Starting a business in the UAE does not have to cost AED 30,000 or take months of paperwork. As authorized representatives for Sharjah Free Zone, Al Qalam offers the most straightforward trade license package in the UAE — starting at just AED 5,750 — with none of the surprises.
We are also specialists in Sharjah mainland licenses — LLC, Sole Establishment, Branch of Foreign Company, and Trademark Registration — handled end-to-end so you can focus on building your business.
This article explains exactly what is included at each price point, the process, and why hundreds of businesses choose Al Qalam to handle their setup.
Need help with this process? Al Qalam Typing Center handles every step — from document preparation to final submission.
Sharjah Free Zone License — AED 5,750
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| License fee | AED 5,750 (includes 5 activities) |
| Visa requirement | None — license only |
| Physical office | Not required |
| Foreign ownership | 100% |
| Corporate tax | Free zone qualifier (0% on qualifying income) |
| Bank account help | Free — included by Al Qalam |
| Processing time | 3–5 working days (100% remote) |
License + 1 Investor Visa Package
| Item | Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Free zone license | 5,750 |
| Entry permit | 1,130 |
| Medical fitness test | 280–430 |
| Emirates ID (2-year) | 300 |
| ICP Smart Service Fee | 100 |
| Residence visa stamping | 200–500 |
| Al Qalam service fee | 965 |
| Total (est.) | ~AED 12,925 |
Mainland License Options (SEDD)
| Structure | Best For | Typical All-In Cost (Year 1) |
|---|---|---|
| Sole Establishment | Solo professional / single-owner business | AED 15,000–20,000 |
| LLC (2+ partners) | Trading, retail, import/export, F&B | AED 20,000–35,000 |
| Branch of Foreign Company | International company entering Sharjah | AED 25,000–40,000 |
| Civil Company | Professional partnerships (lawyers, doctors) | AED 12,000–20,000 |
Why Businesses Choose Al Qalam for Setup
- Authorized representatives for Sharjah Free Zone — no middlemen
- All-inclusive pricing — no hidden government fees
- Free bank account opening assistance with every license
- One-stop: license + visa + Emirates ID + corporate bank account
- Open 7 days a week, 9 AM – 11 PM — including Fridays
- Government-approved typing center since 2014
- Arabic and English service
How to Get Your License Through Al Qalam — 3 Steps
- Contact us on WhatsApp (+971 55 608 8726) or call (+971 6 520 0939). Tell us your business activity and whether you need a free zone or mainland license.
- We send you a precise cost breakdown and document checklist within 2 hours.
- Submit your passport copy and signed application. We handle everything from there — license issuance, visa, Emirates ID, and bank account.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a UAE bank account with a Sharjah free zone license?
Yes. Al Qalam provides free bank account opening assistance with every license. We prepare your documents, advise which banks are most likely to approve, and guide you through the process. Most accounts are opened within 1–2 weeks.
Is AED 5,750 the total cost, or are there hidden fees?
AED 5,750 is the license fee — the only government charge for the license itself. If you add a visa package, the all-in cost is approximately AED 12,925, which includes all government fees (entry permit, residency visa, Emirates ID, medical fitness).
Do I need to visit Sharjah to get the license?
No. The Sharjah Free Zone license can be processed 100% remotely. If you add a visa, you will need to be in the UAE for the medical fitness test and Emirates ID biometrics.
Need help with this process? Al Qalam Typing Center handles every step — from document preparation to final submission.