Business Setup in SRTIP Free Zone: 2026 Guide
If you are looking to set up a business in the UAE that sits at the intersection of technology, research, and innovation, SRTIP is one of the most purposeful choices available. Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park, known as SRTI Park or SPark, is a government-backed free zone that was established in 2016 specifically to bring together startups, established companies, researchers, and academic institutions under one ecosystem.
Licence packages at SRTIP start from AED 5,500 (approx. USD 1,498), making it one of the more accessible free zones in the UAE for tech-focused businesses. Companies benefit from 100% foreign ownership, no corporate tax on qualifying income, and a streamlined digital setup process that takes as little as 7 to 10 working days. According to SRTI Park’s official figures, the free zone now supports a thriving ecosystem of over 10,000 startups, SMEs, and innovation programmes.
This guide covers everything you need to know about setting up a company in SRTIP: the business activities allowed, the licence packages and costs, the step-by-step process, visa options, office types, and the unique innovation support programmes that set SRTIP apart from other free zones in Sharjah and across the UAE.
What Is SRTIP Free Zone and Who Regulates It?
SRTIP (Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park) is a specialised free zone in Sharjah, UAE, regulated and operated by the SRTI Park Free Zone Authority. It was established in 2016 by a royal decree issued by H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, the Ruler of Sharjah, with a mandate to drive research, innovation, and the development of a knowledge-based economy in the emirate.
Who established SRTIP, and what is its mandate?
SRTIP was founded by royal decree as a platform to bridge academia, industry, and government. Its stated mission is to empower startups and enterprises to develop, test, and commercialise innovations in high-growth sectors. According to SRTI Park’s official website, the vision is to position Sharjah as a global leader in innovation and knowledge-based industries, in line with the UAE’s long-term economic development agenda.
The free zone is not merely a licensing authority; it functions as an innovation hub that brings together state-of-the-art laboratories, prototyping facilities, business accelerator programmes, and access to angel investment. This distinguishes it from general-purpose free zones that primarily offer a trade licence and office space.
Where is SRTIP located?
SRTIP is located next to University City in Sharjah, placing it in close proximity to more than 20 higher education institutions. The park is situated approximately 4 km from Sharjah International Airport and 20 km from Dubai International Airport, giving companies convenient access to both UAE and international markets. The location also facilitates direct collaboration between businesses and the academic community, which is central to SRTIP’s model.
What Types of Companies and Business Activities Are Allowed in SRTIP?
SRTIP supports over 1,500 approved business activities, spanning commercial, trading, consultancy, services, and advanced manufacturing. The free zone is particularly well suited to businesses working in technology, sustainability, healthcare, and innovation-led sectors.
What research and innovation sectors does SRTIP focus on?
According to SRTI Park’s official guidance, the free zone focuses on four primary research and innovation domains:
- Advanced Manufacturing: Precision manufacturing in aerospace and automotive sectors, covering cutting-edge engineering and design.
- Healthcare: Advanced medical devices, AI-driven healthcare solutions, hospital automation, and Insurtech.
- Sustainability and Environmental Technology: Eco-friendly solutions in waste management, precision agriculture, and resource efficiency.
- Mobility and Logistics Digitisation: Autonomous and smart transportation systems designed to reduce congestion, eliminate pollution, and improve safety.
The free zone also supports businesses in renewable energy, water management and purification, digital technology, and robotics. This broad sectoral focus means SRTIP can accommodate a wide range of tech-driven businesses, from early-stage startups to established multinational R&D operations.
What licence types are available in SRTIP?
SRTIP offers a range of licence types to match different business models:
- Commercial Licence: For businesses engaged in the buying and selling of goods.
- Trading Licence: For general trading activities across multiple product categories.
- Services Licence: For professional and consultancy service providers.
- E-Commerce Licence: For businesses operating online retail or digital marketplace models.
- Consultancy Licence: For advisory and specialist consultancy businesses.
Businesses can include up to five activities on a single licence, and SRTIP does not charge an additional fee for adding extra activities or shareholders, which is a notable advantage over many other free zones.
Start Your SRTIP Business with 100% Foreign Ownership
Over 1,500 approved activities. No local sponsor needed. Set up in 7 to 10 working days.
What Are the Steps to Set Up a Company in SRTIP?
Setting up a company in SRTIP takes between 7 and 10 working days and is handled entirely through a digital portal, meaning you do not need to be physically present in Sharjah to complete the process. According to SRTI Park’s official guidance, the setup journey follows six clear stages.
Step 1: Choose your business activity
The first step is to identify the business activity or activities you intend to carry out. With over 1,500 approved activities across trading, consultancy, advanced manufacturing, renewable energy, and global trade, SRTIP accommodates most tech-focused and innovation-led business models. The activity you select determines your licence type, so it is worth taking time at this stage to align your licence with your actual operations.
Step 2: Reserve your trade name
Once you know your activity, you choose a trade name for your company. The name must be distinctive, comply with SRTIP’s naming regulations, and be suitable for both UAE and international markets. Generic names or names that are identical to existing registered companies will not be approved.
Step 3: Prepare your documents
You will need to gather the following documents before submitting your application:
- Passport copies of all shareholders and directors
- Completed SRTIP application form
- Business plan
- Memorandum of Association (MoA)
- Passport-size photographs of all shareholders and directors
- Office lease agreement (if applicable to your chosen package)
For corporate shareholders, additional documents such as a Certificate of Incorporation, board resolution, and audited financial statements may be required.
Step 4: Submit via SRTIP’s digital portal
All documents are uploaded through SRTIP’s secure online system. The portal allows you to track your application in real time and receive updates without needing to visit the SRTIP offices in person. This fully digital process makes SRTIP particularly practical for overseas founders setting up their first UAE entity.
Step 5: Receive your licence
Once your application is reviewed and approved, SRTIP issues your trade licence. From submission to licence issuance typically takes 7 to 10 working days, though this can vary depending on the completeness of your documents and any queries raised during the review process. Your licence is your official authorisation to operate within the UAE as an SRTIP free zone company.
Step 6: Complete your post-setup essentials
After receiving your licence, you will need to complete a few further steps to become fully operational:
- Secure residency visas based on your package allocation.
- Obtain Emirates ID cards for yourself and your team.
Open a corporate bank account. SRTIP’s in-house accelerator programme (SAIA) can provide documentation support and introductions to banking partners.
What Documents Are Required to Register a Company in SRTIP?
SRTIP’s document requirements are standard for a UAE free zone and can all be submitted digitally. The full list of required documents is as follows:
- Passport copies of each shareholder and director (coloured scan, valid for at least six months)
- Emirates ID copies for UAE residents (shareholders and directors)
- Proof of address for each shareholder and director (utility bill or bank statement, dated within three months)
- Passport-size photographs of each shareholder and director (white background)
- Completed SRTIP application form
- Business plan outlining the nature and scope of your proposed activities
- Memorandum of Association (MoA)
- Board Resolution (required for corporate shareholders)
- Certificate of Incorporation (for existing corporate shareholders)
- Office lease agreement (if opting for a physical office space)
SRTIP’s digital portal accepts scanned copies of all documents. Original documents are not required at the initial application stage, though they may be requested for verification in certain circumstances.
Get Your SRTIP Documents Checklist Sent Directly to You
Know exactly what to prepare before you apply. No surprises, no delays.
What Are the Government Fees and Setup Costs for SRTIP?
SRTIP publishes three core licence packages on its official website, with costs starting from AED 5,500 (approx. USD 1,498). The total cost of setting up will depend on the package you choose, the office type you require, and the number of visas you need.
What are the licence package costs?
According to SRTI Park’s official pricing, the three standard licence packages are as follows:
| Package | Cost (AED) | Approx. Cost (USD) | Visas Included | Activities Included | Key Inclusions |
| Zero Visa Package | AED 5,500 | USD 1,498 | None | 5 | Trade licence, registered business address, up to 5 business activities |
| One Visa Package | AED 13,990 | USD 3,810 | 1 residency visa | 5 | Trade licence, Emirates ID, e-channel registration, 1 residency visa |
| Two Visa Package | AED 17,795 | USD 4,847 | 2 residency visas | 5 | Trade licence, Emirates ID, e-channel registration, 2 residency visas |
The Zero Visa Package is ideal for solo founders and digital-first businesses that do not need UAE residency visas but want the credibility of a UAE trade licence and a registered business address. The One Visa Package suits founders who want to be based in the UAE, while the Two Visa Package works well for small teams with a co-founder or key manager.
What are the office and facility costs?
If you require a physical workspace beyond a registered address, SRTIP offers several office options at additional cost. The Maktabi co-working package includes three dedicated desks and meeting room access. The SME Office (20 to 27 square metres, fully furnished) and the Ecosystem Office (50 to 80 square metres, fully furnished) are available for teams requiring private, dedicated space. Pricing for office packages varies and should be confirmed directly with SRTIP at the time of enquiry, as rates are subject to availability and annual review.
Are there any additional or hidden fees?
SRTIP does not charge a separate fee for adding additional business activities or shareholders, which keeps the overall cost lower than many comparable free zones. The packages listed above are all-inclusive for what they cover. However, costs such as medical fitness tests, Emirates ID processing, and health insurance for visa holders are additional and are charged at standard UAE government rates. A typical residency visa in a UAE free zone costs between AED 3,800 and AED 6,500 when all associated fees (medical, Emirates ID, e-channel) are included.
What Is the Minimum Share Capital Requirement in SRTIP?
SRTIP does not impose a minimum share capital requirement for most business activities. This means you can incorporate your company without depositing a set amount of capital into a bank account before registration, which reduces the upfront financial commitment considerably.
This is in contrast to some other UAE free zones and mainland jurisdictions that set minimum capital thresholds. For certain regulated activities, particularly in financial services or healthcare, additional licensing requirements from federal or emirate-level regulators may apply, so it is worth confirming requirements specific to your activity with SRTIP before proceeding.
See the Full Breakdown of SRTIP Costs Before You Commit
Licence fees, visa costs, office options all explained in one place.
How Many Visas Can I Get with My SRTIP Licence?
The number of visas available to you depends on the package and office type you choose. SRTIP’s visa allocation ranges from zero (for the Zero Visa Package) to 10 or more (for the Ecosystem Office).
| Package or Office Type | Visa Allocation |
| Zero Visa Package | 0 visas (licence and address only) |
| One Visa Package | 1 residency visa |
| Two Visa Package | 2 residency visas |
| Maktabi Co-Working Space | Subject to desk allocation |
| SME Office (20 to 27 sqm) | Up to 8 visas |
| Ecosystem Office (50 to 80 sqm) | 10 or more visas |
For businesses that need more visas than their standard package allows, SRTIP offers the option to add additional visas at an incremental cost. The SME Office is particularly suitable for growing teams of up to eight people, while the Ecosystem Office caters to established R&D teams and companies running larger projects.
How much does a residency visa cost in SRTIP?
A residency visa in SRTIP typically costs between AED 3,800 and AED 6,500 (approx. USD 1,035 to USD 1,770), depending on the applicant’s nationality and the specific processing fees applicable at the time. This cost covers the visa itself, the medical fitness test, Emirates ID issuance, and e-channel registration. SRTIP’s official team can provide an accurate quote for your specific situation during the onboarding process.
What Facilities and Office Options Are Available in SRTIP?
SRTIP offers a variety of workspace solutions to suit businesses at every stage of growth, from individual founders using a co-working desk to established enterprises requiring large, customised office spaces. Below is an overview of the main facility types available.
Maktabi Co-Working Space
The Maktabi package provides three dedicated desks in a shared co-working environment, along with access to meeting rooms and networking opportunities. It is designed for founders and small teams who want a physical presence in SRTIP without committing to the cost of a private office. Amenities include high-speed Wi-Fi, shared facilities, and security.
First Step Hi-Tech Office
This package is designed specifically for startups that are less than three years old. It provides a cost-effective entry into SRTIP’s ecosystem and is tailored to give early-stage companies access to the innovation environment, events, and talent networks within the park, making it a strong option for founders building their first UAE company.
SME Office
The SME Office provides a fully furnished, private workspace measuring 20 to 27 square metres, with up to eight visa allocations. It is suitable for small and medium-sized teams looking for a professional, standalone working environment. The space includes a private working area, access to meeting rooms, reception services, and on-site parking.
Ecosystem Office
The Ecosystem Office is a larger, fully furnished space measuring 50 to 80 square metres, with 10 or more visa allocations. It is intended for established teams, larger SMEs, and R&D-intensive companies that require significant space and a high headcount. The Ecosystem Office provides the same amenities as the SME Office but with greater capacity.
Innovation Office and Innovation Plot
For businesses that need completely flexible or custom-built space, SRTIP also offers Innovation Offices and Innovation Plots. The Innovation Office is a blank-canvas workspace where companies can configure the layout to suit their specific requirements. An Innovation Plot goes further, giving businesses the option to design and construct their own facility on a dedicated plot within the park, with full flexibility over size, design, and the number of visa allocations.
Event and Conference Venues
A distinctive feature of SRTIP is its 13 purpose-built event and conference venues, which businesses registered in the park can use for corporate events, product launches, investor meetings, and networking gatherings. The main venues include:
- The Colosseum: SRTIP’s largest venue, with a capacity of 500 guests.
- Innovation Lounge: A semi-private space with multiple meeting rooms and a coffee bar, accommodating up to 60 people.
- Auditorium: A technology-equipped auditorium for 128 people, fitted with state-of-the-art audio and visual systems.
- Seminar Hall 1: Capacity for 30 people.
- Seminar Hall 2: Capacity for 26 people.
- 39 Clouds: An atmospheric venue featuring LED cloud-shaped structures for evening events.
- Park Oasis: An indoor venue designed to bring an outdoor feel inside, with natural elements and glass features.
- Additional spaces including The Dome, The Space, East Zone, and West Zone.
Find the Right SRTIP Office for Your Team Size and Budget
From co-working desks to full innovation plots, compare every option.
What Are the Key Benefits of Setting Up in SRTIP?
SRTIP offers a combination of standard UAE free zone benefits and unique innovation-focused advantages that make it particularly attractive for technology and research-driven businesses.
100% foreign ownership
Like all UAE free zones, SRTIP allows foreign nationals to own 100% of their company without the need for a local UAE national partner or sponsor. This is a significant advantage for overseas entrepreneurs and multinationals establishing a UAE entity.
Tax advantages
Companies registered in SRTIP benefit from 0% corporate tax on qualifying income, subject to the UAE’s Federal Corporate Tax Law (Federal Decree-Law No. 47 of 2022), which came into effect on 1 June 2023. Qualifying Free Zone Persons that meet the substance and activity requirements set by the Federal Tax Authority can continue to benefit from the 0% rate. Profits above AED 375,000 that do not qualify under the free zone rules are subject to a 9% corporate tax rate. There is no tax on imports or exports, and businesses can repatriate 100% of their profits and capital.
Speed and simplicity of setup
SRTIP’s fully digital incorporation process means businesses can be set up in 7 to 10 working days without any requirement for in-person attendance. The online portal allows document upload, real-time tracking, and licence issuance entirely remotely, which is particularly convenient for overseas founders.
Strategic location
Positioned next to University City in Sharjah, SRTIP benefits from proximity to over 20 universities and research institutions. The 4 km distance from Sharjah International Airport and 20 km from Dubai International Airport make it accessible for international business travel and logistics.
No additional fee for multiple activities or shareholders
SRTIP does not charge separately for adding extra business activities or shareholders to a licence, which compares favourably with free zones that levy incremental fees for each additional activity or partner.
What Unique Advantages Does SRTIP Offer Compared to Other Free Zones?
Beyond the standard free zone package, SRTIP offers three significant programmes that are not typically found in other UAE free zones, and which provide real, practical value for innovation-led businesses.
SAIA Accelerator Programme
The Sharjah Advanced Industry Accelerator (SAIA) is a structured programme designed to empower startups with funding, mentorship, and market access. According to SRTI Park’s official information, SAIA is specifically aimed at tech-based companies and has run multiple cohorts. For eligible businesses, SAIA provides a pathway to connect with investors, industry partners, and government stakeholders within the SRTIP ecosystem. Access to SAIA is one of the more tangible advantages of choosing SRTIP over a general-purpose free zone.
SoiLab Prototyping Centre
SoiLab is SRTIP’s in-house innovation and prototyping hub, described on the official SRTI Park website as a collaborative innovation hub designed to support entrepreneurs, researchers, and businesses in prototyping, testing, and developing breakthrough technologies. SoiLab is equipped with specialist facilities across five dedicated workshops:
- Wood Shop: Precision woodworking with CNC routers, lathes, and cutting tools, suitable for furniture design and custom fabrication.
- Metal Shop: Industrial-grade metalworking equipment for welding, shaping, and machining metal components.
- Laser Studio: High-speed laser cutting for plastics, metals, wood, and other materials, ideal for custom industrial design and prototyping.
- 3D Studio: Cutting-edge 3D printing and scanning technologies for rapid prototyping across a variety of materials.
- Electronics Lab: Fully stocked circuit design, PCB fabrication, and IoT development lab with professional-grade testing equipment.
Access to SoiLab is particularly valuable for hardware startups and manufacturers who need to prototype and test physical products without the capital expense of setting up their own lab.
Sharjah Business Angels Network (SBAN)
SBAN, the Sharjah Business Angels Network, is a network of investors that supports early-stage startups in high-growth industries through mentorship and capital funding. According to SRTI Park’s official guidance, SBAN provides startups with access to a dynamic pool of angel investors willing to back innovative ideas. For founders seeking seed or early-stage funding, SBAN is a meaningful differentiator that SRTIP holds over most other Sharjah or UAE free zones.
Access SRTIP's Accelerator, Prototyping Lab and Angel Network
Funding, mentorship and R&D facilities that most free zones cannot offer.
How Does SRTIP Compare to Other Free Zones in Sharjah and the UAE?
SRTIP occupies a distinct niche in the UAE free zone landscape. While many free zones serve as general commercial hubs, SRTIP is purpose-built for businesses in technology, research, innovation, and sustainability. Here is how it compares on key dimensions:
| Factor | SRTIP | General Sharjah Free Zones | Dubai Tech Free Zones |
| Licence cost (entry) | From AED 5,500 | From AED 5,750 to AED 15,000+ | Typically AED 15,000 to AED 30,000+ |
| Sector focus | R&D, tech, sustainability, manufacturing | General commercial and trading | Tech, fintech, media |
| Prototyping facility | Yes SoiLab |
Not typically included | Varies by free zone |
| Accelerator programme | Yes SAIA |
Rarely | Some e.g. Dubai Future Accelerators |
| Angel investor network | Yes SBAN |
Not typically included | Varies |
| University proximity | Adjacent to University City | Limited | Varies |
| Setup time | 7 to 10 working days | 5 to 15 working days | 7 to 15 working days |
| Minimum share capital | None | Varies; often none | Varies; often none |
For businesses that require a UAE trade licence at a low cost and do not need access to an innovation ecosystem, a general Sharjah free zone may be sufficient. However, for technology founders, R&D companies, sustainability businesses, and startups seeking accelerator support, SRTIP’s additional resources represent a compelling value proposition that goes well beyond the licence itself.
Tips for Setting Up in SRTIP |
1. Start with the Zero Visa Package if you are testing the UAE market. At AED 5,500 it gives you a legitimate UAE licence and registered address without committing to visa costs. You can upgrade your package later once your operations are established. |
2. Apply for the SAIA accelerator early. Cohorts are time-limited and competitive. If your business is tech-based and less than five years old, registering in SRTIP and applying to SAIA in the same cycle can fast-track both your licence and your access to funding networks. |
3. Use SoiLab before investing in your own equipment. The prototyping centre is available to SRTIP businesses and covers woodworking, metalwork, laser cutting, 3D printing, and electronics. For hardware startups, using SoiLab during the development phase can save significant capital. |
4. Check your tax position before registration. If you intend to conduct transactions with UAE mainland customers, review whether your business qualifies as a Free Zone Person under the Federal Tax Authority’s guidance (Federal Decree-Law No. 47 of 2022) to ensure you retain the 0% rate on qualifying income. |
5. Book venue space in advance for launch events. SRTIP’s venues (including The Colosseum for up to 500 guests) are available to registered businesses, but popular dates fill up quickly. Planning your product launch or investor event at the same time as your licence application saves time. |
Ready to Set Up Your Company in SRTIP Free Zone?
Our team handles the full process from licence application to visa processing.
Get Expert Help with Your SRTIP Business Setup
Ready to set up your company in SRTIP?
BusinessSetupHQ has helped hundreds of founders, SMEs, and corporate clients establish businesses across UAE free zones and mainland jurisdictions. Our team has over 22 years of combined experience navigating UAE company formation, visa processing, and regulatory compliance.
We handle the entire SRTIP setup process on your behalf: from choosing the right package and preparing your documents, to submitting your application and securing your visas.
Book a free consultation at businesssetuphq.com and get your SRTIP company set up in 7 to 10 working days.
Our Recent blogs
Testimonials:
Frequently Asked Questions About Business Setup in SRTIP
The entry-level licence package (Zero Visa Package) costs AED 5,500 (approx. USD 1,498) and includes a trade licence, registered business address, and up to five business activities. The One Visa Package costs AED 13,990 and the Two Visa Package costs AED 17,795. If you require a physical office, additional costs apply depending on the office type chosen.
Yes. SRTIP is a UAE free zone, which means foreign nationals can own 100% of their company without any requirement for a local UAE partner or sponsor. There is no minimum share capital requirement.
According to SRTI Park’s official guidance, the process takes 7 to 10 working days from application submission to licence issuance. The entire process is handled digitally via SRTIP’s online portal, with no requirement for in-person visits.
SRTIP supports over 1,500 approved business activities. The free zone is particularly focused on technology, advanced manufacturing, healthcare, sustainability, renewable energy, water management, digital services, logistics, and R&D. Up to five activities can be included on a single licence at no additional cost.
Yes. SRTIP operates three dedicated innovation support programmes: the SAIA Accelerator (providing funding, mentorship, and market access), SoiLab (a prototyping and R&D facility with five specialist workshops), and SBAN, the Sharjah Business Angels Network (connecting startups with angel investors). These are not typically found in general-purpose UAE free zones and represent a significant added benefit for innovation-led businesses.
No. SRTIP does not impose a minimum share capital requirement for most business activities. This reduces the upfront financial commitment compared to some other UAE jurisdictions.
The number of visas depends on your package and office type. The Zero Visa Package includes no visas. The One Visa Package includes one residency visa and the Two Visa Package includes two. The SME Office allows up to eight visas, and the Ecosystem Office provides 10 or more. Additional visas can typically be added at an incremental cost.
Companies in SRTIP that qualify as Free Zone Persons under Federal Decree-Law No. 47 of 2022 (the UAE Corporate Tax Law) are eligible for a 0% corporate tax rate on qualifying income. Income that does not qualify, or profits above AED 375,000 derived from non-qualifying activities, is subject to the standard 9% corporate tax rate. Businesses should seek professional tax advice to confirm their qualifying status.
Yes. SRTIP’s incorporation process is fully digital. Documents are submitted through the official online portal, and there is no requirement for shareholders or directors to be physically present in Sharjah at any stage of the application process.
To make the most out of setting up a business in SRTIP, book a call now.
We will take you through the process and help you execute the same.
