Night view of Dubai Marina skyline with illuminated buildings and waterfront, representing business growth and opportunities in Hamriyah Free Zone.

Hamriyah Free Zone (HFZA)

The Hamriyah Free Zone Authority (HFZA) in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, was set up by Emiri Decree No. 6 in 1995. It has since grown to become one of the largest industrial free zones in the country, covering more than 30 million square meters. Hamriyah Free Zone Authority (HFZA) is strategically located near Hamriyah Port, with direct access to both the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. It supports over 6,500 companies from more than 160 countries. The zone has become a center for important industries like petrochemicals, manufacturing, trading, and logistics because it has modern infrastructure, low-cost solutions, and is close to major international shipping routes. HFZA is still bringing in global investment and business as a key player in Sharjah’s industrial and economic growth.

Hamriyah Free Zone Authority (HAFZA) has a lively and business-friendly atmosphere with features that help both big and small businesses. Investors can own 100% of a business, get all of their money and profits back, pay no income or corporate taxes, and not have to pay import or export duties. The zone has everything you need, like industrial plots, ready-to-use warehouses, executive office spaces, and basic on-site services like housing for workers, medical care, and security around the clock. HFZA also has a simple process for starting a business that can be done in less than an hour, flexible visa quotas, and access to more than 300 online services. This makes it a great place for businesses that want to run their operations efficiently and grow in the UAE.

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Industrial Focus

Ideal for manufacturing and petrochemicals.

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100% Ownership

Full foreign ownership.

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Tax Exemptions

0% corporate and personal tax; no customs duties, subject to conditions specified under corporate tax.

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Cost-Effective

Affordable land leases and setup costs.

How many Freezones?

As of 2025, the UAE incorporates around 67 Free Zones across its seven emirates: Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, and Umm Al Quwain. This number continues to grow as new zones are established to meet the demands of emerging industries. Each Free Zone targets specific business activities, making it imperative for investors to choose the right zone according to their business objectives. 

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How to set up in a Hamriyah Free Zone ?

Here’s a simplified breakdown of the company setup process in the UAE.
Follow these six essential steps to get your business up and running smoothly.

Define business activity

Step 1

To start the company setup process, you need to choose your business activity. This could be commercial (trading), professional (services), industrial, tourism, or manufacturing. The selected activity must be approved by the Department of Economic Development (DED).

Reserve trade name

Step 2

Once the business activity is finalized, submit three proposed trade names to the DED for approval. Make sure the names follow the legal guidelines—avoid religious or political references, restricted words, or any previously registered names.

Initial approval

Step 3

Apply for the DED’s initial approval, also known as the No Objection Certificate (NOC). This requires submitting the proposed trade name and activity along with the necessary documentation for review.

Final license issuance

Step 4

After receiving initial approval, submit the final set of documents to the DED. This includes the signed Memorandum of Association (MOA) or Local Service Agent (LSA) agreement, tenancy contract (Ejari), and any additional approvals if required. Pay the license fee to get your trade license issued.

Immigration & labour setup

Step 5

Register your company with the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) and the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). This step allows you to apply for partner visas and hire employees legally.

Open corporate bank account

Step 6

Finally, submit your trade license, MOA, and passport copies to your preferred bank in the UAE. This enables you to open a corporate bank account and start operating your business officially.

BYB is your strategic business growth partner

Empowering Entrepreneurs to Thrive in the UAE & Beyond

End-to-end business setup

From company formation to operational readiness — we handle it all under one roof.

Transparent, value-driven pricing

No hidden costs. Just clear, cost-effective packages tailored for your business goals.

Proven client satisfaction

Trusted by startups, SMEs, and corporates with a high client retention rate.

Dedicated business advisors

Expert consultants offering personalized guidance at every step.

Regulatory expertise

In-depth knowledge of UAE compliance, licensing, and legal frameworks.

Global-local network access

Unlock regional and international opportunities through our strong ecosystem.

Types of companies formation in Hamriyah Free Zone

Free Zones in UAE offer various options for company formation, depending on the requirement and structure of ownership. The main types are: 

freezone establishment

Freezone Establishment (FZE)

freezone company

Freezone Company (FZCO/FZ LLC)

branch

Branch of an Existing Company

subsidiary

Subsidiary Company

joint venture

Joint Venture

Documentation required – all business types

Manage all your social channels, ensure customer supremacy engagement, track your performance and more—all from a single platform

Activity list for Hamriyah Free Zone (HFZA)

HFZA allows a wide range of business activities, particularly focused on high-growth, globally relevant sectors. Some of the major permitted activities include:

Industrial & manufacturing

Marine services

Oil & gas

Steel fabrication

Construction materials

Warehousing & distribution

Packaging & repackaging

Import & export

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Frequently Asked Questions

The Hamriyah Free Zone has three main types of business licenses: commercial, service, and industrial. 

The area has a lot of important services, like supermarkets, restaurants, a gym, and branches of major banks. There are also typing centers, Emirates Post, and currency exchange services on site. 

Freezones are ideal for businesses interested in international markets or startups seeking tax exemptions and less compliance. 

Setting up a business is very quick; licenses are usually given out within an hour of receiving all the necessary paperwork. 

Yes, the E-Office and Hamriyah Business Centre (HBC) packages offer virtual office solutions for businesses that want to have flexible office space. 

No, you can’t buy any of the facilities in Hamriyah Free Zone; you can only rent them. 

Yes, investors can set up branches or subsidiaries in the Hamriyah Free Zone. 

No, businesses with Hamriyah Free Zone licenses must work from inside the Free Zone. 

Yes, you can be a partner in businesses inside and outside the Free Zone. Please get in touch with our support team if you need more help. 

No, you don’t need a local partner. Foreign investors can own all of their business. 

No, businesses and people who work in the Free Zone do not have to pay corporate or income taxes. 

No, there are no limits on importing or exporting goods as long as the activities follow the rules of the license that was given.

Yes, Hamriyah companies can qualify for a 0% corporate tax rate as QFZPs under Cabinet Decision No. 55 of 2023 and Ministerial Decision No. 139 of 2023.

Requirements include: 

Being a juridical person registered in Hamriyah. 

  • Maintaining sufficient substance in the free zone. 
  • Earning qualifying income from activities like manufacturing or trading in a Designated Zone. 
  • Complying with transfer pricing rules and keeping non-qualifying revenue below the de-minimis limit (5% of total revenue or AED 5 million). 
  • Not electing the 9% corporate tax rate. 
    Hamriyah’s Designated Zone status supports tax-free income for qualifying activities. 

Yes, most companies in the Hamriyah Free Zone must submit audited financial statements to comply with UAE tax and free zone regulations, particularly as a Designated Zone for VAT purposes. These are required for license renewal, and non-compliance may lead to fines or license issues.

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BYB Global

BYB (Build Your Business) is a specialized firm focused on building the foundation for businesses to operate globally. We provide clear guidance and practical support to individuals and companies on how to properly establish their business, follow all rules, and design its structure to begin work in different countries. Our deep knowledge includes how to stay compliant in various nations, selecting the best legal setup, and making smart choices about local business environments. We help get registrations, explain tax requirements, and put in place the basic systems for running an office. BYB is an essential partner for those starting international businesses, making sure they have a solid and rule-abiding base from the very beginning.

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