What documents does a Lebanese national need to start a general contracting business in the UAE?

You will need a valid Lebanon passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in Lebanon, attested documents via Lebanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and a business plan for your general contracting venture.

How long does it take for a Lebanese citizen to set up a general contracting company in Sharjah DED?

The complete process — from initial application to trade licence issuance — typically takes 3–6 business days. Adding visa processing and bank account opening, the total timeline is approximately 13–23 business days.

What business activities can I include on my Sharjah DED licence?

Your Sharjah DED licence can include general contracting as the primary activity, along with related activities that fall under the same category. Mainland licences can include multiple activities, provided they fall within the same licence category (professional, commercial, or industrial). IBA advises on the optimal activity selection for your business needs.

How long does it take to get a General Contracting licence in Sharjah DED?

The typical processing time for a general contracting licence at Sharjah DED is 3 business days, subject to document completeness and any regulatory approvals. As a regulated activity requiring Dubai Municipality approval, additional time of 1-3 weeks may be required.

How much does it cost to set up a General Contracting business in Sharjah Mainland?

The total setup cost for a General Contracting business in Sharjah DED starts from approximately AED 7,500 for the trade licence. Additional costs include visa processing (AED 3,500 per visa), office space, and establishment card fees. IBA provides a detailed cost breakdown during your free consultation.

What are the annual renewal costs for a General Contracting business in Sharjah Mainland?

The annual licence renewal for a General Contracting Sharjah DED company costs approximately AED 7,500, which covers the trade licence fee. Additional annual costs may include office space rental, visa renewal, and establishment card fees. IBA provides renewal services to ensure uninterrupted business operations.

Can I get a residence visa with my General Contracting licence from Sharjah DED?

Yes, your general contracting licence from Sharjah DED entitles you to apply for residence visas. The number of visas depends on your office space size — larger offices qualify for more visas. Each visa costs approximately AED 3,500.

General Contracting in Sharjah Mainland for Lebanese nationals

MainlandConstructionRegulated Activity

General Contracting in Sharjah DED

Starting From

AED 7,500

Setup Time

3 Business Days

Visa Quota

0 Visas

Location

Sharjah

About General Contracting

Setting up a General Contracting business in Sharjah Mainland as a Lebanese citizen is a straightforward process when you understand the specific requirements that apply to Lebanon-based entrepreneurs. IBA International has helped hundreds of Lebanese business owners navigate the licensing, visa, and banking procedures unique to their nationality.

The licensing process at Sharjah DED has been streamlined significantly, with most construction 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 general contracting 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 General Contracting?

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

The jurisdiction offers cost-effective setup, which is particularly valuable for general contracting 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 general contracting professionals. Furthermore, industrial areas available positions your general contracting 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 Lebanese nationals specifically, the Sharjah government has fostered a business-friendly environment with streamlined processes that cater to the large Lebanese business community.

Cost-effective setup

Adjacent to Dubai

Trade across the UAE

Industrial areas available

Growing business hub

Visa Requirements for Lebanese Nationals

For Lebanese entrepreneurs, the visa process works as follows: Lebanese nationals require a pre-arranged UAE visa. Employment or investor visa is processed through the company after incorporation. IBA handles the complete immigration procedure — from entry permit to residence visa stamping — so you can focus on launching your general contracting business in Sharjah DED.

Banking for Lebanese Business Owners

Opening a corporate bank account for your general contracting company in Sharjah DED: Lebanese entrepreneurs have a strong reputation in UAE business circles. Many have established successful businesses across various sectors. IBA has established relationships with major UAE banks and will personally introduce you to relationship managers who understand Lebanese business structures.

Document Attestation for Lebanese Nationals

Document attestation for Lebanese nationals involves: (1) Notarisation in Lebanon, (2) Attestation by Lebanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, (3) UAE Embassy attestation in Dubai. IBA provides a complete attestation checklist specific to general contracting businesses to ensure nothing is missed.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid Lebanon passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by Lebanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Initial approval from the Department of Economic Development

5Passport-sized photographs with white background

6Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)

7Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)

8Detailed business plan or activity description

Regulatory Note: General Contracting 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

Item	Cost (AED)
License Fee	7,500
Visa Package (per visa)	3,500
Ejari Office	8,000
Co-Working	4,000
Private Office	15,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)	From AED 19,000

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

Setup Timeline

Consultation

Free consultation with IBA to discuss your general contracting business plan and the best Sharjah DED licence options for Lebanese nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from Lebanon through Lebanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

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

Trade Licence Issued

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

Visa Processing

Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. Lebanese nationals require a pre-arranged UAE visa.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. Lebanese entrepreneurs have a strong reputation in UAE business circles.

Start Operations

Your general contracting 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, Lebanese nationals can own 100% of most mainland business activities including general contracting.

General Contracting in Other Jurisdictions

SHAMS

From AED 6,150

RAKEZ

From AED 7,500

DIFC

From AED 12,000

Abu Dhabi DED

From AED 10,000

JAFZA

From AED 16,000

Dubai DED

From AED 12,000

DMCC

From AED 15,300

IFZA

From AED 11,750