Fashion Design in Sharjah Mainland
MainlandProfessional

Fashion Design in Sharjah DED

Starting From

AED 7,500

Setup Time

3 Business Days

Visa Quota

0 Visas

Location

Sharjah

About Fashion Design

Establishing a Fashion Design business in Sharjah Mainland positions you at the heart of Sharjah's dynamic commercial landscape, with access to a market of over 9 million consumers.

The licensing process at Sharjah DED has been streamlined significantly, with most professional licences processed within 3 business days. With the recent changes to UAE commercial law, 100% foreign ownership is now available for most mainland activities. The base licence fee is approximately AED 7,500, making it one of the most affordable options in the UAE.

At IBA International, we simplify the process of establishing your fashion design business in Sharjah Mainland. From selecting the right licence type to securing your visa and opening a corporate bank account, our experienced team ensures every detail is handled professionally and efficiently.

Why Sharjah DED for Fashion Design?

Sharjah Mainland is widely regarded as one of the UAE's premier destinations for professional businesses, and for good reason.

The jurisdiction offers cost-effective setup, which is particularly valuable for fashion design 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 fashion design professionals. Furthermore, industrial areas available positions your fashion design 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 professional enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

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

Requirements & Documents

1Completed application form for trade licence
2Initial approval from the Department of Economic Development
3Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)
4Office tenancy contract (Ejari) for the registered business address
5Detailed business plan or activity description
6Entry stamp or valid UAE visa copy (if applying from within the UAE)
7Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)
8Passport-sized photographs with white background

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

Initial Consultation

Begin with a free consultation with IBA's business setup advisors to discuss your fashion design business objectives, optimal licence structure, and Sharjah DED as your chosen jurisdiction. We assess your specific requirements and provide a transparent cost breakdown.

2

Choose Your Company Name

Select your company name and submit it for approval. The DED naming guidelines require the name to reflect the legal structure and activity. Reserved and restricted words require additional approvals. IBA handles the name reservation process.

3

Prepare & Submit Documents

Compile all required documentation including passport copies, photographs, and the completed application form. As a non-regulated activity, the documentation requirements are straightforward. IBA prepares and submits all paperwork on your behalf.

4

Obtain Trade Licence

Following DED approval, your Sharjah mainland trade licence is issued within 3 business days. The licence authorises you to conduct fashion design activities and is valid for one year. The licence fee is approximately AED 7,500.

5

Apply for Residence Visa

Once your licence is active, apply for your UAE residence visa and Emirates ID. The number of visas depends on your office space. Each visa costs approximately AED 3,500. IBA manages the entire visa process including medical testing and Emirates ID.

6

Open Corporate Bank Account

With your trade licence in hand, open a corporate bank account at a UAE bank. IBA provides introductions to relationship managers at leading banks including Emirates NBD, ADCB, RAKBank, and Mashreq. We prepare a comprehensive banking file to ensure smooth account approval.

7

Start Operations

With your licence issued, visa processed, and bank account active, your fashion design business in Sharjah Mainland is ready to operate. IBA continues to support you with PRO services, VAT registration, accounting, and annual licence renewals.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

The UAE introduced a 9% corporate tax on profits exceeding AED 375,000 (effective June 2023). Mainland companies are subject to the standard 9% corporate tax rate on taxable profits exceeding AED 375,000. There is no personal income tax in the UAE. VAT at 5% applies to most goods and services.

Guides by Nationality

Country-specific visa, banking, and document requirements for fashion design in Sharjah DED:

Get Started Today

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

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Quick Facts

JurisdictionSharjah DED
Typemainland
EmirateSharjah
License FeeAED 7,500
Setup Time3 days
Visa Quota0
Activity Code74120

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 Fashion Design?

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