If you’re looking to set up a business in Sharjah, then the Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF Zone) could be the perfect place for you. The SAIF Zone is a rapidly growing free zone that offers a range of services and facilities to businesses of all sizes. One of the key benefits of the SAIF Zone is that it offers 100% foreign ownership, which means that you can own your business outright without the need for a local partner.
The SAIF Zone is home to a wide range of businesses, from small start-ups to large multinational corporations. The zone is divided into different sectors, each of which caters to a specific type of business. For example, there are sectors for manufacturing, trading, and service industries. The SAIF Zone also offers a range of support services, including banking and financial services, legal and consultancy services, and logistics and transportation services. With its strategic location, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and business-friendly environment, the SAIF Zone is an ideal location for businesses looking to expand into the Middle East and beyond.
Overview of Saif Zone
Saif Zone, also known as Sharjah Airport International Free Zone, is one of the most prominent free zones in the UAE. Established in 1995, Saif Zone has become a hub for international business, offering a range of services and facilities to its clients.
History
Saif Zone was established by the Government of Sharjah with the aim of attracting foreign investment and promoting economic growth in the region. Since its inception, Saif Zone has been a popular destination for entrepreneurs and businesses looking to set up operations in the UAE.
Location
Saif Zone is located adjacent to the Sharjah International Airport, making it an ideal location for businesses involved in logistics and transportation. The free zone is also situated close to major highways, providing easy access to other emirates in the UAE.
Key Features
Saif Zone offers a range of services and facilities to its clients, including:
- 100% foreign ownership
- No corporate or personal income tax
- No restrictions on repatriation of capital and profits
- State-of-the-art infrastructure and facilities
- Fast and efficient business setup process
In addition, Saif Zone has a diverse range of industries represented, including aviation, manufacturing, logistics, and trading. With over 7,000 companies currently operating in Saif Zone, it is a thriving business community with a lot to offer.
Types of Companies in Saif Zone
If you’re considering setting up a business in Sharjah’s SAIF Zone, it’s important to understand the different types of companies that can be established. Here are the three main company types:
Free Zone Establishments
A Free Zone Establishment (FZE) is a limited liability company with one shareholder. The shareholder can be an individual or a company. FZE is the most popular type of company in SAIF Zone, as it provides complete ownership and control to the shareholder.
Free Zone Companies
A Free Zone Company (FZCO) is a limited liability company with two or more shareholders. The shareholders can be individuals or companies. FZCOs are a good option for businesses that require more than one shareholder, but still want to take advantage of the benefits of a free zone.
Branch Companies
A Branch Company is a branch of a foreign or local company that is already established outside of the free zone. The branch company is 100% owned by the parent company, and it operates under the same name and legal identity as the parent company.
SAIF Zone offers a variety of company types to suit the needs of different businesses. Whether you choose an FZE, FZCO, or Branch Company, you can take advantage of the many benefits of setting up in a free zone, including 100% ownership, tax exemptions, and streamlined administrative processes.
Major Sectors in Saif Zone
Saif Zone is home to several major sectors, including trading, services, and industrial. These sectors offer a diverse range of opportunities for businesses looking to establish themselves in the region.
Trading
The trading sector in Saif Zone is known for its strategic location and excellent infrastructure, making it an ideal hub for businesses looking to expand their global reach. The zone is home to several trading companies dealing with a variety of products, including electronics, textiles, and food items. With its advanced logistics facilities, Saif Zone offers businesses a competitive edge in the global marketplace.
Services
Saif Zone is also home to a thriving services sector, offering a range of professional services to businesses operating in the region. These services include legal, financial, and consulting services, among others. The zone’s strategic location, coupled with its advanced infrastructure, makes it an ideal location for businesses looking to establish themselves in the region.
Industrial
The industrial sector in Saif Zone is one of the most advanced in the region, offering businesses access to state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge technology. The zone is home to several industrial companies dealing with a variety of products, including chemicals, plastics, and metals. With its advanced infrastructure and skilled workforce, Saif Zone offers businesses a competitive edge in the global marketplace.
In conclusion, Saif Zone offers a diverse range of opportunities for businesses looking to establish themselves in the region. With its strategic location, advanced infrastructure, and skilled workforce, the zone is an ideal hub for businesses looking to expand their global reach.
Sharjah Saif Zone Company List
If you’re looking for a business-friendly environment to establish your company, Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF Zone) is an ideal destination. Here are some of the notable companies that have already established their presence in the zone.
Top Manufacturing Companies
SAIF Zone hosts a diverse range of manufacturing companies, including some of the leading names in the industry. The zone offers a range of facilities and services to support the manufacturing industry, including advanced infrastructure, logistics support, and access to a skilled workforce. Some of the top manufacturing companies in SAIF Zone are:
- Gulftainer: A leading port management and logistics company that operates terminals in several countries.
- NMC Trading: A subsidiary of the NMC Healthcare group, NMC Trading is a leading distributor of medical equipment and supplies in the UAE and beyond.
- Al Khaleej Sugar: One of the largest sugar refineries in the world, Al Khaleej Sugar has a production capacity of 7,000 tonnes per day.
Leading Trading Companies
SAIF Zone is home to many trading companies that operate in a wide range of industries, including electronics, textiles, and food products. The zone offers a range of benefits to trading companies, including easy access to regional markets, advanced logistics facilities, and a favourable regulatory environment. Some of the leading trading companies in SAIF Zone are:
- Al Aqili Group: A diversified group of companies that operates in several industries, including textiles, electronics, and real estate.
- Al Fakher Tobacco: A leading manufacturer of shisha tobacco products that are exported to over 100 countries worldwide.
- Al Jaber Optical: A leading retailer of eyewear and optical products in the UAE.
Prominent Service Companies
SAIF Zone also hosts many service companies that offer a wide range of services to businesses and individuals. The zone offers a range of benefits to service companies, including advanced infrastructure, access to a skilled workforce, and a favourable regulatory environment. Some of the prominent service companies in SAIF Zone are:
- Sharjah Islamic Bank: One of the leading Islamic banks in the UAE, Sharjah Islamic Bank offers a range of banking and financial services to businesses and individuals.
- Sharjah Airport Travel Agency: A leading travel agency that offers a range of travel-related services, including airline ticketing, hotel bookings, and holiday packages.
- Sharjah National Lube Oil Company: A leading manufacturer of lubricants and greases that are exported to several countries worldwide.
Here is a table listing 48 companies located in Sharjah Saif Zone:
| S.No | Company |
|---|---|
| 1 | Emirates Steel |
| 2 | Gulf Pharmaceutical Industries |
| 3 | Sharjah Printing & Packaging Company |
| 4 | Sharjah Oxygen Company |
| 5 | Sharjah Paper & Packaging Company |
| 6 | Gulf Cryo |
| 7 | Sharjah Steel Rolling Mills |
| 8 | Sharjah Aluminium |
| 9 | Gulf Ceramics |
| 10 | Al-Futtaim Motors |
| 11 | Al-Futtaim Trading |
| 12 | Al-Futtaim Foods |
| 13 | Al-Futtaim Electronics |
| 14 | Al-Futtaim Automotive |
| 15 | Al-Futtaim Engineering Services |
| 16 | Al-Futtaim Logistics |
| 17 | Al-Futtaim Building Materials |
| 18 | Al-Futtaim Textiles |
| 19 | Al-Futtaim Car City |
| 20 | Al-Futtaim 4X4 |
| S.No | Company |
|---|---|
| 21 | Al-Futtaim Motors Used Cars |
| 22 | Al-Futtaim Car Care Centre |
| 23 | Al-Futtaim Spare Parts |
| 24 | Al-Futtaim Accessories |
| 25 | Emirates Glass |
| 26 | Emirates Steel Industries |
| 27 | Al-Futtaim Trading |
| 28 | Al-Futtaim Foods |
| 29 | Al-Futtaim Electronics |
| 30 | Al-Futtaim Automotive |
| 31 | Al-Futtaim Engineering Services |
| 32 | Al-Futtaim Logistics |
| 33 | Al-Futtaim Building Materials |
| 34 | Al-Futtaim Textiles |
| 35 | Al-Futtaim Car City |
| 36 | Al-Futtaim 4X4 |
| 37 | Al-Futtaim Motors Used Cars |
| 38 | Al-Futtaim Car Care Centre |
| 39 | Al-Futtaim Spare Parts |
| 40 | Al-Futtaim Accessories |
| S.No | Company |
|---|---|
| 41 | Emirates Glass |
| 42 | Emirates Steel Industries |
| 43 | Sharjah Aluminium Extrusions Factory |
| 44 | Emirates Aluminium Extrusions |
| 45 | Gulf Cryo |
| 46 | Gulf Aluminium Rolling Mill |
| 47 | Sharjah Steel Company |
In conclusion, SAIF Zone is home to many notable companies that operate in a wide range of industries. The zone offers a range of benefits to businesses, including advanced infrastructure, logistics support, and access to a skilled workforce. If you’re looking to establish your company in a business-friendly environment, SAIF Zone is definitely worth considering.
Setting Up a Company in Saif Zone
If you are planning to set up a company in Sharjah Saif Zone, there are a few things you need to know. This section will guide you through the registration process, legal requirements, and cost structure.
Registration Process
To register a company in Saif Zone, you need to follow these steps:
- Choose a business activity: Before registering your company, you need to decide on the business activity you want to undertake. Saif Zone offers over 2,500 business activities to choose from.
- Choose a legal structure: You can choose from several legal structures, including Free Zone Establishment (FZE), Free Zone Company (FZC), and Branch of a Foreign Company.
- Submit the application: You need to submit the application along with all the required documents. The documents include a business plan, passport copies of shareholders and directors, and a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your current sponsor if you are already in the UAE.
- Pay the fees: Once your application is approved, you need to pay the fees and sign the lease agreement.
Legal Requirements
To operate a company in Saif Zone, you need to comply with certain legal requirements. These include:
- Obtaining a trade license: You need to obtain a trade license from Saif Zone to operate your business.
- Obtaining visas: You can apply for visas for your employees and dependents.
- Complying with labour laws: You need to comply with the labour laws of the UAE, including providing health insurance and end-of-service benefits to your employees.
Cost Structure
The cost of setting up a company in Saif Zone depends on the legal structure you choose and the business activity you undertake. The cost includes:
- Registration fees: The registration fees range from AED 1,500 to AED 15,000, depending on the legal structure.
- License fees: The license fees range from AED 5,500 to AED 15,000, depending on the legal structure and business activity.
- Visa fees: The visa fees range from AED 1,000 to AED 3,000 per visa, depending on the type of visa.
Overall, setting up a company in Saif Zone is a straightforward process, and the cost is reasonable compared to other free zones in the UAE. With the right legal structure and business activity, you can benefit from the tax-free environment, 100% foreign ownership, and other advantages offered by Saif Zone.
Advantages of Setting Up a Company in Saif Zone
If you’re planning to set up a company in Sharjah, Saif Zone is an excellent choice. Here are some advantages to consider:
1. Strategic Location
Saif Zone is located near the Sharjah International Airport and the Port of Sharjah, making it an ideal location for businesses that require easy access to transportation. It is also close to Dubai, which is a major business hub in the region.
2. Tax Benefits
One of the most significant advantages of setting up a company in Saif Zone is the tax benefits. Companies operating in the zone are exempt from corporate and personal income taxes, import and export duties, and value-added tax (VAT). This can result in significant cost savings for businesses.
3. Business-Friendly Environment
Saif Zone is designed to provide a business-friendly environment for companies of all sizes. The zone offers a range of facilities and services, including office space, warehouses, and land for development. It also has a dedicated team of professionals who can assist with company registration, licensing, and other administrative tasks.
4. Wide Range of Industries
Saif Zone is home to more than 7,000 companies from a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, trading, and services. This creates a diverse business community that can provide opportunities for networking and collaboration.
5. Easy Company Setup
Setting up a company in Saif Zone is a straightforward process that can be completed quickly. The zone has a streamlined registration process that can be completed online, and the required documentation is minimal.
Overall, Saif Zone offers businesses a range of advantages that make it an attractive location for setting up a company. From tax benefits to a business-friendly environment, Saif Zone can provide the support and resources that companies need to succeed.
Challenges and Considerations
When considering setting up a business in Sharjah Saif Zone, there are a few challenges and considerations to keep in mind. Here are some factors to take into account:
1. Competition
Sharjah Saif Zone has a diverse range of companies operating within its jurisdiction, which can create a highly competitive environment. It is important to conduct thorough market research to determine the level of competition in your industry and identify ways to differentiate your business.
2. Regulations and Compliance
As with any business, there are regulations and compliance requirements that must be met when operating in Sharjah Saif Zone. It is important to familiarise yourself with the local laws and regulations, as non-compliance can result in fines or even the revocation of your business license.
3. Language and Culture
Sharjah Saif Zone is a multicultural environment, with people from various nationalities and backgrounds working together. It is important to be aware of cultural differences and language barriers that may arise, and take steps to bridge any gaps in communication.
4. Infrastructure and Logistics
Sharjah Saif Zone has excellent infrastructure and logistics, but it is important to consider the specific needs of your business. For example, if you require specialised equipment or transportation, you may need to make arrangements to ensure your needs are met.
Overall, while there may be challenges and considerations when setting up a business in Sharjah Saif Zone, with proper planning and research, it can be a highly rewarding environment for business growth and success.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Sharjah Saif Zone Company List offers a diverse range of businesses and industries that cater to the needs of both local and international investors. With over 7,000 companies operating in the free zone, it provides a dynamic and competitive business environment that fosters growth and innovation.
Through its strategic location, state-of-the-art facilities, and business-friendly policies, Sharjah Saif Zone has established itself as a leading hub for trade and commerce in the region. Its comprehensive range of services, including licensing, registration, and visa processing, make it easy for companies to set up and operate their businesses efficiently.
Whether you are a small start-up or a large multinational corporation, Sharjah Saif Zone offers a range of options that cater to your business needs. From warehousing and logistics to manufacturing and trading, the free zone provides a platform for businesses to expand their operations and reach new markets.
Overall, Sharjah Saif Zone is a prime destination for investors looking to establish a presence in the UAE. With its strategic location, world-class infrastructure, and business-friendly policies, it offers a competitive advantage that sets it apart from other free zones in the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the process for obtaining a Sharjah Free Zone license?
To obtain a license in Sharjah Free Zone, you need to follow a few simple steps. First, you need to choose the type of license that suits your business activity. Then, you need to fill out the application form and submit the required documents. After that, you will receive an initial approval, and you can proceed with the payment of fees. Finally, you will receive your license and can start your business operations.
Is SAIF Zone portal available for all types of companies?
Yes, the SAIF Zone portal is available for all types of companies. Whether you are a small business or a large corporation, you can use the SAIF Zone portal to manage your business activities. The portal provides a range of services, including company registration, license renewal, and visa processing.
How many free zones are there in Sharjah besides SAIF Zone?
Apart from SAIF Zone, there are two other free zones in Sharjah. These are Hamriyah Free Zone and Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF Zone). Each of these free zones has its unique features and benefits, and you can choose the one that best suits your business needs.
