Sharjah has taken a pioneering step by launching the world’s first trade license issued entirely through artificial intelligence (AI), allowing entrepreneurs and investors to complete the process in under five minutes. This revolutionary service was unveiled at the Sharjah Investment Forum (SIF 2024), attended by Sheikh Abdullah bin Salem bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah.
Fast-Track Trade Licensing with AI The AI-powered licensing system, initially available through the Sharjah Investor Services Centre (Saeed) and SPC Free Zone, drastically reduces the time needed to obtain a trade license. Investors can now complete the entire procedure in just minutes. The service is set to expand to other free zones across the emirate, making Sharjah the first investment promotion agency globally to adopt AI technology for this purpose.
This initiative underscores Sharjah’s commitment to fostering seamless cooperation between regional and global markets while revolutionizing how businesses are launched in the region. SPC Free Zone, an initiative by the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), is leading the charge by integrating AI-driven licensing, setting a new standard for the business environment.
Industry Leaders on the Impact of AI in Business
Mohamed Juma Al Musharrkh, CEO of Invest in Sharjah, emphasized, “This agreement marks a transformative leap in Sharjah’s already attractive investment environment, positioning the emirate ever more strongly as a leading global destination for future-focused, innovative, and sustainable investments. By integrating AI technology, we are redefining an investment-friendly infrastructure, ensuring Sharjah stays ahead in attracting local and international businesses.”
Naim Yazbeck, General Manager of Microsoft UAE, highlighted the broader implications of AI for the region, stating, “AI technology is revolutionizing the business landscape in Sharjah, enabling a more efficient and innovative environment. By leveraging AI, we are not only enhancing operational efficiencies but also fostering a culture of innovation that drives economic growth and attracts global investments.”
Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of the SBA, added, “This AI-powered license and similar innovation-first incentives introduced by Sharjah further enhance SPC Free Zone’s position as an integrated business hub setting global standards in business. These initiatives put publishers and entrepreneurs from various sectors at the heart of a dynamic, competitive, and trusted economic environment, while also fostering innovative solutions across free zones.”
A New Era for Business in Sharjah The AI-driven licensing system is set to boost the efficiency and flexibility of the business environment, enabling quicker establishment of new companies. This innovation will strengthen Sharjah’s position as a leading destination for foreign direct investment (FDI) and a hub for technology-driven sectors like agriculture, healthcare, and logistics.
Sharjah ranks fifth globally in FDI project growth and fourth in the Gulf region for startup ecosystems, making it a leader in integrating cutting-edge technology into its core economic sectors. The AI-powered trade license initiative aligns with Sharjah’s broader vision of economic diversification and sustainable growth, further solidifying its long-term development goals.
