The United Arab Emirates continues to cement its status as a global investment hub, offering world-class infrastructure, a business-friendly environment and a strategic location that bridges continents. At the forefront of this success is Hamriyah Free Zone Authority (HFZA) in Sharjah, which ranks as the second-best free zone globally in 2024. HFZA combines accessibility, innovation and unmatched services to attract businesses worldwide. Let’s delve into the benefits, processes and sectors that make HFZA a leading investor choice.
About Hamriyah Free Zone
Established in 1995, Hamriyah Free Zone spans over 30 million square metres and is home to 6,500 businesses from over 163 countries. Its proximity to the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman offers unparalleled trade and logistics advantages, making it an essential gateway to the Middle East, Africa and South Asia.
With investor-centric regulations, cutting-edge facilities and streamlined operations, HFZA supports a diverse array of industries, including manufacturing, trading, logistics and services.
Hamriyah Free Zone Authority Sharjah
Sharjah, the UAE’s third-largest emirate, is a harmonious blend of commerce, culture and community. Known as the Cultural Capital of the Arab World by UNESCO, Sharjah is not only a centre of artistic and educational excellence but also a thriving business hub.
Sharjah’s strategic investments in infrastructure and industry make it a preferred destination for investors seeking long-term growth and stability.
For detailed information about services and licensing requirements, reach out to the Hamriyah Free Zone Authority.
- Hamriyah Free Zone contact number: +971 6 526 3333
- Hamriyah Free Zone location: Head Office, Hamriya Free Zone, Sharjah
- Email: bdd@hfza.ae
Sectors in Hamriyah Free Zone
Investors can find several free zones and mainland areas in Sharjah. HFZA stands out by offering tailored solutions across six key sectors. Each sector is designed with industry-specific infrastructure, facilities and services to meet the unique needs of investors.
- Oil and Gas
- Food Park
- Global logistic park
- Industrial manufacture park
- Maritime industry
- Accelerator hub
How to Set Up a Business in HFZA
Setting up a business in HFZA is a seamless process designed to accommodate various industries and business models.
Step 1: Choose Your Licence Type
HFZA offers specialised licences to suit different business needs:
- Commercial Licence: For importing, exporting, distributing and storing specific goods.
- General Trading Licence: Allows trading an unlimited number of product categories.
- E-Commerce Licence: Ideal for businesses trading goods and services online.
- Service Licence: For consultancy and other professional services.
- Industrial Licence: Facilitates the import of raw materials, manufacturing and export of finished products.
Step 2: Choose Your Legal Structure
Businesses in HFZA can be set up under the following structures:
- Free Zone Establishment (FZE): A single-owner entity with limited liability.
- Free Zone Company (FZC): A multi-shareholder entity with limited liability.
- Branch or Subsidiary: For local or international companies seeking expansion into HFZA.
Step 3: Select Your Facility
HFZA provides a range of state-of-the-art facilities to cater to businesses of all sizes and sectors:
Office Spaces
- Flexible office units starting from 10 sqm to larger executive spaces.
- Fully equipped with telecom infrastructure.
- Renewable annual leases with free car parking.
- A broad range of permissible business activities and complete ownership rights.
Warehouses
- Pre-fabricated units designed for light to medium industries.
- Integrated with offices, toilets, pantry and fire safety systems.
- Available in sizes: 200 sqm, 400 sqm and 600 sqm.
- Power load capacities ranging from 20kW to 150kW, with infrastructure for water, electricity and telecom.
Industrial Land
- Plots starting from 2,500 sqm, are ideal for large-scale industrial operations.
- 25-year renewable leases with fixed rates for the first five years.
- Proximity to ports with a 14-metre-deep water port and a 7-metre-deep inner harbour.
Step 4: Register Your Business
Required Documents: For FZE or FZC:
- Passport copies of shareholders and managers.
- UAE visa copies or an NOC from the current sponsor.
For Branch or Subsidiary:
- Parent company licence and certificate of incorporation.
- Memorandum and Articles of Association of the parent company.
- Board resolution specifies the branch’s establishment, director and signatories.
Key Benefits of Hamriyah Free Zone
HFZA offers unparalleled advantages for investing in Sharjah’s real estate which makes it one of the most attractive free zones in the world.
Investor Benefits
- Full Foreign Ownership: Retain 100% control of your business.
- Tax Advantages: Zero corporate tax, income tax and customs duties.
- Repatriation: 100% repatriation of capital and profits.
Operational Advantages
- Quick Setup: Business registration in under 60 minutes.
- Digital Services: Access to 300+ online services for visa issuance, renewals and other administrative needs.
- Flexible Leasing: Cost-effective options for offices, warehouses and industrial land.
Auxiliary Features
- 24-hour security with advanced CCTV systems.
- On-site labour accommodations, medical facilities and recreation centres.
- Well-developed infrastructure for transportation, power and waste management.
Why Choose Al Hamriyah Free Zone Sharjah
Hamriyah Free Zone Authority stands out for its strategic location, cost-efficient solutions and business-friendly environment. Whether you’re launching a startup or expanding an existing enterprise, HFZA provides the tools, resources and infrastructure to drive your success.
Highlights of HFZA:
- Strategically located at the heart of global trade routes.
- Access to emerging markets across the Middle East, South Asia and Africa.
- Competitive pricing and transparent leasing terms.
- Supportive policies for international and local businesses.
Moreover, as per new property ownership laws in Sharjah, foreigners can also buy property in the emirate. They can also enjoy ownership rights set by Sharjah’s authorities.
FAQs
What is the Hamriyah Free Zone?
The Hamriyah Free Zone (HFZA) is an industrial zone in Sharjah established in 1995, hosting over 6,500 businesses from 163 countries.
Where is Hamriyah Free Zone located?
It is located in Sharjah, UAE, between the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, with strategic access to the Far East and Europe.
What are the benefits of setting up a business in HFZA?
Benefits include full foreign ownership, no customs duties, renewable lease options, online service access and proximity to global markets.
What industries operate in HFZA?
Industries include food, oil and gas, logistics, heavy industry, packaging, recycling, timber, textiles, steel and marine.
This is all about the Hamriyah Free Zone in Sharjah. The HFZA stands as a beacon of opportunity for businesses seeking to establish or expand in the UAE. With its strategic location, robust infrastructure and investor-friendly policies, HFZA offers a unique blend of benefits that cater to diverse industries and business needs.
Backed by streamlined processes, attractive incentives and a thriving ecosystem, HFZA is more than a free zone—it’s a gateway to global growth. Considering expanding your business to other emirates? Explore our comprehensive guide on free zones in Dubai to gain a deeper understanding of how they work and the opportunities they offer.
You can also get your hands on off-plan projects in Sharjah for investment purposes. For further queries, explore these frequently asked questions about investing in Sharjah.
To know more about real estate authorities in the UAE, stay tuned to the dubizzle’s property blogs.
Cover image credit: hfza.ae
