Sharjah Introduces World's First AI-Issued Trade License

Sharjah has introduced the world's first trade license entirely processed through artificial intelligence (AI). This innovative move allows entrepreneurs and investors to complete the entire licensing process in under five minutes, making it faster and easier than ever before.

The new AI service will be available at the Sharjah Investor Services Center (Saeed) and SPC Free Zone, allowing people to get their trade licenses in under five minutes. Soon, this service will be available in other free zones across Sharjah, WAM reported.

This makes Invest in Sharjah the first agency in the world to use AI for issuing trade licenses, showing its dedication to encouraging investment and cooperation between local and international markets.

SPC Free Zone, an initiative of the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), is also leading the way by being the first free zone to use AI for licensing, changing the way businesses are started in the region.

The initiative was launched in the presence of Sheikh Abdullah bin Salem bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, and Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), the Sharjah FDI Office (Invest in Sharjah), Microsoft, and Sharjah Publishing City (SPC) Free Zone at Sharjah Investment Forum (SIF 2024).

Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA); Mohamed Juma Al Musharrkh, CEO of Invest in Sharjah; and Naim Yazbeck, General Manager of Microsoft UAE, were also present at the launch.

"This agreement marks a transformative leap in Sharjah's already attractive investment environment, positioning the emirate ever more strongly as a leading global destination for future-focused, innovative, and sustainable investments," Al Musharrkh said.

"By integrating AI technology, we are redefining an investment-friendly infrastructure, ensuring Sharjah stays ahead in attracting local and international businesses. Our new service sets a new benchmark for the global shift toward automating business processes and harnessing AI advancements," he added.

Yazbeck, on his part, said that AI technology is changing how business is done in Sharjah, explaining that using AI makes operations more efficient and promotes innovation, which helps boost economic growth and draw international investments.

He believes this forward-thinking approach makes Sharjah a top destination for sustainable and future-oriented business practices.