How to Set Up a Business in SRTIP Free Zone?

Sharjah, UAE- SRTIP Free Zone has a great offer for entrepreneurs and innovators gearing up to settle into a research-driven ecosystem. Formed in 2016, the SRTIP has quickly developed into a landmark for technology in the UAE, sustainability, and advanced manufacturing. This guide walks you through all aspects of setting up your business in SRTIP in the year 2025-from strategic advantages to detailed cost structures.

1. Introduction Why Choose SRTIP Free Zone?

SRTIP aims to create a dynamic innovation ecosystem by promoting industry, government, and academia-the “triple helix” model. Strategically located near University City in Sharjah, it taps directly into a rich talent pool and state-of-the-art research facilities. This free zone is a center for R&D within intellectual property (IP) protection, 100% foreign ownership, and hassle-free and business-friendly, to name a few. Undoubtedly, this free zone would cater to the emerging needs of startups wishing to incubate and commercialize their innovations in science and technology.

2. Key Benefits of a Business Setup in SRTIP

Setting up your business in SRTIP has multiple advantages designed to accelerate growth and innovation:

• Vibrant Innovation Ecosystem: Access to state-of-the-art laboratories, R&D facilities, and collocated environments with industry giants and academic institutions.
• Government Grant Eligibility: Opportunities for grants and support for innovation projects.
• Support for Female Entrepreneurs: Discounted packages and specific offerings, such as the Women in Innovation Hi-Tech Office, are provided to encourage women in technology.
• Tax-Free Operations: Enjoy 0% corporate or personal income tax.
• Full Repatriation of Profits: 100% repatriation of capital and profits.
• Rapid Licensing: The process of obtaining business licenses is quick, usually taking between 5 and 10 working days.

To help with global business expansion
make sure you choose us.

Get in touch with our team to find out about our approach

BOOK FREE CONSULTATION

Response within 24 Hours

3. License Types & Business Activities

SRTIP provides a range of licensing options to cater to various business models. You can choose from over 1,500 business activities.

License Categories:

• Trading License: For import, export, distribution, and storage of specific goods
• Service License: For businesses providing professional services like consulting, IT, and marketing.
• Industrial License: Commercial Licenses are essential for permission to manufacture, produce, and assemble
• E-Commerce License: For online companies, according to the buying and selling of goods and services

Focus Sectors: The SRTIP mainly focuses on R&D activities across key domains such as water management, renewable energy, environmental technology, transport and logistics, digitalization, and smart manufacturing.

4. Eligibility & Required Documents

The process to set up a business in SRTIP has been designed to be simple.

• Eligibility Criteria: The main requirement in this respect is having a specific business plan that fits into the innovative and research-oriented character of the free zone
  
• Required Documents for Individuals –
• Completed registration and licensing application
• A comprehensive business plan
• Passport copies of all shareholders and managers
• Passport-sized photographs
• Proof of residence (e.g., utility bill)
  
• For Corporate Shareholders: Certificate of Incorporation; Memorandum and Articles of Association (MOA & AOA); and written approval by the Board
• External Approvals: Additional approvals from different concerned government departments would be required, depending upon the particular business activity

5. Step-by-Step Setup Process

Describing the setup process in SRTIP can be put into easy and manageable steps:

• Select Business Activity and Structure: Choose the desired business activity and legal structure (FZE for a single shareholder or FZC for multiple shareholders)
• Trade Name Reservation: Select a name for the approval of your company
• Submit Application and Documents: Fill out the application form and submit all attachable documents
• Initial Approval and MOA Signing: Sign the Memorandum of Association after the first approval
• License Issuance: After payment of the license fees, normally within 4-5 working days, the license will be issued
• E-channel Registration and Visa Process: Register for the e-channel system to start the visa application
• Emirates ID and Medical Test: Undergo mandatory medical tests and apply for an Emirates ID

6. Office Space & Visa Quota Options

SRTIP offers a variety of modern and flexible workspace solutions, each with a specific visa quota:

• Maktabi Co-working Space: Ideal for freelancers and startups, offering a designated desk and three visa quotas.
• Hi-Tech Office: Designed for new businesses, providing access to networking events and three visas per desk.
• Startup Office: A 16 sq. m. fully furnished office with a six-visa quota.
• SME Office: Ranging from 20-27 sq. m., these offices come with an eight-visa quota.
• Ecosystem Office: Larger furnished spaces (50-80 sq. m.) accommodating ten or more visas.
• Innovation Office & Plots: Customizable “shell and core” spaces and land plots with tailored, unlimited visa quotas for larger enterprises

7. Cost Breakdown: Setup & Licensing Fees

SRTIP is known for its cost-effective business setup packages.

• License Only Package: Starts at approximately AED 5,500.
• Package with 1 Visa: Around AED 13,600 to AED 13,990.
• Package with 2 Visas: Approximately AED 17,795.
• Higher-Tier Packages: Costs can range up to AED 25,000 and beyond, depending on the office type and number of visas required.

To help with global business expansion
make sure you choose us.

Get in touch with our team to find out about our approach

BOOK FREE CONSULTATION

Response within 24 Hours

8. Visa & Immigration Charges

Understanding the costs associated with residency is crucial for budgeting.

• Employment Visa (2-year): Approximately AED 2,950 – AED 3,170.
• E-channel Registration: Around AED 2,575.
• Medical Test and Emirates ID: Fees are approximately AED 400 for a normal medical check and AED 400 for the Emirates ID application.

9. Comparison: SRTIP vs Other UAE Free Zones

While there are plenty of UAE free zones that offer attractive benefits, SRTIP has a unique focus that sets it apart.

• vs. DMCC, IFZA, Meydan: SRTIP’s main advantage as compared to more commercially focused free zones like DMCC or IFZA is its deep academic integration with R&D and technology sectors. While the others would perhaps be more wide-ranging in their offering of general business activities, SRTIP has created unique infrastructure and support systems for innovation-friendly companies.
• vs. Sharjah Media City (Shams): Whereas Shams is a hub for media and creativity, SRTIP has a scientific and engineering focus.
• Timeline and Support: The setup process at SRTIP is quite well considered, and its nurturing support of startups, including mentoring and networking opportunities, tends to give it a far more friendly environment than those large and generic free zones.

10. Operational & Recurring Costs

Beyond the initial setup, businesses need to account for annual recurring costs:

• Annual License Renewal: Fees are paid annually to maintain the trade license.
• Office Lease Renewals: The cost of renewing your chosen office space.
• PRO/Document Services: Fees for professional services for visa renewals, document clearing, and other administrative tasks.
• Insurance: Business and employee health insurance are mandatory.
• Utilities and Bank Fees: Standard operational costs for electricity, internet, and corporate banking.
• Audit and Reporting: Potential costs associated with annual audits and corporate tax compliance.

11. Target Businesses & Ideal Use Cases

SRTIP is the perfect environment for a specific profile of businesses:

• Tech Startups: They form a cool ecosystem for startups working in AI, blockchain, and IoT.
• Innovation-led SMEs: Small and medium enterprises keen to develop new products and technologies.
• R&D Firms: A single name representing companies for research in renewable energy, water technology, and smart manufacturing.
• Women Founders: Specialised hi-tech offices and support packages make it a lucrative avenue for women entrepreneurs.
• Laboratories and Testing Centers: The advanced infrastructure is ideal for scientific testing and development.
• Digital Service Providers: Consultants and digital service companies can leverage the collaborative environment.

To help with global business expansion
make sure you choose us.

Get in touch with our team to find out about our approach

BOOK FREE CONSULTATION

Response within 24 Hours

12. Common Pitfalls & Setup Considerations

Setting up may be very mobile, but there are possible difficulties that entrepreneurs may face during this process:

• Hidden Fees from Consultants: Always clarify all costs at the beginning, and think about dealing directly with the free zone authority or a trusted set-up partner.
• Visa Quota vs. Office Space Mismatch: Choose an office space according to your existing and future visa needs.
• Delays in External Approvals: It takes time to secure approvals from external ministries for certain specialized activities.
• Bank Account Challenges: Opening a corporate bank account in the UAE can have stringent due diligence processes. Be prepared with a solid business plan and all necessary documentation.

13. Case Scenarios & Budget Examples

Here are a few illustrative budget scenarios:

• Example 1: Digital Service Trader: Setting up a co-working desk with a one-visa package would entail around AED 14,000 in initial costs.
• Example 2: SME Office: An SME office with a two-visa package could cost around AED 20,000 initially.
• Example 3: Innovation Plot: The innovation plot for a bigger R&D facility, having multiple visas, would start from AED 25,000+, the final rate depending on the area and customizations to be done.

14. Tips to Optimize Setup Cost & Timeline

• Choose the Smallest Valid Office: Start with a facility that meets your immediate needs to minimize initial costs.
• Apply Early: Starting the application process long before any major event or deadline can compensate for various possible delays.
• Bundle Visa and License Packages: Packages bundled by SRTIP improve cost-effectiveness.
• Negotiate Deposit Terms: Clarify terms on any deposit(e.g., Security Deposit) required for the office space.
• Use the Official Portal: For the most accurate information and latest updates, refer to the official channels of SRTIP.

15. Conclusion & Action Checklist

Setting up a business in SRTIP in 2025 is a strategic decision for any technology or research-related industry. A combination of 100% foreign ownership, tax incentives, world-class facilities, and a collaborative ecosystem creates an unrivaled growth environment.

Action Checklist:

• Finalize Business Plan: Clearly outline the business activity and goal.
• Gather Documents: All required personal and corporate documents should be prepared.
• Select License and Office Package: Options should be selected that fit best in terms of budget and visa requirements.
• Submit Application: Official SRTIP portal or credible consultant.
• Plan for Visa Processing: Factor in the time for medical tests and Emirates ID issuance.
• Initiate Bank Account Opening: Start this process as soon as your license is issued.

How Arnifi Can Help

Starting a business in a specialized jurisdiction like SRTIP can be complicated, which is where a professional services firm such as Arnifi comes in. Arnifi acts as a strategic partner to simplify the entire company formation process from end to end. They offer advisory services customized to help you choose the best license and office package for your specific R&D focus and budget. 

The team of experts will take on the very important and time-consuming jobs of document preparation, submission, and following up with the free zone authority while maintaining strict compliance with all rules and regulations. 

Furthermore, the company’s comprehensive support goes beyond setup and includes services such as processing visas, assistance in opening corporate bank accounts, and onward advisory on accounting and tax duties, all of which help you to avoid typical traps and allow you to focus on your true innovation and business growth.