Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF Zone)
Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF Zone) is a long-established, cost-competitive free zone located beside Sharjah International Airport. It is popular with trading, light manufacturing, logistics and service companies wanting fast licensing and air-cargo access. AOPA member firms support SAIF Zone companies with accounting, audit and UAE Corporate Tax.
Overview
Established in 1995, SAIF Zone was the first free zone located within an international airport in the UAE and one of the earliest ISO-certified free zones in the region. Sitting next to Sharjah International Airport and within easy reach of both Gulf coasts, it hosts thousands of companies from around the world, offering warehouses, land, offices and specialised facilities such as a jewellery park.
Who it suits
SAIF Zone suits importers and exporters, general and specialised traders, light manufacturers and assemblers, logistics and freight companies, aviation-related businesses and service providers. Its airport-side location and quick licensing make it especially attractive for businesses that depend on air cargo and fast turnaround.
Licences and activities
The free zone issues commercial (trading), industrial, service and general-trading licences, along with specialised categories covering areas such as aviation and oil and gas. Facility options range from flexi-desks and executive offices to warehouses and land plots, with visas available for staff and simplified customs procedures.
Setting up
Steps: (1) select your activities and licence type; (2) reserve the trade name; (3) choose a facility such as a flexi-desk, office or warehouse; (4) submit incorporation documents and KYC; (5) receive the licence, often issued quickly; (6) complete customs registration, visas and Emirates ID.
Accounting and audit requirements
SAIF Zone companies should maintain proper books and prepare financial statements; audited accounts are commonly required for renewal and banking. All entities must register for UAE Corporate Tax with the Federal Tax Authority and assess the 0% qualifying free-zone rate, plus VAT where turnover thresholds are met. AOPA member firms deliver SAIF Zone accounting, audit and Corporate Tax services.
Frequently asked questions
Why choose SAIF Zone?
SAIF Zone offers fast licensing, competitive costs and a location beside Sharjah International Airport with strong air-cargo links, making it popular with traders, light manufacturers and logistics firms.
What licences does SAIF Zone offer?
Commercial, industrial, service and general-trading licences, plus specialised categories such as aviation and oil and gas, with flexible office and warehouse options.
Is SAIF Zone good for trading companies?
Yes. Its airport-side location, customs facilities and range of warehouses and land plots make it well suited to import, export and distribution businesses.
Do SAIF Zone companies pay Corporate Tax?
They fall within the UAE Corporate Tax regime and may qualify for 0% on qualifying income where free-zone conditions are met, but must register with the Federal Tax Authority. AOPA member firms can advise.