Hamriyah Free Zone (HFZ) in Sharjah is one of the UAE’s fastest-growing and most strategically positioned free zones. Established in 1995, HFZ has evolved into a global hub for industries such as manufacturing, logistics, trading, maritime services, steel, oil & gas, and SMEs. With world-class infrastructure, investor-friendly regulations, and access to regional and global markets, the free zone continues to attract entrepreneurs and companies from over 160 countries.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Hamriyah Free Zone in 2025—its benefits, company types, license options, setup costs, and why it is a top choice for investors.
What Is Hamriyah Free Zone?
Hamriyah Free Zone is an economic free zone located in Sharjah, strategically positioned between the Middle East, Asia, and Africa. It covers over 30 million square meters and includes deep-water ports, inner harbors, warehouses, and industrial plots.
It offers three major industrial clusters:
Hamriyah SME Zone
Hamriyah Logistics Village
Hamriyah Industrial Zone
HFZ is especially popular among industries requiring large land areas, warehouses, and cost-effective licensing solutions.
Why Choose Hamriyah Free Zone? – Key Benefits
Hamriyah Free Zone is known for offering some of the best value-for-money packages in the UAE. Here are the core advantages:
1. 100% Foreign Ownership
Investors can own their businesses completely without needing a local partner.
2. Zero Corporate & Personal Tax
Companies enjoy a tax-free environment, making HFZ attractive for international investors.
3. Competitive Business Setup Costs
Compared to Dubai and Abu Dhabi, HFZ offers lower license and facility costs, ideal for startups and SMEs.
4. Strategic Location
Hamriyah Free Zone provides access to:
Sharjah’s port
Two international airports (Sharjah & Dubai)
Major GCC road networks
This makes it a logistic hub for import/export companies.
5. Wide Range of Facilities
HFZ offers:
Offices
Warehouses
Industrial land
Labor accommodation
Prebuilt factories
These options cater to companies of all sizes.
6. Quick & Easy Business Setup
Company formation can be completed in as little as 1–3 days, depending on the license type.
7. No Restrictions on Capital Repatriation
Investors can freely send profits and capital abroad.
8. Visa Eligibility
Businesses can apply for visas based on their office or facility size.
Types of Companies in Hamriyah Free Zone
Entrepreneurs can choose from three main legal structures depending on their requirements:
1. Free Zone Establishment (FZE)
Single shareholder (individual or corporate)
Ideal for startups or solo business owners
2. Free Zone Company (FZC)
2 to 5 shareholders
Suitable for joint ventures
3. Branch of a Local or Foreign Company
No share capital required
Perfect for companies looking to expand into the UAE
Business Licenses Offered in Hamriyah Free Zone
Hamriyah Free Zone offers multiple types of licenses to support different business activities:
1. Commercial License
For trading, import, export, and re-export activities.
2. Service License
For consultancy, IT services, marketing, media, and other professional activities.
3. Industrial License
For manufacturing, processing, and packaging companies.
4. General Trading License
Allows trading of a wide range of goods under one license.
5. E-Commerce License
- For online trading and digital businesses.
- This diverse license range makes HFZ suitable for a wide variety of industries.
- Top Industries Thriving in Hamriyah Free Zone
- HFZ is especially attractive for businesses in:
- Oil & Gas Trading
- Steel and Heavy Industry
- Construction Materials
- Logistics & Warehousing
- Shipbuilding and Marine Services
- Food Processing
- Plastic and Chemical Manufacturing
- E-Commerce & Trading
- The zone’s infrastructure is designed to support light, medium, and heavy industrial operations.
- Hamriyah Free Zone Business Setup Process
The setup process in HFZ is simple and quick. Here’s how it works:
Step 1: Choose Business Activity & License Type
- Decide whether you want a trading, service, or industrial license.
Step 2: Select Company Structure
- Choose FZE, FZC, or Branch.
Step 3: Submit Required Documents
- Common documents include:
- Passport copy
- Passport-sized photo
- Business plan (for industrial activities)
- Application forms
Step 4: Select Facility
- Choose between:
- Virtual office
- Flexi-desk
- Office space
- Warehouse
- Industrial land
- Step 5: Pay Fees
After payment, your license and company documents will be issued.
Step 6: Visa Processing (Optional)
Businesses can apply for investor and employee visas after establishment.
Cost of Setting Up a Business in Hamriyah Free Zone
Hamriyah Free Zone is known for being cost-effective, with packages starting at competitive rates depending on:
- License type
- Number of visa allocations
- Facility selected
- Typical cost components include:
- License fee
- Registration fee
- Facility rental
- Visa and immigration costs
This makes HFZ a great option for small businesses looking for low-cost UAE setup.
Why Investors Prefer Hamriyah Free Zone in 2025
HFZ continues to be a preferred business destination due to:
1. Fast-Growing Industrial Ecosystem
Large industrial spaces attract global manufacturers.
2. Business-Friendly Regulations
Minimal paperwork, simplified procedures, and digital government services.
3. Strategic Logistics Benefits
Its proximity to major airports, seaports, and highways makes it ideal for international traders.
4. Affordable Business Setup Options
HFZ is one of the most budget-friendly free zones in the UAE.
Is Hamriyah Free Zone Right for You?
Hamriyah Free Zone is an excellent choice if you are:
- A startup or SME looking for affordable setup
- A manufacturer needing industrial land
- A trader needing easy access to global markets
- A logistics company requiring warehouse facilities
- A foreign company expanding into the Middle East
Its flexibility, cost-efficiency, and investor-friendly environment make it a strong option for entrepreneurs in 2025.
Final Thoughts
Hamriyah Free Zone is one of the UAE’s most versatile and cost-effective free zones, offering robust infrastructure, strategic location advantages, and a supportive business environment. Whether you are launching a startup, expanding a manufacturing unit, or establishing a trading company, HFZ provides everything needed for business growth.