SRTIP Free Zone, Sharjah

Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park (SRTI Park); https://srtip.ae/

Established in 2016 in the Emirate of Sharjah, SRTIP is a general-purpose free zone focused on scientific and technological development, fostering a knowledge-driven economy. Currently, it is home to over 7,500 companies and partners.

SRTIP promotes research and innovation across various fields, encouraging collaboration among businesses, government entities, and the academic community. Key focus areas include advanced manufacturing, healthcare, environmental technologies, and digitalisation.

The free zone provides affordable business registration packages along with a clear and transparent pricing policy. 

SRTIP is a universal free zone with over 1,500 economic activities available to companies. Priority is given to companies and start-ups focused on technology, research and innovation.

Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Free Zone Authority

Amiri Decree No. 43 of 2017 On SRTI Park Company; Amiri Decree No. 44 of 2017 On RTI Park Incorporation Regulations.

• Commercial license (standard or special), which is optimal for trading activities, export and import of goods;
• Service license (standard or special), which is suitable for providing various types of services, including consulting, IT and other professional services;
• Mixed activities license;
• E-commerce license for online trading, marketplaces, online platforms, etc.
• General trading license;
• Crypto activities license.

One standard license in SRTIP can cover up to five economic activities.

You can set up a business in the UAE SRTIP free zone in one of the following forms:

• Free Zone Establishment (FZE) with a sole shareholder;
• Free Zone Company (FZC) with a number of shareholders from two to seven;
• Branch of a foreign company.

A company must have share capital as specified in its Memorandum of Association. While there is no minimum requirement for paid-up capital, the Free Zone Authority may establish a minimum amount for companies engaged in certain activities.

Foreign shareholders are allowed to own 100% of a company’s shares.

A company must appoint a director (minimum one and maximum seven), a manager, and a secretary. A shareholder, director, or secretary may also be appointed as a manager. A director may combine his position with that of secretary.

A company’s registered office and principal place of business must be located within SRTIP, unless otherwise permitted by the Authority. Depending on the company’s needs, various offices, co-working spaces, and workstations are available for rent.

SRTIP free zone companies must maintain accounting records and prepare audited financial statements annually, submitting them within six months of the end of the financial year.

Similar to all companies in the UAE, a free zone company is required to register for corporate tax and submit corporate tax returns.

Companies classified as “Qualifying Free Zone Persons” can benefit from a zero corporate tax rate.

A company’s annual expenses include:

• license renewal;
• office lease renewal;
• preparation of financial statements and audit;
• establishment card and residence visa renewal (as they expire);
• corporate service provider’s fees.

Foreign companies or those registered in other UAE free zones can transfer their incorporation to the SRTIP free zone. 

Likewise, a company registered in SRTIP may, with the approval of the Free Zone Authority, transfer its incorporation and continue its operations in a foreign jurisdiction.