Sharjah is a world-renowned investment destination that provides a launchpad for investors and entrepreneurs. As the industrial hub of the UAE, Sharjah offers tax-friendly policies, easy access to international trade routes, and a highly diversified economy. The emirate is the third largest populated emirate in the UAE and stands out as one of the most diversified economies in the world.
Sharjah is centrally located between Europe and East Asia, making it an ideal strategic location for global trade. The emirate provides convenient access to major international airports and seaports on both the Arabian Gulf and Indian Ocean.
| Destination | Travel Time |
|---|---|
| Dubai Airport | 15 minutes |
| Sharjah Airport | 15 minutes |
| Khalid & Hamriyah Seaport | 15 minutes |
| Sharjah City Center | 15 minutes |
Sharjah is the only emirate that shares a border with all other emirates (with the exception of Abu Dhabi), providing crucial advantages for businesses that need access to the entire UAE market.
Sharjah has the most diversified economies in the Gulf Region and is widely recognized as:
The emirate is a well-known strategic destination for global investors and companies looking to explore new geographies and emerging markets, particularly in Asia, Africa, and Europe.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Global Competitiveness Ranking | 9th most competitive nation in the world |
| Yearly Investment in Education and Research | $1.5 billion |
| Global Connectivity Ranking | 5th most globally connected country |
| Number of Seaports | 3 (on Arabian Gulf and Indian Ocean) |
| Coastline Length | 128 km |
| GDP (2020) | $30.66 billion |
| Emirate Size Ranking | 3rd largest emirate in UAE |
| Population (2020) | 1.7 million |
| Population Ranking | 3rd most populous city in UAE |
| Safety Ranking | 6th safest city in the world |
| Border Connectivity | Bordering all 6 Emirates |
Investors in Sharjah benefit from:
Sharjah investment opportunities span multiple industries, including:
The UAE's strong support system for entrepreneurs means the region invests heavily in technology, sustainable solutions, AI, construction, and other key industries, creating countless opportunities for entrepreneurs of all sizes within the UAE business hub.
Business setup timeline depends on the application location and chosen activities. At SPC Free Zone:
SPC Free Zone offers multiple services to support business establishment:
Sharjah's strategic position as an industrial hub, a cultural capital, and a major education hotspot, along with its highly diversified economic make it a compelling option for investors.
Investors benefit from Sharjah's tax-friendly policies (0% income tax, 100% foreign ownership, 100% profit repatriation) and its robust economy offer several incentives for entrepreneurs who are looking to start a business in the UAE.
Sharjah's central location between Europe, Africa, and East Asia gives the city easy access to global trade routes. The city is only 15 minutes away from three major travel hubs, including Dubai International Airport (DXB), Sharjah International Airport (SHJ), as well as the Khalid & Hamriyah Seaports.
Sharjah is the only Emirate that shares a border with all the other Emirates (with the exception of Abu Dhabi), which is a crucial advantage for businesses that need access to the entire UAE market.
Opportunities are extensive across sectors, including e-Commerce, retail, dropshipping, retail, manufacturing, IT, education, and future-focused industries like artificial intelligence and sustainability.
Foreign investors can enjoy 100% ownership of their companies, pay 0% income tax, and repatriate 100% of their profits. If you set up a business in one of Sharjah's free zones, you'll also be exempt from paying Corporate Tax provided you meet the qualifying conditions.
It depends on where you apply and what your chosen activities are. At SPC Free Zone, you could get your business license instantly (for certain activities) or within less than an hour!
To begin your business journey in Sharjah, SPC Free Zone provides: