
Starting a business in the UAE can be tough for Pakistani entrepreneurs. Flyingcolour makes it easy from license selection to company registration and visa support. Talk to our expert consultants for a free consultation and start your UAE business today.