Free Zone Guide

SRTIP (Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park)

A Free Zone Built Around Real Research Infrastructure, Not Just Licensing

In short: SRTIP, established in 2016 by royal decree, brings government, academia and industry together next to University City of Sharjah, with 22+ university partnerships and genuine prototyping infrastructure through SoiLab. Licences start from around AED 5,500 with no paid-up capital requirement, and eligible tech companies gain access to the Sharjah Advanced Industry Accelerator and Sharjah Business Angels Network, a real step beyond standard free zone licensing.

INCHUB LICENSED CORPORATE SERVICE PROVIDER
IncHub Trade Licence

IncHub Corporate Services Providers LLC is a duly licensed business operating in the United Arab Emirates, authorised to provide corporate and business setup consultancy services in accordance with its trade licence. The trade licence serves as official proof of the company’s legal registration and authorised business activities, demonstrating that IncHub operates as a licensed corporate service provider in the UAE.

Licence No.
1017774
Issue Date
28/12/2021
Valid Through
27/12/2026
Zone Overview

What Is SRTIP?

SRTIP, the Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park, was established in 2016 by royal decree of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah, as an initiative of American University of Sharjah Enterprises. It was built on what its founders call a Triple Helix model, bringing government, academia and industry together under one community. Located next to University City of Sharjah, SRTIP has direct proximity to more than 20 higher education institutions and over 22 university partnerships.

That academic integration is SRTIP’s genuine differentiator. Rather than simply issuing licences, SRTIP runs SoiLab, an in-house prototyping hub with CNC routers, laser cutters, 3D printers and dedicated workshops. Its Sharjah Advanced Industry Accelerator (SAIA) connects eligible tech companies with funding, mentorship and the Sharjah Business Angels Network. It also maintains real-world testing zones for autonomous vehicles and solar technology, infrastructure that a standard commercial free zone simply does not offer.

Ideal Profiles

Who Is SRTIP For?

R&D-focused startups and companies working in advanced manufacturing, smart technology, or sustainability

Founders who want active prototyping facilities, including CNC, laser cutting and 3D printing, rather than just an office address

Tech companies seeking accelerator support, mentorship and investor access through SAIA and the Sharjah Business Angels Network

Businesses wanting to commercialise academic research through SRTIP’s direct university partnerships

Companies testing autonomous vehicle or solar technology, supported by SRTIP’s dedicated testing zones

It is a less natural fit for a generic trading or consultancy business with no genuine technology, research or innovation angle, since SRTIP’s infrastructure and community are built specifically around that mission.
Sector Profile

What SRTIP Is Famous For: Sector Profile and Core Commercial Case

Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park is famous as the UAE’s only free zone dedicated exclusively to R&D and innovation, co-located with the University of Sharjah campus. Its tenant base includes university spinoffs, AI and data science research firms, government R&D initiative entities, advanced materials companies and technology innovators who specifically need academic collaboration access and the Sharjah government’s R&D credibility signal that commercial technology free zones cannot provide.

The core commercial problem it solves: SRTIP solves the research-commercialisation problem for academic technology ventures. A University of Sharjah spinoff or a government-funded research programme needs a licensed entity to commercialise its IP, hire researchers and receive grant funding, but it also needs to stay physically and institutionally connected to the university campus for equipment access, academic credibility and research collaboration. Locating in a standard commercial free zone can sever that university link. SRTIP’s campus integration with the University of Sharjah keeps the research company inside the academic community while giving it commercial entity status, the SoiLab open innovation lab, the SAIA accelerator’s investor network and Sharjah government research grant eligibility, a combination that no other UAE free zone provides.
University of Sharjah research spinoffs and technology commercialisation ventures
Artificial intelligence and data science research companies
Advanced materials and nanotechnology businesses
Biotech and pharmaceutical research operations
Environmental technology and clean energy R&D companies
Robotics, autonomous systems and drone technology developers
Government-funded R&D programme entities
Innovation businesses with accelerator connections through the SAIA programme
Who is actually registered here: University of Sharjah spinoffs and technology commercialisation ventures, artificial intelligence and data science research firms, government R&D programme entities, advanced materials and nanotechnology companies, biotechnology and healthcare innovation businesses, environmental technology and clean energy R&D companies, robotics and autonomous systems developers, and professional services firms such as IP attorneys, grant advisers and technology transfer officers serving the innovation programme.
Designated Zone for VAT purposes: No. SRTIP is not classified as a Designated Zone under UAE VAT law (Cabinet Decision No. 59). Supplies of goods and services within SRTIP are subject to standard UAE VAT rules. The zone’s tax advantages come through corporate tax treatment as a Qualifying Free Zone Person, where qualifying income may be subject to a 0% rate, and through 100% foreign ownership rights. Businesses trading goods in SRTIP must charge and account for VAT on applicable domestic supplies in the same way as mainland UAE businesses.
Structures & Requirements

License Types and Company Structures

Licensing

License Types Available at SRTIP

Commercial LicenceCovers import, export, re-export, distribution and storage of a broad range of products.
Trading LicenceFor import and export-focused trading activities.
Services / Consultancy LicencePermits the holder to carry out the services specified on the licence, with a wide range of professional and technical service activities allowed unless restricted federally or locally.
E-Commerce LicenceFor online retail and digital sales.
SRTIP supports more than 1,500 approved business activities, with a single licence able to cover multiple activities including trading, services and consultancy. This provides useful flexibility for an early-stage tech company that has not fully settled on a single revenue model.
Legal Structures

Company Structures at SRTIP

Free Zone Establishment (FZE)A single shareholder, individual or corporate.
Free Zone Company (FZCO / FSC)Multiple shareholders, with each able to determine their own share distribution.
Branch of a Foreign CompanyAn extension of an overseas business, operating under the parent company’s name and legal structure.
SRTIP does not require paid-up share capital, and no No Objection Certificate (NOC) is needed from a current employer to obtain an SRTIP licence. These are genuine simplifications relative to many other UAE free zones.
Setup Costs

Setup Costs

PackageTypical Cost (AED)
Innovators Package (zero visa)From approx. 5,500
Standard licence packagesApprox. 12,000 and up, activity and visa dependent
Visa-inclusive packages1 to 10 visas, scaling with licence type and office
Formation Guide

How to Set Up a Company in SRTIP

  1. Select licence type

    1 Business Day

    Select your licence type (Commercial, Trading, Services/Consultancy, or E-Commerce) and business activities from SRTIP’s 1,500+ approved list.

  2. Choose legal structure

    1 Business Day

    Choose your legal structure (FZE, FZCO, or Branch of a Foreign Company).

  3. Submit application

    1 – 2 Business Days

    Submit your application and supporting documents; no NOC from a current employer is required.

  4. Select facility

    1 – 2 Business Days

    Select your facility, with a lease agreement bundled into the setup process.

  5. Pay fees

    Same Day – 1 Business Day

    Pay registration and licence fees.

  6. Receive trade licence

    7 – 10 Business Days

    Receive your trade licence, with the full digital setup process typically taking 7 to 10 working days.

  7. Apply for visas

    7 – 10 Business Days

    Apply for UAE residency visas under your licence and office quota, including the in-person medical test and Emirates ID biometric appointment.

  8. Open bank account

    5 – 10 Business Days

    Open a corporate bank account, a separate process from licensing.

Commercial Advantages

Key Benefits of Setting Up in SRTIP

The only UAE free zone dedicated exclusively to R&D and innovation

SRTIP’s sector mandate is unique in the UAE. No other free zone is structured entirely around research, technology development and innovation, giving R&D businesses a home that signals that specialisation to government partners and academic collaborators.

University of Sharjah campus integration

SRTIP’s co-location with the University of Sharjah campus creates direct access to academic talent, joint research partnerships and student-to-business pipeline opportunities that technology parks in isolation cannot offer.

SoiLab open innovation lab and SAIA accelerator access

SRTIP’s SoiLab provides shared open innovation laboratory infrastructure, while the SAIA accelerator programme provides qualifying startups with mentorship, funding access and programme connectivity that standard free zone registration does not include.

Sharjah government R&D support and credibility

SRTIP is a Sharjah government initiative, giving tenants a government credibility signal with Sharjah and UAE government research grant programmes that commercial free zones do not provide.

IP-protective regulatory environment for research businesses

SRTIP’s profile and activity framework are designed around businesses whose primary commercial asset is intellectual property, making IP protection a built-in consideration rather than an afterthought.

Suitability Check

When SRTIP May Not Be the Right Fit

If your technology company is a commercial software or services business without a genuine R&D or innovation component, Dubai Silicon Oasis or Dubai Internet City offer technology-sector addresses with stronger commercial clusters.
If you need the lowest possible entry cost for a technology consultancy or freelance business without R&D requirements, SHAMS or IFZA may offer lower-cost options where an innovation-zone address adds no commercial value.
If your research requires large-scale laboratory or manufacturing facilities beyond what SoiLab provides, Dubai Science Park’s LEED-certified laboratories or Dubai Industrial City’s manufacturing infrastructure may better serve your facility requirements.
If your business has no genuine R&D, technology innovation or research component, SRTIP’s academic and government research focus offers no advantage over a lower-cost generalist free zone.
IncHub compares SRTIP against DSO, SHAMS and IFZA before recommending it. SRTIP is strongest when R&D credibility, University of Sharjah collaboration and government research grant access are genuine business requirements.
Free Zone Comparison

SRTIP vs DSO vs SHAMS vs IFZA

SRTIP, Dubai Silicon Oasis, SHAMS and IFZA serve overlapping technology and services models in different ways. IncHub compares each one so you choose the authority that matches what your business actually needs, not just the most recognisable name.

Factor SRTIP DSO SHAMS IFZA
Core Focus R&D, innovation, academic commercialisation Tech startups, software, commercial tech cluster Media, creative, low-cost general business Broad SME licensing, services, e-commerce
Location University City of Sharjah Dubai Silicon Oasis, Dubai Al Messaned, Sharjah Dubai (IFZA Business Park / DSO ecosystem)
R&D / Innovation Infrastructure SoiLab, SAIA, testing zones Startup campus (DTEC) Licensing focus Limited R&D facilities
University / Grant Access 22+ university partnerships Tech ecosystem networking Limited Limited
Entry-Level Cost From approx. AED 5,500 From approx. AED 11,995 From approx. AED 5,750 Activity dependent
Setup Time 7–10 working days Typically 5–10 working days 2–5 working days, remote Fast remote licensing
Ideal Company Types University spinoffs, R&D labs, deep-tech innovators Commercial software, startups, tech services Freelancers, lean creative & cost-sensitive setups SMEs wanting broad, low-friction licensing

IncHub holds direct relationships across the UAE’s free zones, helping you choose the one that best fits your sector and regulatory needs, not just the one with the strongest brand.

Ongoing Requirements

Compliance and Ongoing Obligations

Standard UAE federal compliance obligations that apply to all free zone companies, including corporate tax, VAT, UBO, accounting, licence renewal, visa renewal and FTA amendments, are documented in full in IncHub’s UAE Free Zone Compliance Guide. The SRTIP-specific obligations that differ between zones are listed below.

Annual Audit

SRTIP companies should confirm the current annual audit requirement at setup. Research and innovation businesses with government grants or institutional funding may face additional financial reporting requirements from their funding bodies alongside the standard zone compliance calendar.

Economic Substance Regulations (ESR)

Companies carrying out a relevant activity, including holding, distribution and service centre, intellectual property, headquarters, shipping, fund management, banking, insurance, lease-finance and high-risk IP activities, must file annual ESR notifications and, where applicable, full ESR reports with the FTA. First-violation penalties are AED 50,000, rising to AED 400,000 on repetition.

Research Ethics and IP Compliance

Research and innovation businesses at SRTIP undertaking human subjects research, clinical data collection or pharmaceutical testing must maintain compliance with UAE research ethics regulations. IP registration with the UAE Ministry of Economy should be completed promptly for commercially valuable research output to protect patent, design and copyright rights.

Work with IncHub

How IncHub Can Help You Set Up in SRTIP

IncHub supports R&D, technology and innovation businesses through the SRTIP setup process, advising on the SRTIP vs DSO vs SHAMS suitability check for tech companies deciding between innovation-zone credibility and cost, coordinating research ethics and IP filing compliance, and providing guidance on access to the SAIA accelerator and SoiLab.

Our services for SRTIP company formation include:

  • Free zone suitability assessment comparing SRTIP against DSO, SHAMS and IFZA for your R&D, technology or innovation activity.
  • Licence type and legal structure selection with SRTIP authority coordination.
  • SAIA accelerator and SoiLab open innovation lab access guidance for qualifying businesses.
  • Research ethics compliance advisory and IP registration strategy for commercially valuable research outputs.
  • Investor and employee visa processing for research professionals and academic staff.
  • Corporate bank account introduction with UAE banks experienced in technology and research sector onboarding.
  • ESR notification, annual audit coordination and SRTIP compliance calendar management.
  • UBO maintenance, VAT registration and FTA amendment management.
Client Testimonials

What Our Clients Say

Watch how IncHub helped entrepreneurs and international businesses establish their companies in Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park through our authorised Professional Partner network.

Video Stories
Google Reviews 1 / 20
L
L S R Holiday Homes L.L.C
3 weeks ago

Visa renewal can often feel complicated due to the multiple steps involved. However, my experience with IncHub was very smooth. They planned the process in advance, guided me at every stage, and ensured everything was completed on time. What I liked most was that I didn’t have to follow up everything was managed efficiently by their team.

Google Verified Review
D
DigitalX Tech – FZCO
1 month ago

Setting up my free zone company was not straightforward, especially when it came to choosing the right jurisdiction for my business model. Making the wrong decision could have resulted in unnecessary time and cost. IncHub provided clear and practical guidance, helping me select the most suitable free zone based on my activities.

Google Verified Review
C
Cosmium IT – FZCO
2 months ago

Setting up a company in Dubai can get confusing, especially with so many free zones. I wasn’t sure what would suit my business, but IncHub made it simple. They guided me clearly, handled everything, and kept me updated throughout. The whole process felt very smooth. Definitely recommend speaking to them before you get started.

Google Verified Review
B
BLUEDCM FZE
1 month ago

Setting up my free zone company through IncHub was seamless from start to finish. Their team handled everything — trade licence, immigration card, and office registration — within the promised timeline. No surprises on costs. If you’re serious about establishing in the UAE, IncHub is who you call first.

Google Verified Review
A
ABI Quality Goods Wholesalers Co. L.L.C
2 weeks ago

Most consultants only react when you approach them, but Inchub is different. They track your renewal timelines and remind you in advance. The execution was smooth, and everything was done exactly when it should be. If you want it done right the first time, Inchub is the way to go.

Google Verified Review
O
Optimity L.L.C
1 month ago

I had a very positive experience with Inchub for my license renewal. What stood out the most was their follow-up system — I was reminded well before the expiry date, which gave enough time to plan everything properly. The team handled the entire process efficiently, and the renewal was completed without delays.

Google Verified Review
U
Univex L.L.C-FZ
3 months ago

Inchub handled the entire business setup process smoothly — everything was clearly explained, and the execution was efficient from start to finish. They have also assisted and guided us when there were AML compliance notifications from the authority. Overall, a reliable partner for end-to-end corporate services.

Google Verified Review
E
Ecom Vacation Homes Rental L.L.C
1 month ago

We had a bit of a challenge when it came to opening the labor file and processing new visas. There were a few complications along the way. That’s where Inchub really stepped in. Their team handled the entire process clearly and kept us updated throughout without us having to follow up constantly. Very reliable team.

Google Verified Review
C
CMAR Management FZE
3 months ago

Our experience with Inchub has genuinely exceeded expectations. From the very beginning, the team has been extremely professional, approachable, and proactive. They’ve supported us across multiple areas — including corporate services, corporate tax filing, and visa renewals — all managed in a structured manner.

Google Verified Review
T
Toyo Mea L.L.C-FZ
2 months ago

We worked with Inchub on a share amendment, which was quite complex. Their team guided us through each step, managed the process efficiently, and ensured everything was handled correctly despite the challenges. They also handle our accounting and VAT filing smoothly. A reliable and professional team.

Google Verified Review
N
Nicube International FZCO
4 months ago

We’ve been working with Inchub across multiple areas. They initially helped us with setting up both our offshore and free zone company, guiding us clearly. Since then, they’ve assisted us with annual renewals on time, and they manage our accounting and VAT filings efficiently. A highly dependable partner.

Google Verified Review
W
Well Mate L.L.C-FZ
5 months ago

I’ve been working with Inchub for several years, and the experience has been consistently positive. Their services are reliable and efficient. They’ve supported me across multiple areas — from managing trade license renewals to assisting with business bank account opening. Having everything under one team saved a lot of effort.

Google Verified Review
T
Telora Global L.L.C – FZ
2 months ago

Managing compliance alongside running a business can get overwhelming. Inchub takes care of our accounting, VAT, CT filings, and license renewal, which has saved us a lot of time and effort. Everything is handled efficiently and professionally. IncHub operates across every discipline and maintains high quality.

Google Verified Review
G
Gaia Resources DMCC
2 months ago

We’ve been working with Inchub for our ongoing compliance and business support. They handle everything from maintaining our company’s good standing to managing renewals on time, along with accounting and VAT filings. A very smooth experience, and they are definitely a reliable partner.

Google Verified Review
N
Nextgen Brokers FZE
3 months ago

We have engaged Inchub for ongoing compliance support. They handle our company’s good standing, ensure renewals are completed on time, and manage accounting and VAT filings efficiently. The team is proactive, well-organized, and keeps everything on track without the need for constant follow-ups.

Google Verified Review
M
Mw Holding Group Ltd
4 months ago

We worked with Inchub for setting up our offshore holding company. They facilitated the entire process smoothly, including the company formation and opening the corporate bank account. They also manage our accounting and bookkeeping. It’s helpful to have one team handling both setup and ongoing requirements.

Google Verified Review
J
Jannali Foundation
3 months ago

We engaged Inchub for setting up our RAK ICC foundation. They supported us throughout the entire formation process, including documentation, and guided us at every step. They also assisted with opening the bank account, which was handled smoothly. The team was very organized and efficient.

Google Verified Review
D
Drops By Nada Portal
1 month ago

We worked with Inchub for both our license renewal and visa renewal. The entire process was handled very smoothly and efficiently from start to finish. Everything was completed right on time without any complications. Their structured approach and clear communication make them very easy to work with.

Google Verified Review
P
Peopex LLC
5 months ago

Setting up a company in the UAE can feel complex. With Inchub, the entire process was handled seamlessly. They took care of everything — from the trade license and immigration card to visa application and even opening the company bank account. The team managed the entire process efficiently.

Google Verified Review
A
Aube International Commercial Brokers
4 weeks ago

We’ve been working with Inchub since day one for license renewals, accounting and bookkeeping, and visa processing. The experience has been very smooth. One thing that stands out is how responsive their team is. Whenever we need support, they’re quick to respond and guide us clearly.

Google Verified Review
Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to set up a company in SRTIP?

The Innovators Package, a zero-visa option, starts from around AED 5,500 for the first year. Standard licence packages with visa allocation typically start from around AED 12,000 and scale with activity, visa count and office space. For an accurate SRTIP free zone license cost, request a quotation based on your business activity and setup requirements.

What is SoiLab?

SRTIP’s in-house innovation and prototyping hub, the Sharjah Open Innovation Lab, is equipped with dedicated workshops including CNC routers, laser cutters and 3D printers for technical prototyping.

What is the Sharjah Advanced Industry Accelerator (SAIA)?

A structured programme run through SRTIP that provides eligible tech companies with funding, mentorship and access to investors and industry partners within the SRTIP community.

Do I need a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to get an SRTIP licence?

No. SRTIP does not require an NOC from a current employer to obtain a free zone licence, simplifying the process for individual founders who are also employed elsewhere.

Is there a minimum share capital requirement at SRTIP?

No. SRTIP does not require paid-up share capital, making it accessible for early-stage founders and small businesses.

How long does SRTIP company setup take?

The full digital setup process typically takes 7 to 10 working days. The timeline can vary depending on document readiness, activity approval and facility requirements.

Start Your Setup

Ready to set up your SRTIP company?

www.inchub.ae | Dubai, UAE