What documents does an Australian national need to start a import export business in the UAE?

You will need a valid Australia passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in Australia, attested documents via Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and a business plan for your import export venture.

How long does it take for an Australian citizen to set up a import export 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.

How much does it cost to set up an Import Export business in Sharjah Mainland?

The total setup cost for an Import Export 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.

Can a foreigner own 100% of a Import Export company in Sharjah Mainland?

Yes, following the recent amendments to the UAE Commercial Companies Law, 100% foreign ownership is now permitted for most mainland activities, including import export. Previously, a local sponsor holding 51% was required, but this is no longer the case.

What are the tax implications for an Import Export business in Sharjah Mainland?

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.

Can I open a corporate bank account with my Sharjah DED Import Export licence?

Yes, with a valid trade licence from Sharjah DED, you can open a corporate bank account at any UAE bank. Mainland companies typically have the widest choice of banking partners. IBA assists with introductions and documentation for smooth bank account opening.

Do I need to be physically present in the UAE to set up a Import Export company in Sharjah DED?

Most of the setup process for a import export business in Sharjah DED can be completed remotely, with documents submitted online or via courier. However, you may need to visit the UAE for Emirates ID biometrics and bank account opening. IBA can coordinate to minimise your required visits.

Import Export in Sharjah Mainland for Australian nationals

MainlandCommercial

Import Export in Sharjah DED

Starting From

AED 7,500

Setup Time

3 Business Days

Visa Quota

0 Visas

Location

Sharjah

About Import Export

The UAE continues to attract Australian entrepreneurs seeking to tap into the Middle Eastern market, and Sharjah DED is one of the most popular jurisdictions for import export operations. Growing Australian business community (~25,000), 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 Import Export business access to Sharjah's world-class infrastructure, including modern office facilities such as ejari office, co-working, private office and excellent connectivity. The Import Export activity does not require any special regulatory approvals beyond the standard trade licence, simplifying the setup process considerably.

IBA International has been helping entrepreneurs set up import export 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 Import Export?

Choosing Sharjah DED for your import export 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 import export 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 import export professionals. Furthermore, industrial areas available positions your import export 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 commercial enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

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

Cost-effective setup

Adjacent to Dubai

Trade across the UAE

Industrial areas available

Growing business hub

Visa Requirements for Australian Nationals

For Australian entrepreneurs, the visa process works as follows: Australian 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 import export business in Sharjah DED.

Banking for Australian Business Owners

Opening a corporate bank account for your import export company in Sharjah DED: Australian nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening. Commonwealth banking standards are recognised by UAE banks. IBA has established relationships with major UAE banks and will personally introduce you to relationship managers who understand Australian business structures.

Document Attestation for Australian Nationals

Document attestation for Australian nationals involves: (1) Notarisation in Australia, (2) Attestation by Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, (3) UAE Embassy attestation in Dubai. IBA provides a complete attestation checklist specific to import export businesses to ensure nothing is missed.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid Australia passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)

5Completed application form for trade licence

6No Objection Certificate (NOC) if applicable

7Initial approval from the Department of Economic Development

8Entry stamp or valid UAE visa copy (if applying from within the UAE)

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 import export business plan and the best Sharjah DED licence options for Australian nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from Australia through Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

Submit the import export 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. Australian nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days.

Bank Account

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

Start Operations

Your import export 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, Australian nationals can own 100% of most mainland business activities including import export.

Import Export 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