Here is a scenario for you to consider: searching for an optimal industrial zone in UAE, only to discover that all the possible locations are either too expensive or located at a great distance from your target customers. Do I see you nodding in understanding? Well, you’re not the only one who has struggled with such problems while seeking an industrial area to conduct operations in UAE, because there are more than 45,000 industrial and commercial enterprises registered in the Emirate of Sharjah as of 2024. As a result, it became possible to develop one of the most attractive regions for business in the country.
Here’s where our guide on “Industrial Area 6 Sharjah UAE” will come handy!
If you want to learn something more about the industrial zone 6 of Sharjah, including locating a suitable warehouse or establishing a manufacturing plant there, you’re going to find the necessary information in this guide.
Read Also: Mafraq Traffic Department
What Is Industrial Area 6 in Sharjah? (And Why Does It Matter)
IA6 (an abbreviation of “Industrial Area 6”) is one of well-established Sharjah industrial zones playing an integral part in Sharjah’s industrial belt.
That means IA6 is a commercial industrial zone that has been operating successfully and is characterized by well-developed facilities.
IA6 is part of a group of numbered industrial zones (IA1 to IA18) characterized by
developed road network:
This zone is regulated by Sharjah City Municipality and Sharjah Economic Development Department (SEDD).
IA6 is highly relevant in terms of recent law amendments introduced after 2021. Namely, the UAE commercial law was amended in such a way as to eliminate dependence of 100%-foreign owned companies on local sponsors to establish a mainland business. Below you will see the key facts about this zone.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
| Zone Type | Mainland Industrial Zone |
| Location | Central-western industrial belt, Sharjah |
| Regulatory Authority | SEDD + Sharjah City Municipality |
| Nearest Free Zone | SAIF Zone (~10 km) |
| Distance to Dubai | ~30–35 minutes via Emirates Road (E611) |
| Distance to Sharjah Centre | ~15 minutes |
| Primary Industries | Manufacturing, logistics, auto parts, food processing |
| Foreign Ownership | 100% permitted (post-2021) |
Industrial Area 6 is an industrial zone of Sharjah, located in its central-western industrial belt, accessible via Industrial Area Road and approximately 15 minutes away from Sharjah city center.
Location & Accessibility: How to Get to Industrial Area 6 Sharjah
IA6 is characterized by excellent location – situated at the heart of Sharjah’s industrial belt and featuring a developed transportation infrastructure, this zone ensures easy and fast access to Dubai and the rest of the UAE Northern Emirates.
The zone is located next to the Al Saja’a Industrial Area Road and directly connected to one of the UAE’s main highways – Emirates Road (E611).
So, your trip to/from this zone will be as follows:
- Shajrah City Center to IA6 – 15 minutes;
- Dubai (Deira area/Port Saeed area) to IA6 – 30-35 minutes;
- Dubai International Airport to IA6 – 25-30 minutes;
- Sharjah International Airport to IA6 – 20 minutes.
If your business uses heavy vehicles to deliver products to clients, you will definitely appreciate IA6’s broad multi-lane roads, which were designed specifically for accommodating trucks.
Public transport services operated by RTA (Roads & Transport Authority) operate along IA6’s roads, but most workers prefer traveling by cars or company cars.
What else?
It’s typical for industrial zones to form industrial complexes with nearby zones to benefit from the opportunities for future development.
- IA6 is one of them – this is how it looks:
- Industrial Area 5 & Industrial Area 7 to the northeast and southeast, respectively;
- Al Saja’a Industrial Area to the south;
- About 10 kilometers eastward is located Sharjah Airport Free Zone (SAIF Zone);
- Approximately 20-25 minutes drive east is the Hamriyah Free Zone.
Don’t forget that your website visitors might want to see the property map – that’s why it’s advisable to embed Google Maps widget on your page and/or include labeled static image – for better search engine optimization.
Coordinates: 25.372846342512735, 55.71498579025269 (central IA6)
What Businesses Operate in Industrial Area 6 Sharjah?
You will definitely notice a great variety of industries represented here during your visit to IA6 on weekdays. There are hundreds of industrial units in IA6, which can be classified as follows:
- auto spare parts traders and workshops – most popular businesses;
- building materials traders – tiles, marble, sanitary ware and other construction materials;
- light manufacturers – clothes, packaging, metal, plastics;
- food processing and storage facilities – due to the high demand in Northern Emirates;
- print media businesses – producing printed newspapers, magazines and books;
- warehouses – used by retailers, logistics providers, e-commerce businesses;
- electrical and electronic devices – catering to the construction sector and consumers;
- and some others.
It’s worth noting that sometimes there are retail shops located on the zone’s periphery – these are such facilities as furniture stores, tile stores and electrical appliances retail shops, which combine storage and sales functions.
Top Industries That Thrive Here (And Why)
Why do people choose IA6 rather than Sharjah’s famous free zones?
To begin with, there’s the question of market access – free zones offer only customs deferral services, whereas mainland offers unrestricted market access;
- secondly, you won’t have to deal with free zone distributors while conducting business in mainland zones.
- And finally, due to the 2021 amendment of the UAE Companies Law, it’s no longer required for foreign investors to have an Emirati partner in order to establish a mainland business.
- All this combined with convenient Sharjah location and accessibility to Dubai market, makes IA6 a perfect place for doing business.
- When it comes to light manufacturing activities, IA6 is one of the most optimal industrial destinations in the region.
Warehouses & Facilities for Rent in Industrial Area 6 Sharjah: What to Expect
There are many options for business operators wishing to open or relocate their business to this zone.
As for the diversity of available facilities, you will be pleasantly surprised – below is the list of the most common facilities in IA6 ranging from the smallest units to huge warehouses.
Unit Sizes:
- small units (500 sq ft+) – intended for traders of auto spare parts and some light manufacturers;
- medium units (2,000 sq ft to 10,000 sq ft) – for workshops and light manufacturers;
- large units (10,000+ sq ft) – for warehousing, distribution centers and factories;
- Typical Rental Prices (Estimates 2024-2025):
- older facilities – AED 15-25 per sq ft
- newer or fitted facilities – AED 25-40 per sq ft
- premium logistic units with dock levellers – AED 35-50 per sq ft
Please remember that rent prices may differ depending on condition of the facility. For more accurate rent price estimates, you should consult Property Finder or Bayut websites or contact a licensed real estate agent.
Basic Features Provided by Landlords:
- three-phase electricity supply;
- wide vehicle access with turnarounds for trucks;
- mezzanine offices built into the larger facilities;
- loading/unloading areas;
- 24/7 security;
- perimeter fencing;
- WC and staff room;
It should be noted that cold storages are available in this zone and nearby locations, but the number of units is limited.
IA6 landlords usually operate on annual lease agreement based on postdated cheques (two to four per year). In case you want to get 3 to 6-month lease term, it will be more expensive.
Comparative Analysis of IA6 and Other Industrial Zones in Sharjah
As you can see, each of these zones has its own distinctive features. However, unrestricted market access and lower operating costs make IA6 an optimal choice.
| Zone | Avg. Rent (AED/sq ft/yr) | Market Access | Ownership |
| Industrial Area 6 (Mainland) | AED 15–40 | Full UAE mainland | 100% foreign allowed |
| SAIF Zone | AED 20–45 | Free zone (customs benefits) | 100% foreign |
| Al Saja’a Industrial Area | AED 12–30 | Full UAE mainland | 100% foreign allowed |
| Hamriyah Free Zone | AED 18–38 | Free zone (port access) | 100% foreign |
How to Start Your Business in Industrial Area 6 Sharjah: Step-by-Step Guide
Here are the necessary steps for setting up your business in IA6:
Step 1: Decide on Your Legal Entity Form
You should consider one of the following business structures depending on your business type:
- Limited Liability Company (LLC)
- Sole Proprietorship
- Branch of a Foreign Company
Step 2: Acquire a Trade License
Contact SEDD website at sedd.ae or pay a visit to one of its licensing centers. Everything you will need to provide is a list of your business activities and a proposed trade name. After getting your approval document, proceed with the next step.
Step 3: Apply for Industrial License
Needed documents:
- copy of passports of all shareholders;
- UAE Emirates IDs for UAE residents;
- tenancy agreement in Sharjah (instead of Ejari);
- no objection certificate (NOC) from landlord;
- SEDD approval.
Processing time usually takes two to four weeks if you engage in standard manufacturing activities. Some activities may take more time if a Civil Defense approval is required.
Step 4: Lease a Facility and Obtain NOC from Landlord
Lease a facility (read more here).
After leasing a facility, you should obtain no objection certificate from your landlord to prove that he approved renting certain unit. Also, make sure your unit has been registered in Sharjah Municipality.
Additionally, ensure that your industrial license is compatible with use of this particular unit.
Step 5: Obtain Civil Defense & Municipality Approvals
In case you plan to engage in manufacturing, food processing and chemicals, you will need Civil Defense approval in order to commence your business.
If your fit-out involves any changes to the unit’s structure (such as installing air-conditioning system), you will have to obtain additional permits from the municipality for installing signs and fit-outs.
Set-Up Costs Indicators:
SEDD license fees – AED 10,000 to 25,000 (depending on the activity);
- security deposit on the warehouse lease – AED 500 to AED 1,000 per sq ft per year (approx. 5 to 10%);
- visa costs – AED 3,000-5,000 per visa;
- additional approvals, permits and certificates – AED 2,000 to 5,000
Mainland or Free Zone? What is More Advantageous for You?
Choose mainland (IA6) if:
- you’re selling your goods to UAE-based customers and need unrestricted UAE market access;
- you’re engaged in manufacturing and wish to avoid additional documentation;
- and don’t want to deal with more paperwork and bureaucracy involved in free zones.
Choose free zones if:
- your primary focus is re-export and international trade, or you need customs deferral.
- Living & Working Near Industrial Area 6 Sharjah: Facilities
- Running business in IA6 involves more than just renting a facility there – you will have to take into account the life of your workers.
Employees’ Living Facilities
Popular housing neighborhoods in close proximity to IA6 are Al Qasimia and Maysaloon – in these districts, you’ll be able to find a variety of affordable apartments.
Labor accommodation is also provided in and near IA6’s industrial belt – accommodation units are provided in separate buildings, consisting of rooms leased either individually or collectively. Monthly price ranges from AED 400-700 per room.
Another option is to provide accommodation for workers at your own industrial plot.
Daily Necessities
You can easily find supermarkets or hypermarkets in the area – such popular chains as Carrefour, Lulu, Spinneys are widely distributed here.
A number of banks’ branches operate in nearby areas – Emirates National Bank, First Gulf Bank, Mashreq and others.
There’s also a sufficient number of petrol stations on Industrial Area Road and adjacent roads.
IA6 boasts a significant community of blue-collar workers, so you will be able to find budget dining outlets serving Indian, Pakistani and Filipino cuisine.
Health Care
There is Al Qasimi Hospital – hospital providing various medical treatment services, as well as specialists, 5 km away from IA6;
there are also some private clinics, medical centers and pharmacies in nearby areas.
Schools for Expatriates’ Kids
CBSE schools, British curriculum and Pakistani schools are located within 15 minutes driving distance.
Pros & Cons of Choosing Industrial Area 6 Sharjah for Your Business
Any industrial zone has advantages and disadvantages – these aspects are subjective in nature.
Here’s a list of IA6’s strengths and weaknesses.
The Pros
- Good geographical location with convenient connections to major cities (Dubai, Ajman, Sharjah);
- Reasonably low rentals – significantly cheaper than in Dubai Industrial City or Jafza;
- Unrestricted access to the UAE market;
- 100% foreign ownership possibility – in accordance with the law enacted after 2021;
Well-developed facilities – roads, utilities and others developed decades ago and proved themselves efficient;
- Flexible regulations;
- Proximity to complementary businesses and potential partners;
Cons
- Congestion – traffic jams in peak hours on the Industrial Area Road;
- Ineffective public transport infrastructure – only a few people use buses and public transportation in the zone due to extended commuting times;
Some dilapidated facilities in parts of the zone, which require renovation;
Absence of free zone related benefits;
Industrial Area 6 Sharjah is optimal for business targeting UAE market and requiring central location – for trading companies, light manufacturers, auto spare parts, logistics providers, e-commerce fulfillment centers.
Where Else Can I Look For Alternatives?
However, if your business does not fit these categories, you might consider relocating your business to some other industrial destinations, such as:
- deep water ports (SAIF Zone or Sharjah Port);
- possibility of customs deferral (all kinds of free zones in Sharjah and Northern Emirates);
- more export focus – in that case, you should choose free zone;
- larger space availability.
Expert Tips for Finding a Warehouse in Industrial Area 6 Sharjah
We have compiled the list of tips which can help you find a place to rent or purchase.
Verify Landlord’s Credentials
Make sure that the landlord owns the facility and can produce his title deed to it. This will protect you from any legal disputes.
Negotiate Free Fit-Out Period
On leases with 1-year term, you will be able to get free fit-out for up to 3 months period – you should definitely take advantage of this.
Check Compatibility of Unit’s Use With Your Activity
Remember that different zones allow conducting different activities. Before choosing any facility, you should inquire at SEDD for permission to conduct certain business.
Consult an Experienced Real Estate Agent
It is much better to rely on advice of experienced real estate agent because he will be able to reduce risks associated with renting or purchasing property. Moreover, you can find off-market properties.
Plan Visa Quota in Advance
The number of visas you will be allowed to sponsor depends on area size of your facility – make sure that your property is sufficiently large for your visa quota.
Budget Additional Expenses
You should allocate additional funds to pay for various fees – such as municipality fees, Civil Defense, fit-out works, signs and banners, SEWA connection fee, and so on. These expenses constitute 15-25% of initial investment.
Carefully Review Contract Details
Most commercial lease contracts are bilingual (Arabic and English) – so you should carefully examine all details in the document before signing it. If any discrepancy appears between Arabic and English versions, then the Arabic version prevails.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where Is IA6 Located?
IA6 is located in the central-western industrial belt of Sharjah, UAE, accessible via Industrial Area Road and approximately 15 minutes away from Sharjah city center. Connection to Emirates Road (E611) gives easy access to Dubai and other Northern Emirates.
What Are Typical Rent Prices for Warehouses in IA6?
Typical rent prices for industrial units in IA6 start from AED 15 and go up to AED 40 per square foot per year. Logistic units with dock levellers cost more (up to AED 50 per sq ft). To find exact figures, please refer to Property Finder or Bayut websites.
Can Foreign Nationals Own Businesses in IA6?
Yes, they can – according to the law introduced after 2021, foreign nationals are no longer dependent on local sponsors to own businesses on the mainland in Sharjah.
What Kinds of Businesses Are Allowed in IA6?
IA6 houses different business – for example, light manufacturers, general traders, auto spare parts traders, food processors, print media producers, warehousing/logistic providers, building materials suppliers, etc. Every kind of activity requires special permissions.
How Does IA6 Differ From Free Zones of Sharjah?
They are different in many ways. For example, free zones are characterized by customs deferral services, while mainland is characterized by unrestricted market access. So, these two are different in terms of opportunities.
Conclusion:
One thing is evident after exploring what this area has to offer: Industrial Area 6 Sharjah UAE is among the most comprehensive, reasonably priced, and well-positioned industrial destinations in the whole UAE.
You receive a sophisticated, well-connected location. Your company has financial breathing room thanks to your competitive leasing rates. You are granted complete freedom to trade throughout the UAE’s mainland. Additionally, you keep 100% of everything you create because of the 2021 ownership amendments.
Readers Must Love To Read This: Mussafah Bus Station
