What documents does an Iranian national need to start a translation services business in the UAE?

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

How long does it take for an Iranian citizen to set up a translation services 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 are the tax implications for a Translation Services 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.

What documents do I need to set up a Translation Services business in Sharjah DED?

The standard documents required include: passport copies of all shareholders, passport-sized photographs, a completed application form, a business plan or activity description, and proof of address. IBA handles all document preparation and submission on your behalf.

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

Your Sharjah DED licence can include translation services 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 Translation Services licence in Sharjah DED?

The typical processing time for a translation services licence at Sharjah DED is 3 business days, subject to document completeness and any regulatory approvals. Since this is a non-regulated activity, the process is straightforward and typically completed within the standard timeframe.

How much does it cost to set up a Translation Services business in Sharjah Mainland?

The total setup cost for a Translation Services 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.

Translation Services in Sharjah Mainland for Iranian nationals

MainlandProfessional

Translation Services in Sharjah DED

Starting From

AED 7,500

Setup Time

3 Business Days

Visa Quota

0 Visas

Location

Sharjah

About Translation Services

As an Iranian national looking to establish a Translation Services business in Sharjah Mainland, the UAE offers one of the most welcoming environments for international entrepreneurs. Iran has strong bilateral trade relations with the UAE, and thousands of Iranian professionals have already successfully set up businesses across the emirates.

As a mainland entity regulated under Sharjah's commercial laws, your Translation Services business will benefit from cost-effective setup and adjacent to dubai. The Sharjah DED licensing framework is designed to accommodate both start-ups and established firms, with annual licence fees starting from approximately AED 7,500.

With over two decades of experience in UAE business formation, IBA International provides end-to-end support for your translation services setup in Sharjah DED. Our dedicated advisors handle the paperwork, government liaisons, and compliance requirements, so you can focus on building your business from day one.

Why Sharjah DED for Translation Services?

There are several compelling reasons why Sharjah Mainland continues to attract translation services entrepreneurs from around the world.

The jurisdiction offers cost-effective setup, which is particularly valuable for translation services 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 translation services professionals. Furthermore, industrial areas available positions your translation services 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.

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

Cost-effective setup

Adjacent to Dubai

Trade across the UAE

Industrial areas available

Growing business hub

Visa Requirements for Iranian Nationals

For Iranian entrepreneurs, the visa process works as follows: Iranian 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 translation services business in Sharjah DED.

Banking for Iranian Business Owners

Opening a corporate bank account for your translation services company in Sharjah DED: Iranian entrepreneurs may face additional due diligence requirements. IBA assists with navigating compliance procedures for successful account opening. IBA has established relationships with major UAE banks and will personally introduce you to relationship managers who understand Iranian business structures.

Document Attestation for Iranian Nationals

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

Requirements & Documents

1Valid Iran passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Detailed business plan or activity description

5Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)

6Entry stamp or valid UAE visa copy (if applying from within the UAE)

7Passport-sized photographs with white background

8Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)

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 translation services business plan and the best Sharjah DED licence options for Iranian nationals.

Document Preparation

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

Licence Application

Submit the translation services 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. Iranian nationals require a pre-arranged UAE visa.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. Iranian entrepreneurs may face additional due diligence requirements.

Start Operations

Your translation services 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, Iranian nationals can own 100% of most mainland business activities including translation services.

Translation Services in Other Jurisdictions

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