What documents does a British national need to start a warehousing business in the UAE?

You will need a valid United Kingdom passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in United Kingdom, attested documents via Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), and a business plan for your warehousing venture.

How long does it take for a British citizen to set up a warehousing 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 long does it take to get a Warehousing licence in Sharjah DED?

The typical processing time for a warehousing 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.

What documents do I need to set up a Warehousing 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.

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

Yes, your warehousing 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.

Is Sharjah Mainland good for warehousing start-ups?

Sharjah DED is one of the most start-up-friendly jurisdictions in the UAE, offering cost-effective setup and adjacent to dubai. Flexible office solutions starting from AED 8,000 per year help keep initial overheads manageable.

What are the tax implications for a Warehousing 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.

Warehousing in Sharjah Mainland for British nationals

MainlandTransport

Warehousing in Sharjah DED

Starting From

AED 7,500

Setup Time

3 Business Days

Visa Quota

0 Visas

Location

Sharjah

About Warehousing

Setting up a Warehousing business in Sharjah Mainland as a British citizen is a straightforward process when you understand the specific requirements that apply to United Kingdom-based entrepreneurs. IBA International has helped hundreds of British 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 transport 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 warehousing 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 Warehousing?

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

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

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

Cost-effective setup

Adjacent to Dubai

Trade across the UAE

Industrial areas available

Growing business hub

Visa Requirements for British Nationals

British nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days. For business setup, a residence visa is processed after company incorporation. Once your warehousing licence is issued by Sharjah DED, IBA will process your residence visa application, Emirates ID, and medical fitness tests. The entire process typically takes 8–15 business days from licence approval to visa stamping.

Banking for British Business Owners

British nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening. UK-regulated banking history is viewed favourably by UAE banks. For your warehousing business in Sharjah DED, IBA recommends opening a corporate account with a bank that has experience serving British business owners. We will prepare your banking file including the trade licence, shareholder documents, business plan, and any United Kingdom-specific attestations required.

Document Attestation for British Nationals

British nationals setting up a business in the UAE will need to attest certain documents through Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). This typically includes your passport copy, educational certificates (if applicable for warehousing), and any existing business documents. The attestation must then be verified by the UAE Embassy in Abu Dhabi before submission to Sharjah DED.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid United Kingdom passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Passport-sized photographs with white background

5Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)

6Detailed business plan or activity description

7Office tenancy contract (Ejari) for the registered business address

8Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)

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 warehousing business plan and the best Sharjah DED licence options for British nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from United Kingdom through Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

Submit the warehousing 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. British nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days.

Bank Account

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

Start Operations

Your warehousing 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, British nationals can own 100% of most mainland business activities including warehousing.

Warehousing 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