Trade License in Sharjah: Application and Renewal Process
Al Qalam Typing Center handles trade license applications, renewals, amendments, and cancellations in Sharjah on behalf of business owners and companies. Whether you are applying for a new license through the Sharjah Economic Development Department (SEDD) or renewing an existing one, our team submits error-free applications and follows up with all government departments on your behalf.
What Is a Trade License in Sharjah?
A trade license (also called a business license or commercial license) is the official government permit that authorises a business to operate specific activities within Sharjah. Issued by SEDD for mainland companies, or by the relevant free zone authority for free zone entities, the trade license must be renewed annually and must accurately reflect the company’s actual business activities.
Operating without a valid trade license in the UAE is illegal and can result in fines, business closure, and deportation. Renewing on time also protects the company’s visa quota and establishment card.
Types of Trade Licenses in Sharjah
- Commercial License — For trading, import/export, and buying and selling goods
- Professional License — For services provided by an individual or professional firm (consulting, IT, design, legal)
- Industrial License — For manufacturing, processing, and production activities
- Tourism License — For travel, hospitality, and tourism-related businesses
- Freelance Permit — For individual freelancers operating under their own name
Documents Required for Trade License Application
New Trade License Application
- Passport copies of all shareholders
- UAE residence visa copies (or visit visa)
- Emirates ID copies (for UAE residents)
- Proposed trade name (3 options)
- Business activity description
- Tenancy contract (Ejari-registered) for the business premises
- Memorandum of Association (for multi-shareholder companies)
- No Objection Certificate from existing employer (if applicable)
Trade License Renewal
- Current trade license copy
- Updated tenancy contract (Ejari-renewed for the new period)
- Valid passport and Emirates ID of all license holders
- Clearance of any outstanding fines or dues (SEDD checks automatically)
Step-by-Step Trade License Process
New Application
- Trade name reservation (1–2 days)
- Initial approval from SEDD (2–5 days)
- Lease agreement and Ejari registration for premises
- MOA drafting, typing, and notarisation (if required)
- Submission of complete file to SEDD
- License issuance (3–7 working days after full submission)
Annual Renewal
- SEDD sends renewal notification 30–60 days before expiry
- Renew the tenancy contract (Ejari) for another year
- Al Qalam submits renewal application with updated documents
- SEDD processes and issues renewed license (2–5 working days)
- Updated license ready for collection or digital download
Trade License Renewal in Sharjah
Trade licenses must be renewed annually before the expiry date. Late renewal results in fines of AED 250 per month (varies by license type and activity). SEDD also suspends the company’s establishment card and visa quota if the license is not renewed on time, which means no new employee or dependent visas can be processed until the license is active.
Al Qalam reminds registered clients when their renewal is approaching and can handle the complete renewal process — from Ejari renewal coordination to SEDD submission — without you needing to visit any government office.
Trade License Fees in Sharjah (2026)
- Commercial license: AED 6,000–12,000 per year (varies by activity and number of activities listed)
- Professional license: AED 5,500–10,000 per year
- Industrial license: AED 8,000–20,000 per year (larger facilities have higher fees)
- Late renewal fine: AED 250/month on top of license fee
- Trade name reservation: AED 620 (one-time, applies to new applications)
Fees above are SEDD government fees only. Al Qalam charges a separate service fee for processing and coordination. Contact us for a complete quote.
Trade License Amendments and Changes
Any changes to the trade license require a formal amendment application to SEDD. Common amendments include:
- Adding or removing business activities
- Changing the trade name
- Adding or removing shareholders
- Changing the business address
- Increasing or decreasing share capital
- Changing the company manager or legal representative
Al Qalam handles all amendment types. Each amendment has its own fee schedule. Contact us with the specific change required and we will advise on documents and cost.
Why Choose Al Qalam for Trade License Services
- Government-approved, SEDD-registered typing center since 2014
- All submissions made the same day you provide documents
- Renewal reminders sent to all registered clients — never miss a renewal
- No government office visits required — we handle all follow-ups
- Combined with PRO services for complete company administration
- Open 7 days, 9 AM–11 PM
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I have multiple business activities on one trade license?
Yes. SEDD allows multiple activities on a single license. Each additional activity adds a fee. There is a maximum number of activities per license type. We advise on the optimal activity grouping for your business at the consultation stage.
What happens if I don’t renew my trade license on time?
SEDD imposes fines for late renewal, and more critically, the company’s establishment card and visa quota are suspended. This means you cannot renew employee or dependent visas until the license is active again. Renew at least 30 days before expiry to avoid any complications.
Do I need to be physically present to renew my trade license?
No. Al Qalam renews your trade license entirely on your behalf. You provide the documents (which can be sent by WhatsApp or email) and we handle the rest. Final license is sent to you digitally upon issuance.
Related Services
- Business Setup in Sharjah — Full company formation service
- PRO Services Sharjah — Ongoing government liaison for companies
- Document Attestation UAE — MOA and company document attestation
Apply or renew your trade license: Call 06 520 0939 or WhatsApp 055 608 8726. Open 7 days a week, 9 AM – 11 PM.