What is a Commercial License?
If you intend to buy, trade, or sell goods, engage in commercial activities, or operate a trading business, obtaining a valid commercial license is essential.
Business Activities Covered Under a Commercial License
A commercial license in Sharjah allows businesses to operate in various sectors, including:
- General Trading License
- Specific Trading License
- Import and Export
- Logistics
- Real Estate-related Activities
- General Transport Services
- Equipment Rental Business
- Brokerage Services
Benefits of a Commercial License
- Easier to obtain compared to other types of business licenses
- Enables trading of multiple products and services
- Flexibility to conduct business across different regions in the UAE
- Permission to undertake multiple business activities under a single license
- Secure business engagements with the Sharjah Economic Department
- No restrictions on business location within Sharjah
- Eligibility to apply for employment visas, labor quotas, and other permits
- No mandatory auditing required for license renewal
- Easy corporate bank account setup
- Cost-effective freight charges
- Availability of pre-built offices, factories, and commercial spaces
- No foreign exchange control regulations
Required Documents for a Mainland Commercial License
To apply for a commercial license in Sharjah, the following documents are needed:
- Completed application form with the company name in both Arabic and English
- Approval letter from the Sharjah Economic Department for the company name
- Lease contract with the registered business address
- Memorandum of Association (MOA) of the sponsor and partners
- Proof of license fee payment or issuance receipt
Steps to Obtain a Commercial License
- Determine Business Activity – Choose the type of business activities you plan to engage in. Some activities may require additional approvals.
- Get Initial Approval – Obtain approval from the Sharjah Economic Department to proceed with registration.
- Local Sponsorship (if required) – Depending on the business activity, a local sponsor may be required. Our experts can help you find a reliable local sponsor.
- Draft the MOA & AOA – Our team will prepare the Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA) outlining the company’s policies and regulations in Arabic and English.
- Select a Trade Name – Choose a business name in compliance with Sharjah Economic Department regulations. The name must be unique and meet specific guidelines.
- Secure Office Space – Rent office space, Flexi desks, or virtual offices, and complete the Ejari registration process if leasing a commercial space.
- Obtain Additional Approvals – Certain business activities may require approvals from relevant ministries or departments.
- Complete Registration & Receive License – Submit the required documents, pay the fees, and receive your commercial license.
Renewal Process for a Commercial License
A commercial license is valid for one year, after which renewal is mandatory. Upon renewal, the license is extended for five years. Required documents for renewal include:
- Copy of the trade license
- Copy of the office lease contract
- Approvals from the relevant ministry or authority
- Information regarding employee accommodations (for businesses with foreign shareholders)
Need assistance with obtaining or renewing your commercial license in Sharjah? Our expert consultants are here to guide you every step of the way!