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SEDD announced in its report for the first half of 2026 the most significant developments and events in the economic sectors, along with the measures and efforts undertaken by the department across all sectors and activities. This comprehensive tool aims to provide stakeholders in the emirate's economic sectors with a complete overview, highlighting the most important results achieved. This underscores the department's commitment to achieving balanced and sustainable economic performance and enhancing business continuity across various sectors.
According to data released by the Department during the first half of this year, the total number of business licenses issued and renewed in Sharjah reached 38,169, representing a 2% increase compared to the same period last year. The number of new licenses issued reached 4,597, a 5% increase during this period in 2026, while the number of renewed licenses reached 33,572, also a 2% increase compared to the same period last year.
Regarding the distribution of licenses issued by type, commercial licenses reached 2,514, followed by professional licenses with 1,407, then industrial licenses with 276, accreditation licenses with 233, and e-commerce licenses with 167.
As for licenses renewed in the first half of 2026, 21,619 commercial licenses were renewed, followed by 9,479 professional licenses, then 1,854 industrial licenses. Accreditation licenses came in fourth with 413, while e-commerce licenses totaled 207, representing a 52% increase compared to the first half of the previous year.
According to the geographical distribution of licenses issued during the first half of this year by branch, the main branch issued 2,156 licenses, followed by the Industrial Branch with 1,492, then the Central Region Branch with 484. The Khorfakkan branch issued 271 licenses, while the Kalba branch issued 157, and the Dibba Al Hisn branch issued 37.
Regarding renewed business licenses by branch, the Industrial Area branch topped the list with approximately 14,989 licenses, followed by the Head Office with 12,675, the Central Region branch with 3,279, the Khorfakkan branch with 1,342, the Kalba branch with 1,051, and the Dibba Al Hisn branch with 236.
SEDD is committed to working with traders and consumers to establish a fair relationship between the two parties. The department communicates with consumers in Sharjah's markets through all available channels to raise awareness and inform them of their fundamental rights. This is achieved through online platforms, websites, and ongoing field visits. The total number of commercial control transactions during the first half of 2026 reached 90,106.
The total number of commercial protection complaints reached 12,429 during the first half of this year. Consumer protection complaints accounted for the largest share at 11,134, followed by commercial fraud complaints at 795, while service agent complaints numbered 500.
Commenting on this, His Excellency Hamad Ali Abdullah Al Mahmoud, Chairman of SEDD and Member of Sharjah Executive Council, stated that economic indicators confirm the continued investment momentum and sustainable growth witnessed by the Emirate. He pointed out that these results reflect the confidence of the business community and investors in the promising economic opportunities that Sharjah offers across various sectors. He emphasised that Sharjah's economy demonstrated exceptional resilience and a high capacity for growth during the first half of this year, even amidst surrounding geopolitical tensions and regional challenges. He affirmed that the Emirate has successfully transformed challenges into genuine opportunities for growth, thanks to its diversified economy, advanced infrastructure, and the ongoing development and construction projects in various cities across the Emirate.
His Excellency added that the Emirate continues to solidify its position as one of the leading investment destinations in the region, based on a diversified economy, supportive growth policies, an effective partnership between the public and private sectors, and the continuous development of legislation and services that stimulate the business environment.
His Excellency also noted that the performance indicators issued by SEDD confirm the continued sustainable growth of business sectors, in line with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and the follow-up of His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, and Chairman of the Executive Council, aimed at elevating the economic system and enhancing its capacity for continued growth.
His Excellency added that data reflects a significant increase in investment activity, which reinforces confidence in the strength of the emirate's economy. He pointed out that the department relies on these indicators to evaluate economic performance and formulate future plans. He emphasised the ongoing work to develop government services in line with global best practices by expediting procedures and facilitating the investor journey. He highlighted the launch of a trade name reservation service using artificial intelligence technologies, in addition to the "Instant License" service, which allows for the issuance of trade licenses within the first year without the need to attach the articles of incorporation or lease agreement.
For his part, His Excellency Fahad Ahmed Al Khumairi, Director of SEDD, stated that the results for the first half of this year reflect the strength of the local economy and the emirate's attractiveness for investments, and confirms the continued confidence of the business community in the opportunities available across various sectors.
His Excellency Al Khumairi added that the department continues to implement initiatives and programs aimed at enhancing the business environment and supporting economic development by adopting the latest digital technologies, developing smart services, implementing government accelerators, and adhering to the highest standards of quality and business continuity, thus ensuring the provision of advanced digital services that meet the aspirations of investors and entrepreneurs.
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