Construction in Sharjah Mainland for Canadian nationals
MainlandConstructionRegulated Activity

Construction in Sharjah DED

Starting From

AED 7,500

Setup Time

3 Business Days

Visa Quota

0 Visas

Location

Sharjah

About Construction

The UAE continues to attract Canadian entrepreneurs seeking to tap into the Middle Eastern market, and Sharjah DED is one of the most popular jurisdictions for construction operations. Growing Canadian business community (~40,000), which means you will find an established support network, community events, and nationality-specific resources to help your business thrive.

Operating from Sharjah Mainland gives your Construction business access to Sharjah's world-class infrastructure, including modern office facilities such as ejari office, co-working, private office and excellent connectivity. As a regulated activity, you will need approval from Dubai Municipality before commencing operations, but IBA's team handles this process seamlessly on your behalf.

IBA International has been helping entrepreneurs set up construction businesses in Sharjah Mainland since 2004. Our team of incorporation specialists will guide you through every step, from initial consultation to licence issuance and bank account opening, ensuring a smooth and efficient setup experience.

Why Sharjah DED for Construction?

Choosing Sharjah DED for your construction business comes with a host of strategic advantages that directly impact your bottom line and growth potential.

The jurisdiction offers cost-effective setup, which is particularly valuable for construction operations. Additionally, adjacent to dubai ensures that your business remains competitive in the regional market. Operating on the mainland allows you to trade directly with the local UAE market without restrictions, and you can bid on government contracts — a significant advantage over free zone entities. Office solutions start from AED 4,000 per year for a co-working, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. Trade across the UAE further enhances the appeal of Sharjah DED for construction professionals. Furthermore, industrial areas available positions your construction business for long-term success in the region. With Sharjah continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, Sharjah DED remains an excellent choice for both start-ups and established construction enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

For Canadian nationals specifically, the Sharjah government has fostered a business-friendly environment with streamlined processes that cater to the large Canadian business community.

Cost-effective setup
Adjacent to Dubai
Trade across the UAE
Industrial areas available
Growing business hub

Visa Requirements for Canadian Nationals

For Canadian entrepreneurs, the visa process works as follows: Canadian nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days. For business setup, a residence visa is processed after company incorporation. IBA handles the complete immigration procedure — from entry permit to residence visa stamping — so you can focus on launching your construction business in Sharjah DED.

Banking for Canadian Business Owners

Opening a corporate bank account for your construction company in Sharjah DED: Canadian nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening. Strong Canadian-UAE relations facilitate banking processes. IBA has established relationships with major UAE banks and will personally introduce you to relationship managers who understand Canadian business structures.

Document Attestation for Canadian Nationals

Document attestation for Canadian nationals involves: (1) Notarisation in Canada, (2) Attestation by Global Affairs Canada / Provincial Authentication, (3) UAE Embassy attestation in Dubai. IBA provides a complete attestation checklist specific to construction businesses to ensure nothing is missed.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid Canada passport (minimum 6 months validity)
2Documents attested by Global Affairs Canada / Provincial Authentication
3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi
4Professional qualification certificates or approvals from Dubai Municipality
5Completed application form for trade licence
6Office tenancy contract (Ejari) for the registered business address
7Relevant industry experience documentation
8Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)

Regulatory Note: Construction is a regulated activity in the UAE. Additional approval from Dubai Municipality is required. IBA can guide you through the full regulatory process.

Cost Breakdown

ItemCost (AED)
License Fee7,500
Visa Package (per visa)3,500
Ejari Office8,000
Co-Working4,000
Private Office15,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)From AED 19,000

* Costs are indicative and subject to change. Contact IBA for a personalised quote.

Setup Timeline

1

Consultation

Free consultation with IBA to discuss your construction business plan and the best Sharjah DED licence options for Canadian nationals.

2

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from Canada through Global Affairs Canada / Provincial Authentication and the UAE Embassy.

3

Licence Application

Submit the construction licence application to Sharjah DED. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.

4

Trade Licence Issued

Receive your official Sharjah DED trade licence within 3–6 business days.

5

Visa Processing

Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. Canadian nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days.

6

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. Canadian nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening.

7

Start Operations

Your construction business is ready to operate in the UAE. IBA provides ongoing PRO, accounting, and compliance support.

Total estimated time: 3 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Since the UAE's 2020 Commercial Companies Law amendment, Canadian nationals can own 100% of most mainland business activities including construction.

Get Started Today

Ready to set up your construction in Sharjah DED? Our team is here to help.

SPEAK TO AN ADVISORWHATSAPP US

Quick Facts

JurisdictionSharjah DED
Typemainland
EmirateSharjah
License FeeAED 7,500
Setup Time3 days
Visa Quota0
Activity Code41200

Official Source

www.sharjah.gov.ae

By IBA Business Setup Team

Last updated: 26 February 2026

International Business Advisors DMCC has been helping entrepreneurs set up businesses in the UAE since 2004, with 20+ years of hands-on expertise.

Ready to Start Your Construction?

Get a personalised quote for setting up your construction in Sharjah DED. Our advisors are ready to guide you through every step.