Sharjah Airport International Free
Zone (SAIF ZONE)

Sharjah Airport International Free Zone

Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF Zone) is a prominent business hub in the United Arab Emirates, established in 1995. Located adjacent to Sharjah International Airport, SAIF Zone offers a strategic location with excellent business connectivity. This free zone is classified as a designated free zone and enjoys special privileges for corporate tax and value-added tax treatments.

Key Highlights

Strategic Location: SAIF Zone provides access to major shipping routes, including Port Khalid and Port Khorfakkan, facilitating smooth import and export operations

Its proximity to Sharjah International Airport and well-connected network of highways makes it ideal for logistics and trade

Business Incentives: The free zone offers attractive benefits for companies, including:

  • 100% foreign ownership
  • 0% corporate and personal income tax (subject to compliance with regulatory requirements)
  • 100% repatriation of capital and profits
  • Tax exemption on imports and exports
  • Fast-track licensing and visa services

Infrastructure: SAIF Zone boasts state-of-the-art facilities tailored to various business needs, including:

  • Office spaces
  • Warehouses
  • Industrial plots
  • Labor accommodation
  • Container parking areas

Business Setup

SAIF Zone caters to a wide range of business activities across different sectors. The free zone issues three main types of licenses:

  1. Commercial License:For trading, import, export, and distribution activities
  2. Service License:For specific service-oriented businesses
  3. Industrial License:For manufacturing, processing, and assembly operations

The process of setting up a business in the SAIF Zone typically involves the following:

  1. Choosing a business structure (FZE, FZCO, or branch office)
  2. Selecting appropriate business activities
  3. Applying for the relevant license
  4. Submitting required documents
  5. Paying applicable fees

Business Community

SAIF Zone has attracted over 8,000 companies from more than 160 countries

The free zone is particularly popular among businesses in sectors such as:

  • Trading and logistics
  • Manufacturing
  • E-commerce
  • Professional services
  • Aviation-related industries

Sharjah Airport International Free Zone remains an attractive destination for companies looking to establish or expand their presence in the UAE and the Middle East region. Its strategic location, modern infrastructure, and business-friendly policies offer a unique combination of advantages.

The process of setting up a company in the Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF Zone) involves several key steps:

Choose Your Business Activity and Structure

First, determine the business activity you intend to pursue in the SAIF Zone. Then, select an appropriate company structure:

  • Free Zone Establishment (FZE): For a single shareholder
  • Free Zone Company (FZC): For 2-5 shareholders
  • Branch of a Foreign/UAE Company: For existing companies expanding to SAIF Zone

Name and Register Your Company

  1. Select and reserve a company name that complies with SAIF Zone naming guidelines
  2. Prepare and submit the required documents, including:
    • Completed application form
    • Passport copies of shareholders/managers
    • Business plan
    • Proof of address for shareholders/managers
    • Memorandum and Articles of Association (for FZE/FZC)
  3. Obtain initial approval from SAIF Zone authorities

Secure Office Space and License

  1. Choose and lease an appropriate office space or facility within the SAIF Zone
  2. Pay the necessary fees for licensing, office space, and other administrative charges
  3. Receive your business license and other company documents, including:
    • Certificate of Incorporation
    • Share Certificate
    • Lease Agreement

Complete Post-Registration Steps

  1. Open a corporate bank account with a UAE bank
  2. Apply for relevant visas for yourself and your employees. The company owner’s visa is typically valid for 3 years, while employee visas are valid for 2 years
  3. Set up your office and commence business operations

Additional Considerations

  • The total process usually takes about ten days on average
  • SAIF Zone offers various business license packages, some including office space
  • Consider engaging a business setup consultant to navigate the process smoothly

Remember that specific requirements vary based on your business activity and the latest regulations. Always verify the most current procedures with SAIF Zone authorities or trusted business setup consultants to register a company efficiently and cost-effectively.

The Cost Estimate for a basic company setup in the Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF ZONE) is approximately AED 18,500 (USD2,995). This cost may vary based on investors’ requirements and the facilities needed to run the business smoothly. This designated Free Zone enjoys unique tax treatments and customs duty benefits.

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If you are ready to start your business in the UAE, Alpha Equity MC is here to help. As a Top Corporate and Business Setup Service Provider in UAE, we offer the best services to make your business journey smooth and successful. Contact us today to find out how we can help you!