Affordable Business Setup in Dubai: Full Comparison of Mainland vs Sharjah Instant License
Looking for an affordable business setup in Dubai? Whether you’re a solo entrepreneur, SME owner, or global investor, Dubai offers flexible and cost-effective business formation routes. Two standout options are the Mainland license and the Sharjah Instant License. In this guide, we’ll help you understand the key differences between the two so you can confidently launch your venture in the UAE.
1. Mainland License: Full UAE Market Access
A Mainland company is registered with Dubai’s Department of Economic Development (DED). It provides full access to operate anywhere in the UAE and internationally, making it ideal for business owners targeting a wide customer base or government contracts.
Key Advantages:
100% foreign ownership in most sectors
No limitations on trade within the UAE
Can bid for government contracts
Unlimited visa quotas (based on office size)
Requires physical office space
Setup in 5–10 working days
Starting from AED 15,000
Learn more about DED Licensing →
2. Sharjah Instant License: Fast & Budget-Friendly Setup
For a low-cost and affordable business setup in Dubai’s neighbor emirate, Sharjah offers the Instant License, allowing entrepreneurs to start operations within 1 day without a lease or office contract in year 1.
Highlights:
100% foreign ownership
No MOA or lease needed in year one
License valid for most office-based activities
Employ up to 3 workers
Requires standard documentation upon renewal
Setup within 1 working day
Starting from AED 5,500 or lower message us for more info
Visit the official Sharjah SEDD portal →
3. Mainland vs Sharjah Instant License: Quick Comparison
| Feature | Dubai Mainland License | Sharjah Instant License |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership | 100% Foreign Ownership | 100% Foreign Ownership |
| Market Access | Full UAE & International | Sharjah only (upgrade needed later) |
| Office Requirement (Year 1) | Required | Not Required |
| Visa Quota | Unlimited | Up to 3 Employees |
| Government Contracts | Eligible | Not Eligible |
| Setup Speed | 5–10 Days | 1 Day |
| Starting Cost | AED 15,000+ | AED 5,500+ |
| Best For | Retail, Contracting, Logistics | Freelancers, Startups, Testing Ideas |
4. Who Should Choose Each Setup?
Choose Mainland If You:
Need full access across the UAE
Want to hire more than 3 employees
Plan to bid for government tenders
Need permanent presence with long-term scalability
Choose Sharjah Instant License If You:
Want a fast and affordable business setup in Dubai’s region
Are testing a concept with minimal overhead
Plan to upgrade after 12 months
Operate in low-risk, office-based industries like consulting or e-commerce
5. Final Thoughts
If you’re prioritizing low startup costs and fast market entry, the Sharjah Instant License is a powerful launchpad. If you’re ready to scale or want access across the entire UAE, the Mainland license gives you maximum reach and control.
Both paths offer 100% ownership and align with the UAE’s evolving regulatory landscape.
