BLOGS UAE SRTIP Freezone

Start Your Business with the Cheapest UAE Trade License at SRTIP, Sharjah

by Rifa S Laskar Oct 16, 2025 8 MIN READ

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If you’re exploring the cheapest trade license in UAE and want real value, SRTIP in Sharjah stands out. You can get a general trading license without breaking the bank. Here’s how it works, what’s included, what it costs & how it compares to other zones. By the end, you’ll see why SRTIP might be the smartest move for low-cost license seekers.

1. Introduction

Here’s what I want you to do imagine you’re starting a business in the UAE and your top priority is finding the cheapest trade license in UAE that still gives you what you need. You care about cost, flexibility, real permission to trade (import/export, e-commerce) & not being surprised later by any hidden fees.

That’s where a low-cost trade license in UAE becomes more than just a phrase. You need something affordable, clear, and practical. Sharjah Research, Technology & Innovation Park (SRTIP) is one of the rising options. Today we’ll break down what makes a license cheapest, how SRTIP measures up & whether its general trading license is right for you.

2. What Defines the Cheapest Trade License in the UAE?

To understand the cheapest trade license in UAE, you need to compare more than just the headline price. What really matters is what’s in the package, how flexible it is & what surprises may lie hidden. Let’s break it down:

  • License/package types (with or without visa)
    Some zones let you get the license only; visa(s) are extra. Others bundle one visa. Choosing the right non-visa licenses reduces cost but limits utility if you need a staff or residence permit
  • Office/flexi-desk options
    A full office space is expensive. A flexi desk or shared facility is cheaper. If you don’t need full premises, this is a big cost saver
  • Renewal fees
    The first year might be cheap but renewals can cost more. Check annual fees, renewal license cost & any increments
  • Activity flexibility (especially general trading)
    General trading allows you to deal in many kinds of goods. If the license allows general trading, you’re less restricted. If you need a specific goods license later, you may pay extra.
  • Hidden costs to watch out for
      • Government approvals, external approvals for regulated goods
      • Customs registration
      • Visa issuance and medical test/health insurance
      • Name reservation and translation costs
      • Deposit or minimum capital requirements (if any)

What this really means is that the cheapest trade license in UAE isn’t always the one with the lowest sticker price. It’s the one with the lowest total cost for what you actually need.

3. Top Affordable Free Zones for Trade Licenses in the UAE

Here’s a quick comparison of some of the zones known for low-cost trade licenses in UAE. I’ve listed approximate strengths, so you can see where SRTIP fits.

Free ZoneStrengthsDrawbacks
SRTIP (Sharjah Research, Technology & Innovation Park)Strong general trading options, flexible packages, good location near mainland SharjahNewer zone, fewer pre-established businesses, possible learning curve
SPC Free Zone (Sharjah Publishing City)Very low-cost packages, flexible optionsLimited prestige for some business types, might need more approvals for certain goods
IFZA (International Free Zone Authority, Dubai-adjacent)Reasonable cost, Dubai-oriented access; fast setupIt might be more expensive than the Sharjah zones for an equivalent general trading license
RAKEZ (Ras Al Khaimah)Competitive pricing, visa options, lots of activity typesFurther from Dubai, logistics costs could add up depending on your operations
UAQ Free Trade Zone (Umm Al-Quwain)Among lowest-cost license fees, simple proceduresLocation is remote compared to Sharjah or Dubai; less marine or export logistics support for some goods

4. General Trading at SRTIP – Why It Stands Out

Here’s where SRTIP really shines if your goal is finding the cheapest trade license in UAE but still doing serious business:

  • General trading eligibility
    SRTIP allows general trading licenses. That means you can import, export, buy & sell a wide variety of goods without having to get a separate license for each type. If you want a “general trading” scope, many zones force you into narrow categories. But SRTIP is more flexible
  • Flexibility for imports, exports & e-commerce
    If your business is partly or mostly online, or you want to ship goods in and out, SRTIP supports that. Physical location matters less if permits and customs registration are clear
  • Access to mainland markets via the Sharjah location
    Sharjah borders Dubai and is well connected. Being in SRTIP gives you logistical access to both sea ports and land routes. That lowers supply‐chain and delivery costs
  • Sector-friendly environment for innovation & commerce
    Because SRTIP is oriented toward research, technology & innovation, there can be incentives or regulatory ease for newer business models, import/export innovations & e-commerce. For general trading companies, that could translate into fewer delays or approvals.

5. SRTIP Trade License Cost Breakdown

Here are estimated cost figures for a general trading license at SRTIP, with and without a visa. Then comparison with other low-cost zones.

ParticularsAmount (AED)
Amount (AED)1 Year Trade License MOA
Certificate of Formation
Share Percentage certificate
Basic bank account opening assistance



5,500
Immigration Card (1 Year)Not applicable
Establishment cardNot applicable
Medical testNot applicable
Emirates IDNot applicable
Visa status change costNot applicable
Price5,500

6. What’s Included in the Package

Here’s what you usually get when you opt for the cheapest trade license in UAE through SRTIP (general trading package). This helps you see what you pay for, what’s real & avoid surprises.

  • License to operate general trading activities
  • Flexi desk or shared facility (if that’s the package you choose)
  • Company name reservation and registration
  • Initial approval or external approvals (where necessary)
  • Establishment card or similar registration with relevant authorities
  • Access to basic infrastructure (utilities, business support)
  • Some free-zone perks (maybe internet, security, etc.), depending on the package

What is not usually included (you’ll need to pay separately):

  • Visa(s) beyond those included
  • Office premises (fully furnished) if that’s required
  • Customs permits / import-export clearances (if goods need special approvals)
  • Health insurance, medical tests for visa holders

7. Step-by-Step: How to Get a Trade License in SRTIP

Here’s how you go from zero to having your trade license at SRTIP. Follow these steps:

  • Decide on activities – Identify the business activities you want, such as general trading & confirm they align with SRTIP regulations
  • Prepare documents – Gather essential paperwork this includes passport copies, proof of address & a brief business plan for submission
  • Reserve company name – Propose your preferred company name, submit it to SRTIP & wait for official approval before proceeding
  • Submit initial approvals – Certain business activities may require external or internal approvals; submit applications to secure authorization before license issuance
  • Secure license issuance – Pay the applicable fees, submit all required documents & receive your official trade license from SRTIP authorities
  • Apply for visa (optional) – If a visa is needed, complete medical tests, submit ID & finalize immigration procedures to obtain residence permits

8. SRTIP vs Other Cheap Trade License Jurisdictions

Here’s a comparison so you can spot what you’re getting in each zone. What’s the cost vs benefit?

Free ZoneApprox License Cost*Visa Option AvailableGeneral Trading AllowedLocation Benefit
SRTIPAED 8,000-13,000YesYesSharjah – near Dubai, good logistics
SPC Free Zone~ AED 7,000-10,000YesYesSharjah –  less central but cheaper packages
IFZA~ AED 10,000-14,000YesYesDubai area – more prestige, higher cost in some cases
RAKEZ~ AED 9,000-13,000YesYesRas Al-Khaimah – more remote, lower overheads
UAQ Free Trade Zone~ AED 7,000-10,000YesYesUmm Al-Quwain – lowest cost, but distance factors

* Estimated first-year cost including basic license and minimal facilities

From this table, you can see that while many zones offer a low-cost trade license in UAE, SRTIP competes very strongly when you add up its features, not just price

8. FAQs

Q1. Is SRTIP the cheapest free zone for general trading?
SRTIP offers the best value with low cost and flexible options

Q2. Can I get a visa with a trade license at SRTIP?
Yes, visa options are available; non-visa licenses cost less

Q3. How much does a general trading license cost in Sharjah?
AED 8,000-10,000 without visa; AED 13,000-18,000 with visa

Q4. Is SRTIP good for e-commerce and imports/exports?
Yes, ideal for e-commerce and import/export activities

9. Conclusion

If your goal is the cheapest trade license in the UAE, focus on value, not just price. A low-cost trade license in UAE should give you flexibility to operate, the legitimacy to trade freely & the room to grow your business. SRTIP stands out because it allows general trading, offers clear and transparent costs & provides visa options when needed. Its strategic Sharjah location opens doors to mainland markets while keeping expenses manageable. Choosing SRTIP means you get more than just a license you get a practical, cost-effective foundation to build and expand your business confidently. Partner with Arnifi for seamless SRTIP trade license setup, visa processing, compliance, and renewals. Launch your business affordably and confidently.

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