Sharjah: The total number of business licenses issued and renewed in Sharjah during the first half of 2026 reached 38,169, marking a growth rate of 2% compared to the same period last year, according to a report issued by Sharjah Economic Development Department (SEDD).
According to Emirates News Agency, the SEDD report highlighted the developments and events experienced by the economic sectors in Sharjah, alongside the measures and efforts undertaken by the Department across all sectors and activities. The data revealed that 4,597 new licenses were issued, reflecting a growth rate of 5% for this period, while 33,572 licenses were renewed, showing a 2% growth compared to the previous year.
The report serves as a comprehensive tool for stakeholders in the economic sectors of the emirate, showcasing the significant results achieved. It underscores SEDD's commitment to fostering a balanced and sustainable economic performance and enhancing business continuity in several fields.
In terms of the distribution of issued licenses by type, commercial licenses numbered 2,514, followed by professional licenses at 1,407. Industrial licenses accounted for 276, Eitimad licenses for 233, and e-commerce licenses for 167.
Regarding renewed licenses in the first half of 2026, commercial licenses led with 21,619 renewals, followed by professional licenses with 9,479. Industrial licenses accounted for 1,854 renewals, Eitimad licenses for 413, and e-commerce licenses for 207, marking a growth rate of 52% compared to the first half of the previous year.
Geographically, the main center of the Department issued 2,156 licenses, followed by the Industrial Areas Branch with 1,492 licenses. The Central Region Branch issued 484 licenses, Khor Fakkan Branch 271, Kalba Branch 157, and Dibba Al Hisn Branch 37 licenses.
In terms of renewed licenses, the Industrial Areas branch led with 14,989, followed by the main center with 12,675. The Central Region branch recorded 3,279 renewals, Khor Fakkan branch 1,342, Kalba branch 1,051, and Dibba Al Hisn branch 236.
SEDD is dedicated to fostering a fair relationship between traders and consumers, engaging with consumers through various means to raise awareness and inform them of their rights. This effort led to 90,106 transactions in commercial control during the first half of 2026.
In commercial protection, SEDD recorded 12,429 complaints, with consumer protection complaints leading at 11,134, followed by 795 commercial fraud complaints and 500 service agent complaints.
Hamad Ali Abdulla Al Mahmoud, SEDD Chairman, stated that the economic indicators affirm the continued investment momentum and sustainable growth in Sharjah. He emphasized the Emirate's resilience and capacity for growth amidst geopolitical tensions and regional challenges, attributing success to economic diversification, infrastructure development, and ongoing projects.
Al Mahmoud reiterated Sharjah's commitment to strengthening its position as a key investment destination in the region through diversified economic policies, public-private sector partnerships, and continuous legislative and service development to stimulate the business environment.