Business for Sale in Sharjah: How to Find and Buy a Running Business (2026)
Short answer: To find a running business for sale in Sharjah, search business-for-sale marketplaces such as BusinessFinder.me, brokers and local networks. Then verify the trade licence with the Sharjah Economic Development Department (SEDD), or with the free zone if the business is in one, and check that the tenancy contract is attested by Sharjah Municipality. Most current listings on BusinessFinder.me are in Dubai, so Sharjah buyers should also check the Sharjah listings page regularly and compare nearby Dubai opportunities.
Where can I find a business for sale in Sharjah?
- BusinessFinder.me: check the Sharjah location page and the full businesses for sale category, which you can filter by location and price.
- Brokers who work in Sharjah and the northern emirates.
- Direct approaches to owners, landlords and suppliers in the area you want.
- A “wanted” ad: post an ad describing the type of business and the budget you want.
What types of businesses are sold in Sharjah?
Sharjah has a large residential population and a lot of industrial land, so the most common businesses for sale are:
- Groceries, baqalas and mini-markets (see baqala for sale)
- Cafeterias, restaurants and bakeries
- Ladies’ and gents’ salons (see ladies salon for sale)
- Laundries, tailoring and mobile shops
- Garages, workshops and spare parts shops in the industrial areas
- Trading companies and free zone licences
How is buying in Sharjah different from Dubai?
| Sharjah | Dubai | |
|---|---|---|
| Mainland licensing | Sharjah Economic Development Department (SEDD) | Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) |
| Tenancy contracts | Attested by Sharjah Municipality | Registered on Ejari |
| Free zones (examples) | SAIF Zone, Hamriyah Free Zone, Sharjah Media City (Shams) | JAFZA, DMCC, Dubai South and others |
| Typical rents | Often lower than comparable Dubai areas, depending on location | Often higher in prime and newer areas |
Federal rules apply in both emirates: UAE labour law through MOHRE, and VAT and corporate tax through the Federal Tax Authority.
What should I check before buying a business in Sharjah?
- A valid SEDD or free zone licence with the right activity, and the current owners
- The tenancy contract, its municipality attestation, the rent, the remaining term and the landlord’s consent to transfer
- Sector approvals (for example food safety or health) and whether they transfer to you
- Verified sales: POS reports, bank statements and VAT returns
- Staff contracts, visas and end-of-service gratuity owed
- Unpaid fines, utility bills (SEWA), supplier debts and cheques
- An itemised list of the equipment and stock included
How do I transfer a business in Sharjah?
- Agree the price and sign an MoU with the conditions and deadlines.
- Complete due diligence with an accountant and a lawyer.
- Get the landlord’s consent and a new or amended attested tenancy contract.
- Apply to SEDD (or the free zone) to change the licence ownership, or set up a new licence.
- Update approvals, utilities, staff visas and bank accounts.
- Pay the balance against signed transfer documents.
Our guide on how to buy a business in Dubai explains the due diligence in more detail, and most of it applies in Sharjah too. To compare marketplaces and brokers, read where to buy or sell a business in the UAE.
Should I buy in Sharjah or Dubai?
Sharjah can offer lower rents and a large residential customer base. Dubai has far more businesses listed for sale and a bigger mix of customers. If you live in Sharjah, buying close to home makes daily management easier. Compare the total cost (price plus rent) and the verified profit in both emirates before you decide.
What does a business for sale in Sharjah usually include?
Most small business sales in Sharjah are sold as a running business with a lease. Before you agree a price, get a written list of what is included:
- The trade licence, or a commitment to transfer it or help you apply for a new one
- The shop lease and any deposit held by the landlord
- Fit-out, furniture, equipment and signage
- Stock at cost on the handover day, counted together
- Staff who agree to stay, and their visa arrangements
- Phone numbers, social media accounts, delivery-app accounts and supplier contacts
Anything that isn’t written in the sale agreement may not be handed over, so put the full list in the MoU.
Key takeaways
- Sharjah mainland businesses are licensed by SEDD, and tenancy contracts are attested by Sharjah Municipality.
- Listings in Sharjah appear less often than Dubai ones, so check BusinessFinder.me regularly and post a wanted ad.
- Verify the licence, lease, approvals, sales and liabilities before paying.
- Transfer through SEDD or the free zone, with the landlord’s consent.
Frequently asked questions
Where can I find a running business for sale in Sharjah?
Check the Sharjah listings and the business-for-sale category on BusinessFinder.me, local brokers and your network. You can also post a wanted ad with your budget.
Who issues trade licences in Sharjah?
Mainland businesses in Sharjah are licensed by the Sharjah Economic Development Department (SEDD). Free zones such as SAIF Zone and Hamriyah license their own companies.
How are shop leases registered in Sharjah?
Tenancy contracts in Sharjah are attested by Sharjah Municipality. When you buy a business, you need the landlord’s consent and an updated attested contract.
Can a foreigner buy a business in Sharjah?
Yes. Foreign investors can own many mainland and free zone businesses. Confirm the ownership rules for your activity with SEDD or the free zone.
Can I sell my Sharjah business on BusinessFinder.me?
Yes. Post an ad with the price in AED, the location, photos and the key details, and buyers will contact you directly.
Last updated: 19 October 2026