The UAE is the 28th largest e-commerce market in the world. The estimated revenue is $11,728 million by 2023. This growth could be because 98% of UAE consumers preferred to shop online in 2022 which is an increase from 89% in 2021. This has been driven by the pandemic which has altered consumer behaviour forever. So, it is no surprise that savvy business owners like you are looking to penetrate the UAE market.
Sharjah, in particular, has ample perks like free zones that make it a preferred destination to launch a digital venture. This requires an appropriate e-commerce license to sell goods via your own portal or well-established e-commerce companies. It strives to protect the intellectual properties and rights of entrepreneurs by regulating commercial transaction activities. If you are looking to start a business in this city, here are the license details you should know right away.
Sharjah’s E-Commerce License
It is a good idea to get in touch with the best free zone which can update you regarding the latest rules and regulations to get the e-commerce license.
Get the license within 45 minutes and enjoy benefits like:
- 100% foreign ownership with zero paid-up capital
- Up to 20 visas under a single license
- Choice of more than 1,500 business activities.
Besides the e-commerce license, the correct free zone to kickstart your business can offer a convenient location and onsite immigration services within the least time possible. The license can be obtained by anyone who is 18+. A reliable business set-up platform can help you successfully register as a user or a seller.
Steps to Get the E-Commerce License
Business advisors in a reputed free zone can help you with the license procedure. Below are the steps you will have to follow:
Documentation:
Arrange the documents like a copy of the sponsor passport or Emirate ID, local service agreement or civil works agreement, NOC from relevant authority and memorandum and articles of association. Make sure each document is legible, updated and authentic before submission.
Business Structure:
Decide on the legal structure of your business in Sharjah. Pick from commercial companies, sole proprietorship, general partnerships and limited liability companies.
Choose a Trading Name:
You can pick up to three names that are well-suited to the company. Make sure they are easy to understand, remember and pronounce. Avoid unpleasant or vulgar words. Check that it is not a duplicate or other well-established brand. The name should be followed by the business structure acronym likeFZE, FZC-LLC,LLC, EST or PJSC.
E-Channel and Immigration Card:
It helps to get your temporary entry permit valid for 60 days. You may leave and come back during this period. But try to avoid it since it can cause immigration troubles. This step is meant for those who are non-nationals of the Emirates. You may further apply for an Emirate ID as soon as the registration process is completed.
Fulfil Additional Requirements:
Decide on an office, warehouse and the number of employees to be hired.
Pay the Fees:
Clear the charges and your status change will be activated once the steps are done.
Now you are all set to conduct business in Sharjah. The Emirate ID will be helpful while accessing services like opening a corporate bank account.
Benefits of an E-Commerce License in Sharjah
There are plenty of enticing benefits of having an e-commerce license in hand.
- Access to low-cost business set-ups for entrepreneurs and e-commerce businesses in a well-established Sharjah free zone.
- Affordable support services by a reliable business platform provide the best chance to grow and expand your business.
- Holding annual exhibitions and tradeshows for greater exposure.
- Providing training and education courses.
The e-commerce license supports businesses like knowledge services, food activities, perfume production, electronic services and educational services. Businesses like schoolbook packages and binding, wedding photography, wedding dress rental, gift wrapping and jewellery making are also supported.
What to Know Before Opening an E-Commerce in Sharjah?
Keep the competition in mind since Sharjah is already home to more than 60,000 SMEs and start-ups across free zones and 33 industrial zones. Try offering innovative products and services or make sure yours are superior to others in the industry. Consider setting up a robust website and social media pages to boost online traffic.
Consult your free zone for advice. The best one usually offers abundant business support in a customer-focus and nurturing environment. Advanced infrastructure of the free zone along with easy access to markets can further help see significant ROI.