Sharjah is an important hub in the UAE, drawing the attention of entrepreneurs seeking to start a business, and expand their operations both locally and internationally. The latest data reveals that the UAE is doing very well on a national level. Its non-oil foreign trade rose by 24% in the first half of 2025, achieving nearly AED 1.7 trillion. This proves that getting a business or general trade license has its advantages and with government support, it enables businesses to operate across multiple sectors.
This blog outlines the essential factors covering the Sharjah trade license costs, and the business activities allowed in Sharjah to conduct business operations. A frequent concern many new entrepreneurs face is how to get general trading license Sharjah, and the proper way of choosing business activities. Each of these points are explored in detail to give you a clear pathway to starting a business.
Unlock a Smooth Company Formation with SPC Free Zone
SPC Free Zone provides comprehensive services for company formation, licensing, and visa procedures, all within a single digital platform.
- Instant Trade License Issuance: Entrepreneurs who choose to get a trade license with SPC Free Zone can set up operations immediately without any hassle. This step in company formation, is made possible with the guidance provided by professionals.
- Streamlined Documentation: Paperwork is managed efficiently in-house. It covers all the important collaterals that include registration forms, shareholder agreements, and custom codes for your trade business.
- Integrated Banking and Immigration Support: SPC Free Zone facilitates a streamlined process when it comes to assistance with opening a bank account and visa allocation. SPC Free Zone has developed partnerships with trusted local and international banks enabling entrepreneurs to get their bank account opened without any delays. With regards to visa allocation, this is done in-house as SPC Free Zone is legally authorised to provide this service.
From business consultancies to IT and creative services, get end-to-end support to establish and scale your company with SPC Free Zone.
Experience Flexibility with 2,000+ Approved Business Activities
SPC Free Zone provides entrepreneurs with the opportunity to have diverse operational structures for their business, this can be explored from the 2,000+ approved business activities offered.
- Multi-Activity Licenses: Being able to access up to five business activities under a single license allows entrepreneurs to start their operations with minimal administrative efforts. This feature creates a smoother and more efficient business setup.
- Dual License Options: One of the biggest advantages for companies formed at SPC Free Zone is the unique offering of the dual license. This allows businesses to operate in the Sharjah Mainland as well as the Free Zone. This enables a greater market reach and more flexibility for business owners.
- Diverse Sectors: Some of the most popular sectors are available in the portfolio of business activities at SPC Free Zone. This includes general trading, business or management consultancy, e-commerce, media and other professional services. Access to over 2000+ activities grants the best way to help businesses expand across multiple industries.
- Activities Under General Trading License Sharjah: The business license encompasses a wide range of general trading activities, including electronics, textiles, and culinary items, among others, allowing for operational flexibility in multi-category trading.
General Trading License in Sharjah – Comprehensive Business Freedom
A general trading license in Sharjah allows companies to import, export, and distribute goods without any sector restrictions.
- General Trading License SPC Free Zone
Getting a license from SPC Free Zone opens access to multiple categories in trading. This is all done through a system that provides integrated support that not only covers the documentation but also grants you support with solutions that include allocation of visas and assistance with banking.
- Ideal for Multi-Category Trading
Businesses can operate across several verticals, and don’t need multiple licenses to have this type of operation. This flexibility saves time, resources, and cost.
- General Trading License Requirements Sharjah
In order to get a general trading license, you need to fulfil the screening process. You will need to submit a valid passport, an Emirates ID (if applicable), provide the identities of shareholders involved, and the tenancy agreement.
- Documents Required for General Trading License
Identification documents, trade agreements, proof of office space, and other regulatory forms are all essential documentation.
- Documents for General Trading License Sharjah
SPC Free Zone guides applicants through the complete documentation process specific to Sharjah requirements.
Explore Transparent Costs and Business Packages
Understanding Sharjah general trading license cost is crucial for planning your budget.
- Starting Packages
Businesses License start from AED 5,750, catering to startups, SMEs and established businesses alike.
- Pay-As-You-Go Model
Entrepreneurs have the opportunity to select packages based on the business size and scale of their operations.
- General Trading License Fees Sharjah
Getting a general trading license comes with mandatory processing fees. These come up when the trade license is issued, activating visa allocation, needing an establishment and incurring charges for the e-channel. Concierge services such as banking assistance and other administrative support are considered optional.
Power Your Growth with End-to-End Visa Solutions
SPC Free Zone offers visa services exclusively for license holders.
Fast Investor Visa Processing
Flexible Visa Quotas
Investor visas are issued within 5–7 working days, allowing rapid market entry.
The allocation of visas is dependent upon the selected package and the available office space. Furthermore, dependent visas and renewals are supported.
Comprehensive Visa Support
Support encompasses the orientation of staff, family members, and employees under the same license.
Benefit from Sharjah’s Prime Location and Connectivity
Trading companies derive substantial benefits from Sharjah’s strategic location.
Connectivity to Roads
Sharjah forms a well-planned road network connecting it to Dubai, the northern emirates, and major industrial areas. The primary interstate highways – Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311), Emirates Road (E611), and Sheikh Zayed Road (E11) connect Sharjah with excellent connectivity to major economic centres across the UAE.
Access to Airports and Ports
SPC Free Zone is located 15 minutes away from the Sharjah International Airport and Dubai International Airport. Sharjah’s three prominent seaports – Port Khalid, Port Hamriyah, and Port Khorfakkan are fully integrated in the region, forming a strong commercial hub that connects Sharjah to run trade across the Gulf and into South Asia, Southeast Asia, and Australasia.
Cost-Effective Free Zone Setup
Sharjah is an appealing destination for entrepreneurs due to its tax-free incentives, granting 100% foreign ownership for a free zone business setup, and reduced establishment costs in comparison to other UAE free zones.
Sharjah General Trading License Renewal
Renewals are straightforward and can also be done digitally through SPC Free Zone’s online portal. This ensures uninterrupted operations and compliance with local regulations.
Strengthen Your Business Through SPC Free Zone’s Ecosystem
SPC Free Zone provides a complete ecosystem to support business growth.
Flexible Office Solutions
Choose from furnished offices, shell and core units, warehouses, and co-working spaces tailored to your needs.
Dedicated Support
Account managers and concierge services ensure regulatory compliance and operational efficiency.
Expansion Opportunities
Dual license options and NOCs allow companies to operate outside the free zone while maintaining compliance.
Conclusion
A general trading license in Sharjah with SPC Free Zone offers a cost-effective, flexible, and strategic pathway for entrepreneurs. With integrated support for licensing, visas, and business facilities, SPC Free Zone ensures companies can focus on growth without administrative hurdles. Use the SPC Free Zone Business Setup Cost Calculator or contact SPC Free Zone to explore customised packages and consultations.
FAQs
It covers multi-category trading, import/export activities, and distribution rights within the Free Zone.
Yes, up to five activities can be included under a single license for streamlined operations.
Packages begin from AED 5,750, with flexible pay-as-you-go options and upgrade possibilities.
Visa allocation depends on office space and the selected package, with options for multiple employees and dependants.
Yes, SPC Free Zone provides sponsorship and renewal services for family members and dependants.
