The Economic Freedom Zones in the United Arab Emirates, especially in the Emirate of Sharjah, are considered among the preferred destinations for investors wishing to establish companies and grow their businesses. Among these areas, the free zone connected to Sharjah International Airport stands out as one of the most important economic and commercial centers in the region. Establishing a company in the Sharjah International Airport Free Zone is considered an important strategic step for investors seeking to benefit from the economic and commercial advantages available in this region. It provides an encouraging environment and great facilities for companies, making it an ideal destination for businesses in the Middle East. In this article, we will take an overview of the process of establishing companies in the Sharjah International Airport Free Zone, including the benefits and advantages that this zone offers, along with the procedures and challenges that it entails. You may encounter investors during this process. We will also discuss some practical tips for achieving success in establishing companies in this dynamic economic environment.

Sharjah International Airport Free Zone

Sharjah International Airport Free Zone is a special economic zone located in the Emirate of Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates. This free zone was established with the aim of boosting the local economy and attracting national and foreign investments. This region is characterized by providing a suitable environment for commercial and industrial businesses, and includes a range of facilities and services that support the growth of companies and enhance trade and exports.

Sharjah International Airport Free Zone houses a diverse range of companies and industries, including logistics, manufacturing, technology, logistics, global trade, and others. The free zone also provides advanced infrastructure and modern facilities, including ports, warehouses, industrial spaces and administrative offices.

The Sharjah International Airport Free Zone offers a range of incentives and privileges to companies registered in it, such as exemption from customs duties, not imposing income taxes on companies, freedom to transfer profits and investments, and other privileges that attract investors and encourage them to invest in the region.

Procedures for establishing a company in the free zone

Procedures for establishing a company in a free zone such as the Sharjah International Airport Free Zone usually include the following steps:

1. Research and Planning: Before starting any formal procedures, investors should conduct the necessary research and prepare a feasibility study to ensure the availability of the appropriate business opportunity in the free zone, and ensure future success.
2. Choosing the type of company: Investors must determine the type of company they want to establish, whether it is a sole proprietorship, a joint stock company, or a limited liability company, according to their business needs and goals.
3. Registration and licenses: Investors must submit an application to register the company with the competent authorities in the free zone, and obtain the necessary licenses and permits to practice the relevant commercial activities.
4. Determine legal responsibilities: Investors must determine the organizational structure of the company and determine the legal responsibilities of each of the partners or shareholders.
5. Securing the necessary capital: Investors must secure the necessary capital to establish and operate the company and meet its initial financial needs.
6. Preparing contracts and legal documents: Establishing a company requires preparing a set of contracts and legal documents such as the articles of incorporation, partners’ agreement, articles of association, and others, which are submitted to the competent authorities for approval.
7. Tax and Workforce Registration: After establishing a company, investors must register the company with the local tax authorities and register their workers to ensure full compliance with tax and labor laws.
8. Opening a bank account: Investors must open a bank account in the name of the company to manage its financial transactions.
9. Renting an office or work space: Some free zones may require renting an office or work space to a company, and investors must take the necessary measures in this regard.
10. Compliance with local and international legislation: Investors must ensure full compliance with all local and international legislation and laws related to the establishment and operation of companies in the free zone.

Laws that must be adhered to while establishing a company in the free zone

When establishing a company in a free zone , several laws and regulations must be adhered to to ensure legal compliance and successful operation of the company. Among the basic laws that must be adhered to while establishing the company in the free zone:

• Companies Law: This law regulates the procedures and conditions necessary for establishing and managing companies in the free zone, including the types of companies allowed and the rights and duties of shareholders and managers.
• Labor Law: This law regulates the conditions of employment and labor relations within the company, including wages, working hours, vacations, rights and duties.
• Tax Laws: Tax laws vary depending on the type of business activity and local and international tax legislation. You must comply with all tax obligations and submit tax reports and returns regularly.
• Intellectual property laws: These laws protect intellectual property rights such as trademarks, copyrights, and patents. The company must adhere to intellectual property rights to avoid legal problems.
• Safety and environmental laws: These laws regulate the safety and health of employees and the environment at work sites. The company must take all necessary measures to provide a safe and healthy work environment.
• Contract laws: These laws regulate contracts and agreements between the company, customers, suppliers, and other partners. Contracts must be valid and legally binding.

Fees for establishing a company in the Sharjah International Airport Free Zone

Fees for setting up companies in Sharjah Airport International Free Zone may vary based on the type of company and the size of the planned business. However, here’s an overview of some of the fees to expect:

1. Company registration fees: These fees include the company registration fees itself, which vary depending on the type of company, its size, and the activity it carries out.
2. Document fees: These may include fees for the documents necessary to establish the company and submit them to the competent authorities.
3. Government service fees: These can include fees for local government services and administrative procedures related to establishing a company.
4. Licenses and permits fees: In some cases, there may be fees to obtain the necessary licenses to start operating in the free zone.
5. Consulting and legal fees: You may need the services of a lawyer or consultant to assist you in the procedures for establishing the company, and you may have to pay consulting or legal fees.

Basic documents for establishing a company in the Sharjah International Airport Free Zone

Establishing a company in a free zone such as the Sharjah International Airport Free Zone requires several basic documents. These documents may vary slightly based on the type of company and business activities the company intends to undertake, but generally include the following basic documents:

1. Company incorporation application form: It is filled out with the required company information, such as the company name, type of business activity, headquarter address, and shareholders’ details.
2. Memorandum of Association: Defines the company’s objectives and the rights and obligations of shareholders and founding members.
3. Articles of Association form: Explains how the company is run and the powers and duties associated with each position in the company.
4. Board Resolution Form: If there is a board of directors, this form is to authorize one of the members to submit an application for incorporation and represent the company.
5. Bank Account Opening Form: To open a bank account in the name of the company.
6. The founders’ passport and personal photos: to identify them.
7. A copy of the passport issued by official authorities (such as a passport or ID card): to verify the identity of shareholders and directors.
8. Appointment of Financial Analyst Form: In some cases, it may be required to appoint a financial analyst to provide a financial report on the company.
9. Notices and permits as needed: These may include permits specific to the company’s activity, such as environmental, health and safety licenses, work licenses, and others.