
SEDD launches ‘Instant Licence' service
Sharjah Economic Development Department (SEDD) has launched an 'Instant Licence' service in order to promote investments and attract investors to the Emirate.
This service was launched after obtaining the approval from the Sharjah Executive Council with the aim of enabling investors and entrepreneurs to issue a commercial licence immediately without the need to attach the Memorandum of Association or a signed lease contract in the first year.
Additionally, the licence enables investors to conduct their business immediately, with the aim of speeding up and reducing procedures, shortening the customer journey, and increasing economic growth rates in Sharjah.
The service covers all office activities that do not require approvals from other authorities, with a maximum of three employees allowed per licence.
It helps investors to run their activities or businesses in the first year, and then fulfills the special licensing requirements in the second year. Also, it targets new investors and economic establishments seeking to expand into specific types of activities and contributes to increasing the competitiveness of Sharjah.
Through the "Instant Licence" service, SEDD seeks to enable companies to fully benefit from the competitive advantages offered by the emirate and to stimulate the business environment. SEDD is the government entity entrusted with regulating economic activity in the emirate and supporting the process of economic diversification, sustainable growth, and competitiveness. Thus, the Economic Department in Sharjah focuses on facilitating business operations, which contributes to anticipating and creating a better future, developing the investment environment, enhancing the attractiveness of strategic economic sectors, and providing high-quality services in accordance with the highest international standards.
Commenting on this, Hamad Ali Abdalla Al Mahmoud, SEDD Chairman, stated that the Department works continuously to develop a legislative and regulatory environment to enhance business growth and support its continuity and sustainability in accordance with international best practices. Such a thing falls within the wise directives of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah and the pursuit of H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and Chairman of the Executive Council.
He clarified that this will enhance the growth of Sharjah's economy and support its competitiveness regionally and globally.
Moreover, SEDD Chairman proclaimed that the 'Instant Licence' service is part of the Department's Strategy, which aims to support economic diversification and sustainable growth in the emirate.
It also contributes to supporting investors by facilitating the ease and speed of establishing their businesses. This reflects Sharjah's commitment to the continuous development of the business system and consolidating the emirate's position as a global investment hub.
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Al Etihad
an hour ago
- Al Etihad
Dubai pioneers the future of mobility with region's first test flight of Joby Aerial Taxi
30 June 2025 15:30 DUBAI (ALETIHAD)In a significant stride towards introducing Aerial Taxi services, Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), in cooperation with Joby Aviation, a leading developer of electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft, announced the region's first successful test flight of the Joby Aerial test flight was conducted at a designated desert test site in on this milestone, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, UAE Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, said: 'Dubai continues to lead the way in shaping the future of mobility, guided by the strategic vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai."This achievement also reflects our commitment to placing the UAE at the forefront of transformative technologies that drive global progress. Further, the successful aerial taxi test flight demonstrates our determination to transform breakthrough technologies into practical solutions that enhance quality of life and set new international benchmarks for urban development.' His Highness added: 'As we work to realise the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, within the framework of the UAE's sustainable development vision, the integration of aerial mobility into our transport ecosystem is a step towards ensuring the city's infrastructure is built around the needs of future generations. Our initiatives aim to make life easier for people, creating new opportunities, and reinforcing Dubai's position as the best city in the world to live, work, and visit.' The test flight was witnessed by Mattar Al Tayer, Director General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority; Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General, General Civil Aviation Authority; Ahmed Ali Al Balqeizi, Executive Director of the Aviation Safety and Environment Sector – Dubai Civil Aviation Authority; and Ibrahim Hussain Ahli, Executive Director – Dubai Air Navigation launch of the aerial taxi's first test flight, the first of its kind in the region, was part of a series of daily test operations aimed at evaluating the aircraft's performance within the local environment, in preparation for the commercial rollout of urban air mobility Joby aerial taxi is distinguished by its vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) capability. It is a sustainable, environmentally friendly vehicle powered entirely by electricity, generating zero operating emissions. Designed with a focus on safety, comfort, and speed, the aircraft incorporates the latest advancements in global aviation design features six rotors and four battery packs, enabling it to achieve a flight range of up to 160 km and a maximum speed of 320 km/ aerial taxi accommodates four passengers in addition to the pilot and operates at significantly lower noise levels compared to conventional helicopters. Thanks to its VTOL functionality, the aircraft is ideally suited for urban environments, requiring minimal horizontal space for take-off and landing at vertiports. Test FacilitiesThe dignitaries reviewed the test facilities developed in collaboration with Shamal Holding. These facilities include a dedicated vertiport for aerial vehicles, a hangar equipped with state-of-the-art systems for flight monitoring and tracking of the Aerial Taxi, and the latest electric charging technologies. The dignitaries received a briefing from Mr. JoeBen Bevirt, Founder and CEO of Joby Aviation, and Ahmed Hashim Bahrozyan, CEO of the Public Transport Agency, on the project timeline and upcoming year 2026 will mark the launch of aerial taxi station operations near Dubai International Airport, during which the inaugural commercial aerial taxi flight is scheduled to take place. Smooth and Fast MobilityMattar Al Tayer, Director General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) said: 'The launch of the air taxi's trial operation reflects the leadership's vision to advance sustainable and innovative mobility across all public and shared transport modes. It underscores Dubai's commitment to keeping pace with rapid global transformations and developing future-ready solutions to emerging mobility challenges. 'The aerial taxi will introduce a new premium service for residents and visitors seeking smooth, fast, and safe travel to key destinations across the city. A journey from Dubai International Airport to Palm Jumeirah, for example, is expected to take just 12 minutes, compared to approximately 45 minutes by car."The service will also strengthen integration with public transport systems and individual mobility options such as e-scooters and bicycles, enabling seamless multimodal travel and enhanced connectivity across the city, ensuring a smooth and convenient experience for all passengers.' Strategic PartnershipsFor his part, JoeBen Bevirt, Founder and CEO of Joby Aviation, said: 'Dubai serves as a launchpad for a global revolution in mobility, and flying our aircraft here represents a pivotal step towards integrating aerial taxi services into the fabric of daily life around the world.' He added: 'Thanks to our forward-looking strategic partnership with Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority, we are helping shape a future where clean and quiet aviation becomes the new norm. At the same time, we are proud to reinforce the global presence of American innovation.'This achievement is the result of close collaboration and a strong relationship between Joby and the Roads and Transport Authority. It underscores the company's leading role in shaping the future of mobility and reaffirms the UAE's global leadership in adopting advanced air mobility solutions.' Service Launch AgreementAt the beginning of 2024, Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority signed an agreement to launch the Aerial Taxi service in collaboration with the General Civil Aviation Authority, the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Skyports Infrastructure—a leading British company in the development of advanced air mobility infrastructure—and Joby Aviation. The agreement positions Dubai as the first city in the world to offer urban air mobility through an advanced network of vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) infrastructure for aerial ability to commence operational testing in Dubai reflects the culmination of two years of flight trials in hot-weather conditions at Edwards Air Force Base in the United States, in addition to rigorous testing that demonstrates operational vision is built on a foundation of over 15 years of engineering excellence, more than 40,000 miles of test flights, and multiple successful piloted transition flights, along with the simultaneous operation of several aircraft. The achievements reinforce the company's momentum toward realising its goal of making clean, quiet, fast, and affordable aerial mobility an everyday reality.


TAG 91.1
4 hours ago
- TAG 91.1
Dubai completes region's first test flight of Air Taxi
His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai's Crown Prince, on Monday announced the successful first test flight of Joby air taxi in the region, marking "a major step towards launching full operations next year". In a post on social media platform X, Sheikh Hamdan, who also holds the position of the UAE's Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister, said it is a "a new leap in eco-friendly urban mobility". The test flight was conducted through a collaboration between Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and Joby Aviation. "The all-electric aerial taxi represents a new leap in eco-friendly urban mobility - reducing travel times, enhancing quality of life and advancing sustainable development," Sheikh Hamdan added. "This pioneering initiative is part of the UAE's broader vision to lead the world in innovation and the deployment of advanced technologies. "Our nation's skies have opened to new possibilities, and the best is yet to come," he added. Dubai has successfully completed the region's first test flight of the Joby Aerial Taxi. Conducted through a collaboration between the Roads and Transport Authority and Joby Aviation, the test flight marks a major step toward launching full operations next year. The all-electric… — Hamdan bin Mohammed (@HamdanMohammed) June 30, 2025


Gulf Today
5 hours ago
- Gulf Today
Maktoum Bin Mohammed reviews Ministry of Finance's 2024 report
Sheikh Maktoum Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, reviewed the 2024 annual report of the Ministry of Finance (MoF) titled 'Financial Sustainability and Global Leadership.' The report documents the MoF's key achievements, standout financial data and national initiatives as well as projects undertaken by the ministry throughout the year. It also highlights positive outcomes of the ministry's regional and international engagements, showcasing the role it plays in reinforcing the UAE's position as a leading player within the global financial and economic landscape. The report was reviewed during a meeting chaired by Sheikh Maktoum at the ministry's office in Dubai. Present during the meeting were Mohamed bin Hadi Al Hussaini, Minister of State for Financial Affairs; Younis Haji AlKhoori, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Finance; as well as Assistant Undersecretaries and senior officials from the ministry. Sheikh Maktoum emphasised that in a world where changes are unfolding faster than ever with new economic challenges emerging every day, the UAE stands out as an attractive and leading hub for stability and growth thanks to the country's leadership, which has always placed emphasis on a forward-looking vision and adaptability to global shifts as the foundational elements of its development journey. Sheikh Maktoum stated: 'In line with the vision of President Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the UAE is committed to building an integrated economic system that promotes diversification and continuous development, with people at the heart of the process, as its primary driving force.' He added: 'The Ministry of Finance has made significant progress in boosting governmental fiscal management and enhancing its contribution to the national economy through proactive financial policies that promote sustainable growth. In 2024, it took strategic steps to realise the leadership's aspirations and enhance the UAE's global reputation.' Sheikh Maktoum stressed that the continued success of the UAE's dirham-denominated government T-bond issuance programme and Islamic T-sukuk issuance programme reaffirms the ministry's keenness to develop innovative financing solutions that bolster the national economy and reinforce the UAE's position as a leading global hub for financial investment. These programmes, he noted, demonstrate the country's ability to respond to market needs while ensuring financial liquidity in a balanced and sustainable way. He also pointed out that the consistent sovereign credit ratings accorded to the UAE by international agencies such as Fitch and Moody's is a testament to the country's economic stability and the global confidence in its financial policies. Such ratings serve as key indicators of the UAE's capability to meet its financial obligations, further solidifying its appeal as a secure and stable investment hub. Sheikh Maktoum said that the ministry continues to play a key role on the global stage in shaping international financial policies, actively participating in G20 and BRICS summits as well as meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank. 'Our participation in such events goes beyond just being present to making a tangible impact, contributing to shaping the global financial agenda and reinforcing the UAE's position as a key player in the international financial system. Through these platforms, the UAE seeks to map out innovative strategies to address global economic challenges and fosters international cooperation to advance sustainable development goals,' Sheikh Maktoum added. Mohamed Bin Hadi Al Hussaini, Minister of State for Financial Affairs, emphasised that the Ministry of Finance continues to remain at the forefront among government entities promoting excellence and innovation across their operations. Al Hussaini added that the ministry will continue to play a fundamental role in driving sustainable economic development, in line with the UAE's ambitious vision to be among the world's most developed nations, as outlined in the UAE Centennial 2071 vision. 'As global economic challenges continue to grow, the need has emerged for a comprehensive framework of policies and procedures aligned with international best practices to keep pace with these changes. Throughout 2024, the ministry achieved a series of remarkable milestones, successfully implementing innovative strategies that strengthened the country's position both regionally and internationally,' he added. He added that such achievements include key initiatives to promote the sustainable management of financial resources, and comprehensive policies on asset management, inventory, and leasing within the federal government, as well as efforts to enhance overall resource efficiency. The Ministry has made significant progress in maximising the value and impact of public assets. Building on these foundations, the ministry has intensified its efforts to boost transparency and accountability in financial operations while simultaneously demonstrating exceptional performance in its journey toward comprehensive digital transformation, in line with the UAE Digital Government Strategy 2025 and the 'We the UAE 2031' vision, His Excellency Al Hussaini said. He emphasised that the ministry is making steady progress towards fulfilling the vision of the leadership to build a sustainable and diversified national economy. Over the course of 2024, the Ministry of Finance achieved a series of significant milestones, as part of its strategic objectives to establish a comprehensive financial system driven by innovative policies and forward-looking programmes. The ministry's report also highlighted the sustained success of the Islamic T-Sukuk issuance programme, denominated in UAE dirhams. Since its launch in May 2023, the programme recorded successful outcomes across all 14 auctions conducted until the end of 2024, reaching a record issuance size of Dhs1.1 billion and a total nominal value of Dhs17.1 billion. In terms of public debt management, the report noted that the total outstanding domestic public debt reached Dhs23.45 billion by the end of 2024. This includes an outstanding balance of Dhs6.35 billion under the government treasury bond programme following the repayment of the first tranche of two-year bonds valued at Dhs4.85 billion and Dhs17.1 billion under the Islamic Treasury Sukuk programme. The report highlighted that 2024 was a landmark year for upgrading the UAE's legislative and financial framework. It featured a series of major developments, from approving the federal general budget and adopting the 2023 consolidated financial statements to introducing major updates to anti-money laundering and tax laws aimed at improving compliance. Additionally, several decisions were issued concerning leasing policies, inventory systems, and fixed asset management. As part of its commitment to revenue diversification and fiscal sustainability, the report outlined the ministry's continued efforts to develop forward-looking fiscal policies aimed at improving the efficiency of government spending, achieving a sustainable fiscal balance, and supporting strategic investment in economically vital sectors. Highlighting the UAE's journey toward digital transformation, the report noted that the Ministry of Finance launched a series of advanced digital initiatives designed to boost the efficiency of financial operations, transparency, and accelerated service delivery. From providing integrated solutions for managing government financial resources to adopting artificial intelligence and data analytics in shaping future fiscal policies and expanding digital services for investors and entrepreneurs to providing a more agile business environment, the ministry has made significant strides in every aspect. In addition to streamlining procedures and reducing bureaucracy, these efforts have resulted in greater efficiency and transparency. The ministry's digital transformation also led to the development of '2.0' services that proactively address customer needs and consistently exceed expectations. The annual report also sheds light on the ministry's growing global presence, referring to its success in promoting regional and international partnerships throughout 2024. By actively participating in the G20 and BRICS and engaging in high-level meetings with the International Monetary Fund and World Bank, the UAE played a vital role in shaping global financial policies. The ministry also contributed to improving cooperation on sustainable finance and investment and signed a series of international agreements aimed at improving investment flows and facilitating global trade. The annual report also documented the UAE government's efforts to boost the country's global competitiveness. By the end of 2024, the total number of agreements to avoid double taxation on income reached 146, while the number of investment protection and promotion agreements rose to 116. These milestones reflect the country's commitment to enhancing financial stability and supporting a thriving business environment. The report also outlined the Ministry of Finance's forward-looking vision to sustain financial excellence by embracing cutting-edge financial technologies, reinforcing the sustainability of revenues, and deepening international partnerships. These priorities were designed in line with the objectives of the 'We the UAE 2031' vision to further solidify the country's position as a globally recognised hub for finance and investment. WAM