Today it is possible to single out some cities in the United Arab Emirates, which have become a symbol of great business opportunities and prospects. A special role among them is given to the Emirate of Sharjah. Owing to the rapid economic growth, Sharjah is of an unprecedented investment interest among the entrepreneurs from all over the world.

Business in Sharjah – special economic environment

First of all, the presence of modern transportation hubs is noteworthy. For example, Sharjah International Airport is an important regional logistics hub with a well-developed cargo infrastructure.

For potential investors, the Emirate of Sharjah offers a wide range of corporate benefits and opportunities, including the opportunity to purchase real estate in specially authorized zones (freehold/usufruct), in accordance with local legislation. Free zones offer customs and tax benefits subject to compliance with the zone's terms and conditions.

Today, thousands of companies from around the world have appreciated the advantages of doing business in Sharjah. The well-established infrastructure and relatively low energy costs allow for the optimization of many business processes. Several free economic zones are successfully operating in the Emirate of Sharjah, including the SAIF Zone and the Hamriyah Free Zone. They are distinguished by their moderate registration and administration costs, developed infrastructure, and convenient location near Dubai. 

Business climate and corporate opportunities

Opening a company in Sharjah means enlisting the support of the state and using the maximum of the most various corporate benefits. The Government of the Emirate actively supports and encourages development of private business in the various directions, in the service sector and in the trade and manufacturing industries.

It should be noted that opening of the industrial and manufacturing enterprises on the territory of the Emirate is quite beneficial. This is due to the government subsidization of the industrial utilization of water resources and electric power.

The Emirate's attractiveness for business is also due to the presence of specialized economic zones, whose status allows for the minimization of corporate taxation (tax incentives are possible if the requirements of the Qualifying Free Zone Person regime are met). Specialized industrial parks and free economic zones are industry-specific, simplifying production cycles and significantly reducing corporate costs. Furthermore, the UAE allows for the rapid repatriation of capital and profits, provided the currency and regulatory regime is met.

The following features can be singled out among the key factors contributing to the investment attractiveness of the Emirate:

• Availability of the significant investment incentives for business development;
• Strategically and economically advantageous location of the Emirate;
• Modern well-developed infrastructure;
• Presence of the industrial parks and free trade zones;
• Minimal taxation and customs privileges (in free zone).

High-tech business centers, well-developed social infrastructure, advanced transport communication networks, multi-functional transport hubs and aspiration of the state to help private business – it is all the Emirate of Sharjah. If you plan to open a company in Sharjah, you will be offered the incredible incentives for investment and development of a highly profitable business. 

Comparison of the Emirate of Sharjah with other UAE emirates

Sharjah occupies a unique position among the UAE emirates and is often considered by investors as an alternative to more expensive jurisdictions such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Key Distinctions of Sharjah

Sharjah provides a more balanced mix of price and facilities than the other emirates:

• More affordable company registration and maintenance costs than the more well-known emirates
• Low rental prices and industrial infrastructure, which are key for manufacturing and logistics firms

Proximity to Dubai, making it an attractive financial and business hub

Sharjah vs Dubai vs Abu Dhabi 

Sharjah is good for cost optimization, while Dubai is for best international reach and branding. Abu Dhabi is interested in major investment projects and partnerships with the government.

When to Choose Sharjah

The Emirate of Sharjah is an ideal option when reducing overheads is high priority, business involves manufacturing, warehousing or logistics, and close proximity to Dubai without the expensive price tag is needed, as well as access to the free zones specialized in industrial activities.

• Checked / Updated: 05.17.2026
• Published on: 01.28.2016
• Author: Andrey Melnichuk