How much does it cost to set up a company in SAIF Zone?

SAIF Zone company setup is starting from From AED 7,000. Costs include the trade license, registration, and establishment fees. Additional costs include visa processing, office or flexi-desk, and annual license renewal.

How long does it take to register a company in SAIF Zone?

Registration in SAIF Zone typically takes 2-4 business days. This covers name reservation, document verification, license issuance, and delivery of incorporation documents. Express processing may be available.

How many visas does a SAIF Zone license include?

SAIF Zone provides Up to 6 per license. The allocation depends on your office package — flexi-desks typically allow 1 to 3 visas while larger offices allow more. Additional visas can usually be purchased separately.

Can a SAIF Zone company trade with UAE mainland clients?

SAIF Zone is authorised to operate within Sharjah and internationally. To sell directly to UAE mainland businesses or consumers, companies typically need a local commercial agent or a separate mainland branch licence.

Is SAIF Zone suitable for startups and freelancers?

SAIF Zone in Sharjah offers 100% foreign ownership, no minimum share capital for most license types, and flexible flexi-desk or virtual office options. It is a strong choice for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and SMEs targeting the UAE, GCC, and international markets.

What business activities are permitted in SAIF Zone?

SAIF Zone permits a broad range of activities including trading, consultancy, technology, media, e-commerce, and professional services. Regulated activities such as financial services or healthcare require additional regulatory approvals. Use our comparison tool to verify specific activity availability.

SAIF Zone Free Zone Sharjah 2026 | From AED 7,000

Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF Zone) is Sharjah's flagship free zone, strategically located adjacent to Sharjah International Airport — a major cargo hub serving global shipping routes. Established in 1995, SAIF Zone has grown to host over 7,000 companies from 100+ countries, making it one of the UAE's most established and internationally recognised free zones. The free zone offers a compelling combination of affordable licensing fees, excellent air cargo connectivity, and modern facilities including warehouses, factory units, showrooms, and office buildings. SAIF Zone's proximity to Sharjah International Airport, which ranks among the world's top cargo airports, makes it particularly attractive for companies engaged in trading, logistics, and manufacturing with global supply chain requirements. The zone's central location within the UAE — 15 minutes from Dubai International Airport and 45 minutes from Abu Dhabi — provides excellent connectivity for businesses targeting the entire UAE market.

About SAIF Zone

Airport-based Trade, Logistics & Manufacturing

Key Information

Zone Name	SAIF Zone
Emirate	Sharjah
Setup Cost	From AED 7,000
Visa Quota	Up to 6
Min. Capital	None
Setup Time	2-4 business days

Costs & Fees

License Fee / Setup Cost	From AED 7,000
Minimum Share Capital	None

Cost Notes

All costs shown are approximate and subject to change. Additional costs may include registration fees, notarisation, visa medical fees, and bank account opening fees. Always verify the exact costs with SAIF Zone directly before proceeding.

Permitted Business Activities

General Trading Import & Export Manufacturing Light Industrial Logistics & Freight Warehousing & Storage IT Services Software Development Telecommunications Healthcare Products Pharmaceutical Trading Medical Devices Media & Advertising Education & Training Renewable Energy Services Consulting Engineering Services Food Processing Packaging & Assembly Textile & Garments Construction Materials Automotive Parts Electronics Trading Insurance Financial Services

The above activities are indicative. SAIF Zone may permit additional activities based on your specific business requirements. Always confirm with the zone authority.

How to Set Up in SAIF Zone

Choose your business activity
Identify the specific business activities you want to conduct. This determines the license type you need.
Select your package
Choose between flexi-desk, shared office, or dedicated office options based on your needs and budget.
Submit your application
Provide required documents including passport copies, business plan, and completed application forms.
Pay fees and receive your license
Once approved, pay the applicable fees and receive your trade license — typically within 2-4 business days.
Apply for visas
Use your trade license to apply for investor and employee visas through the free zone authority.
Open a bank account
Use your incorporation documents to open a corporate bank account with a UAE or international bank.

SAIF Zone